Research the venue

• Visit the venue’s official website:

  • Most venues provide detailed seating maps, as well as information on entry and exit points. You may also find descriptions of accessible facilities, including any areas designated for sensory breaks or quiet spaces. This is often the most direct way to familiarize yourself with the venue's layout and amenities.

• Check for accessibility guides on the venue’s website:

  • Many venues offer downloadable PDFs or specific guides outlining accessibility features, including sensory-friendly spaces, quiet rooms, and accessible seating options. These guides can be incredibly helpful for planning and ensuring that any necessary accommodations are available.

• Take advantage of virtual tours or video walk-throughs:

  • Some venues will offer virtual tours or video walk-throughs. Virtual tours allow you to see the venue’s layout, helping you to identify key locations like entrances, exits, seating sections, and quieter areas in advance.

• Consider contacting the venue's customer service team for specific questions:

  • Many venues have staff dedicated to accessibility who can offer personalised insights into sensory-friendly areas, seating arrangements, or strategies for navigating crowd flow. These representatives can also address any specific concerns you may have.

• Seek out fan reviews or visit fan forums:

  • Fans often share first-hand experiences and practical tips on sites like TripAdvisor or Reddit. These reviews can offer insights into the best seating options for comfort, quieter areas, and other useful tips on moving around the venue.

• Check the venue’s social media pages:

  • Some venues post updates on new accessibility features or layout changes, which can be useful to know before your visit. By gathering information in advance, you can better plan your visit and feel more comfortable and prepared on the day of the event.

Create a packing checklist

• Create your list ahead of time:

  • Creating a packing list in advance not only lets you reflect and add items as you remember them but also provides a useful tool you can keep and update for future events.

• Consider your sensory needs:

  • This might include items like earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to reduce noise levels, as well as sunglasses to manage sensitivity to bright lights. If you find comfort in weighted items, such as a lap pad or blanket, it can also be helpful to bring one along.

• Pack comfort items:

  • For example, fidget tools, stress balls, or handheld devices can be invaluable for staying calm and focused. These items offer tactile feedback, which can be grounding in stimulating environments. Including a favourite item that provides comfort or distraction can also help manage stress during the event.

• Add snacks and water to your checklist:

  • This is especially important for long events or those where food options may be limited. Non-perishable snacks, along with water or electrolyte packets, ensure you have quick access to energy and hydration when needed.

• Bring assistive technology if you use it:

  • Such as communication boards or mobile apps. Make sure to pack chargers for any devices and consider bringing a portable power bank so you can stay connected or utilise apps as needed throughout the day.

• Include personal care supplies

  • Like hand sanitiser, tissues, and any necessary medications are useful items to include. For those who benefit from sensory-friendly toiletries, consider packing a scented lotion or similar items for added comfort. If you have specific accessibility needs, bringing an ID card that explains these requirements can also help make interactions smoother.

• Consider keeping and updating your list for future events:

  • Having a permanent packing checklist that can be added to and amended over time ensures that you’re always prepared and reduces stress when packing for new occasions. By saving your checklist and adapting it as your needs evolve, you’ll have a reliable, go-to resource that simplifies your preparation for every event, no matter the location or setting.

Organise your schedule

• Determine event timings:

  • Begin by gathering information about the event’s start and end times, as well as any specific activities, performances, or sessions that are essential to your plan. This foundational knowledge will help you create a framework for your day.

• Plan your arrival:

  • Establish a flexible arrival time that allows for potential delays. Consider arriving earlier than necessary to give yourself ample time to get settled and acclimate to the environment without feeling rushed. This approach can help ease any initial anxiety you may have.

• Schedule breaks:

  • Determine how long you might need for these breaks and identify suitable locations within the venue where you can step away from the crowd and recharge. This strategy can help you manage sensory overload and maintain your comfort throughout the event.

• Be flexible with timings:

  • Acknowledge that things may not go exactly as planned and build in extra time for transitions. Remain adaptable if certain activities take longer than expected or if you find that you need additional breaks.

• Set departure times:

  • Choose a time that gives you enough leeway to leave without feeling pressured. If possible, select a moment that allows you to avoid the rush, which can make your exit smoother and less stressful.

• Visualise the schedule:

  • Consider creating a timeline or checklist. Having a visual representation of your day can help you see the flow at a glance and reduce anxiety related to unexpected changes.

• Communicate your plans:

  • If you’re attending the event with others, share your schedule with them. This communication ensures everyone is on the same page and can facilitate understanding if adjustments are needed during the day. By following these steps, you can create a structured yet adaptable schedule that helps manage anxiety and enhances your overall experience at the event.

