Projects we’re working on

Here are some of the projects we’re working on…

Normal to be different

Normal to be different is our new project for Young People. We strongly believe that Young People can create change when they are given the space to use their voices. NTBD will create the space for them to speak out about what they are passionate about in regard to wanting things to be different in areas such as education, employment, housing, entertainment, family, and relationships. Right now we want you to share pictures of how you feel about schools, colleges, universities, homeschooling, however, you learn - just send them to info@autismandadhd.org, and we will begin to share them.

Radiology Association

We are working in partnership with the University of Suffolk and the Radiology Association to research the experiences of children with Autism accessing X-Ray departments and what they feel needs to be changed in order to make their experience less scary. We have been interviewing children and their parents/carers over the past few months and the data is currently collated for us to be able to present at their annual conference with a view to change practice and communication.

Specialist Autism Education Provision in Norfolk

We are working with the Architects and Senior Leadership Team of this new School to advise on the environment and equipment in relation to the sensory needs of their pupils and staff. This has included looking at colours, textures, furniture, lighting, noise, signage, and equipment needed to ensure everyone has access to safe and calming experiences in School.

We have also carried out Environment Assessments for other Schools and Business premises across the Eastern Region in relation to changes that can be made to support students and employees in this area.

UPDATE June 2022:

A while ago now, we advised SENDAT on the colours and design for the interior of what was going to be a new Autism specific School in Norfolk. Today, I was privileged to be at the opening on the Duke of Lancaster 4 key stage School and it is amazing. The unveiling almost made me cry.

It is completely soundproof, each key stage area is a different pastel colour alongside magnolia. This way, the colours are allowing the children to identify which part of the school they are in without it being too overwhelming.

There are very few items hanging on walls, no clutter anywhere due to the huge amount of storage cupboards that have been provided. There are lockers in each classroom for children’s possessions, keeping them off floors and walls.

The desks are all height adjustable as are the learning screens. Lights can be zoned and the amount of natural light is beautiful. Each classroom has its own break out space with proper walls and doors so again it is soundproof. There are smaller break out and sensory spaces throughout the school which aid transition.

The green space outside is beautiful and the parents room is just inside the front door and is linked to the HT office so the children cannot see their parents come and go. Even the staff room is a haven of calm, with their own work space, so they also get proper time out.

They even have a therapy Guinea Pig. 💜

Talk about setting new standards - this is the future for all schools people, may it come quickly!

Northampton Saints

We visited the ground of Northampton Saints last year to advise them on how they could develop a sensory safe space in their stands for children and adults to be able to watch the game in a less overwhelming environment. They are now exploring options as to how this could be achieved.