Neurodiversity and autism-friendly days out in the West Midlands

At the AoC Trust in Dudley, we understand that the summer is often a chance to relax, spend time with family and friends, and explore. But for some, the busy summer period can be triggering, with lots of people, noise, and heat – a bit of a sensory overload.

But did you know that there are a lot of companies in the West Midlands offering quieter times and spaces for those who are neuro-diverse, including people with autism?

As a West Midlands-based business, we’re happy to share some of the considerate companies in the local area that you or your loved ones can visit. We believe that everyone has the right to join in with the fun and beauty the Midlands has to offer.

Venue	Details
BMAG in Birmingham	If you’re an adult or child on the autistic spectrum or with other special needs and would prefer a quieter visit to Birmingham’s museums, join one of the Morning Explorers sessions. BMAG museums will open early for you and your family to explore in a quiet and welcoming environment. Held on selected dates for each BMAG venue. Places must be pre-booked by calling 0121 348 8263 https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag/whats-on/morning-explorers-97a5a22e-aad8-449d-9d43-d2205bb8ae79
Boing Zone	Sundays from 4:30 pm to 5:30 pm will be quieter. https://www.boingzone.co.uk/special-needs/
Cadbury World	Cadbury World is committed to creating a welcoming environment for visitors and is delighted to be able to offer relaxed SEN Sessions for guests on selected dates and times. These sessions are designed to be of benefit to visitors who prefer a quieter and calmer experience, such as those with autism or SEN needs. www.cadburyworld.co.uk/plan-your-visit/relaxedsensessions
Edgbaston cricket ground	Edgbaston cricket ground has a sensory room to watch matches in a quieter environment. Click here for more information.
Inflatanation	Inflatanation has specific sessions with a difference where the number of participants is halved, the music is turned down, a parent/carer can enter the arena FREE of charge with every participant, and there is complimentary juice and biscuits for all participants following the session. Click here to learn more.
National Sea Life Centre	On selected dates, they’re opening their doors an hour early, with limited tickets available, to provide a quieter SEA LIFE experience that aims to provide a more comfortable visit for those with autism and other sensory requirements. www.visitsealife.com/birmingham/discover/quiet-at-the-aquarium
Odeon Cinema	Quiet and subtitle films.www.odeon.co.uk
Scallywags in Brierley Hill	Scallywags has sensory sessions for autism on set dates. Call for more information on 01384 77004.
West Bromwich Albion	The safe space, located in the West Stand at The Hawthorns, has been designed to offer children on the autism spectrum the opportunity to watch a football match from an appropriate environment, providing a pathway to enjoying future games from the stands.

And even if it’s simply day-to-day tasks like shopping, there are places and times that offer a quieter and more sensory-conscious environment.

Connexions Dudley also has a comprehensive list of places, clubs, and activities for those with different disabilities here. Some of them include Crystal Leisure Centre, Sycamore Adventure, and drama/dance groups in the area.

Venue	Details
Entertainer Toy Shop	The first hour after opening every Saturday will be quieter at The Entertainer. Please check days/times before visiting.
Home Bargains	The first hour after opening every Saturday will be quieter at Home Bargains. Please check days/times before visiting.
Lidl	Tuesday between 6 pm and 8 pm. Please check days/times before visiting.
M & S	M & S have a sensory Sunday, where their first trading hour is quieter. Please check days/times before visiting.
Tesco	From 9–10 am every Wednesday and Saturday, Tesco has a quiet hour in all stores. They also reduce the lighting in large stores. https://www.tesco.com/zones/invisibledisability Please check days/times before visiting.