• Acclimate to the environment:

  • Arriving early helps you steer clear of the crowds and loud noise typically found at the gates. It provides the opportunity to navigate through the venue at your own pace, giving you time to acclimate to the surroundings before the event begins. This approach allows you to familiarise yourself with the space without feeling rushed, making it easier to settle in comfortably.

• Identify staff and accessibility support stations:

  • Familiarise yourself with the layout of the venue, specifically the locations of staff and accessibility support stations. Many venues provide maps on their websites that highlight these areas, or you can ask for this information at the entrance. Knowing where to find assistance can alleviate anxiety and ensure you have access to the support you may need during your visit.

• Choose your seating:

  • When selecting your seat, choose a location that allows for easy movement, such as near aisles or in quieter sections of the venue. This can be particularly beneficial if you anticipate needing to take breaks or step away from the action. Ensuring that your seat is in a comfortable area can significantly enhance your experience, making it easier to manage any sensory overload or discomfort during the event.

• Pace your own stimulation:

  • For those who are sensitive to intense environments, it’s helpful to pace your stimulation by focusing on the parts of the game or event that you find most enjoyable. This strategy can help prevent fatigue and allow you to fully engage with the aspects of the event that you love, while minimising the overwhelming stimuli that can lead to burnout.

• Manage sensory input:

  • Bring noise-cancelling headphones, earplugs, or sunglasses to help mitigate sensory overload if it occurs. These tools can provide a buffer against loud noises and bright lights, creating a more comfortable environment that allows you to enjoy the event without becoming overwhelmed.

• Take regular breaks:

  • If you start to feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to take breaks. Many venues offer designated quiet zones where you can retreat to regain your composure. If you’re unsure about where these areas are located, don’t hesitate to ask the venue staff for assistance—they're typically trained to help guests with accessibility needs.

• Feel confident to communicate in your own way:

  • Consider using visual aids or signalling cards to facilitate communication in noisy or high-stimulation environments. This can be particularly helpful if verbal communication becomes challenging in the midst of the event. Having these aids on hand can make it easier to express your needs or preferences without the added stress of noise.

• Choose supportive company:

  • When planning to attend an event, invite friends or family members who understand your needs and can provide support throughout the experience. Make sure they are aware that you may need space or breaks during the event. Having companions who are empathetic can make a significant difference, as they can help you navigate any challenging moments and ensure you feel comfortable.

• Signal when you need space:

  • Establish a pre-arranged signal with your group to indicate when you need quiet time or a break. This could be a specific gesture, phrase, or even a visual cue. Communicating your needs in advance helps alleviate any pressure to explain yourself in the moment and allows your companions to respond quickly and supportively.

• Utilise accessible social spaces:

  • If socialising is part of your event experience, take the time to identify quieter or less crowded areas for mingling. These spaces can provide a more relaxed environment for interaction, making it easier to engage without feeling overwhelmed. Before the event, you might want to ask the venue staff about designated social areas that offer a calmer atmosphere.

• Stagger you departure time:

  • To avoid the chaos of crowds leaving simultaneously, plan to depart slightly before or after the main group disperses. This approach allows you to navigate the venue and surrounding areas with greater ease, minimising stress and sensory overload. Keeping an eye on the crowd dynamics can help you determine the best time to make your exit.

• Establish a designated meeting point:

  • If you’re attending the event with others, arrange a safe meeting spot outside the venue. This strategy reduces anxiety about reuniting in busy or crowded areas and provides a clear point for everyone to gather after the event. Ensure that everyone in your group knows the meeting location and any landmarks that can help guide them there.

• Practice relaxation techniques:

  • After the event, take some time to decompress, especially if the experience was intense. Use calming techniques such as deep breathing exercises or sensory tools like fidget items or stress balls to help you relax. Finding a quiet space to unwind for a few moments can be beneficial in transitioning back to your routine and processing the day’s events.

• Provide venue feedback:

  • After attending an event, take the time to provide feedback to the venue via official feedback forms, social media, or email. Share specific observations about staff awareness, the availability of sensory-friendly spaces, and any challenges you encountered. Constructive feedback can help venues understand the needs of neurodivergent attendees and encourage them to implement necessary improvements for future events.

• Share your positive experiences:

  • If you had a particularly positive experience at a venue that demonstrated inclusivity, share your feedback with others. Use social media platforms, community groups, or word-of-mouth to spread the word. Highlighting venues that prioritise accessibility can help other neurodivergent fans feel more comfortable and empowered to attend.

• Advocate for inclusion:

  • If you feel confident doing so, take an active role in advocating for neuroinclusion within venues and sports organisations. Encourage them to consider implementing features such as sensory spaces, quiet rooms, and awareness training for staff to better support neurodivergent fans. You can start by reaching out to venue management with your ideas, participating in community discussions, or even collaborating with local advocacy groups focused on disability rights.