National Sensory Network

Understanding Sensory Inclusivity

Sensory inclusivity means designing environments and experiences that consider the varied sensory needs of individuals. 

Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives, organises, and responds to sensory input. Certain stimuli can be overwhelming or distressing for some individuals with sensory processing differences, leading to heightened anxiety, discomfort, or behavioural challenges. Common sensory triggers include bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, and certain textures. 

Sensory processing differences can also involve challenges in planning and carrying out movement, which can make it hard for an individual to perform coordinated actions. 

By addressing sensory needs, we can create spaces that are accessible, welcoming and comfortable for everyone.

Sensory Street Project

The Sensory Street Project was established in response to a UK Government National Strategy for Autistic Children, Young People and Adults: 2021 to 2026, which highlighted that autistic people can feel excluded from public spaces because of the impact of challenging sensory inputs and negative reactions from staff or members of the public.

Sensory Street published research into exactly what sensory aspects of public spaces were enabling or disabling for autistic individuals. You can read their findings here: “It Is a Big Spider Web of Things”: Sensory Experiences of Autistic Adults in Public Spaces. In summary, Sensory Street found that:

• Supermarkets, eateries (i.e., restaurants, cafés, pubs), highstreets and city/town centres, public transport, healthcare settings (i.e., doctor's surgeries and hospitals), and retail shops and shopping centres, were most often mentioned as being disabling sensory environments.
• Outdoor spaces, retail shops, museums, concert venues/clubs, cinemas/theatres, and stadiums were most often talked about as being less disabling sensory environments. 

The authors identified principles that can make these environments either disabling or enabling. These included:

• Sensoryscape or the `sensory landscape' (sensory burden, sustained and inescapable input, uncontrollable environment);
• Space (busy and crowded, confined the built environment is);
• Predictably (lack of information, inconsistent and unfamiliar, and uncertainty);
• Understanding (unsupportive people, misunderstanding and judgement);
• Adjustments (suitable adjustments, pace pressures, inflexible communication); and 
• Recovery (space to escape, unable to recover and prepare).

The Sensory Street Project actively worked to engage the public in their research and findings, including setting up The Sensory Supermarket experience. 

The Sensory Supermarket Experience

Using feedback from focus groups, the Sensory Street Project set up an immersive experience where participants walked through a supermarket setting. They experienced disabling sensory experiences including bright lights and lots of noise, and then a second walkthrough where those sensory elements were dialled down. You can watch videos of feedback from participants in the Sensory Supermarket here.

You can read more about the resulting recommendations in this Sensory-inclusive Supermarkets e-guide, which includes tips for managers and staff on making retail venues more sensory-friendly.

The Sensory Friendly Inpatient Environment Project 

The Sensory Friendly Inpatient Environments project’s ultimate aim was to improve individuals' experience on inpatient mental health wards. The project raised awareness of the sensory needs of all individuals on mental health wards through a programme of staff education and environmental modifications. 

Design for the Mind – Neurodiversity and the built environment – Guide

The British Standards Institute has produced a very helpful set of guidelines for organisations to consider when commissioning and designing buildings and public spaces. The guidance stresses the importance of early consultation with individuals representing various different sensory profiles as it is easier to identify accommodations at the concept stage rather than retrospectively applying them. 

As well as the more obvious sensory aspects of sound, lighting, temperature and smells, the guidance highlights to need to consider differing needs for personal space:

“People can have very different requirements for personal and social space (proxemics), which might be for culture/ethnicity/neurological reasons. Lack of space can cause anxiety or tension in certain situations for everyone, but some people may experience a much higher level of anxiety, such as people with misophonia, dyspraxia and/or autism. Where a larger personal space is required, this can be challenging in crowded spaces, potentially resulting in anxiety and poor wellbeing, distress or overload.”

The guidance includes specific advice for a wide range of spaces including hotels, schools, museums and sports venues. The guidance notes: “Thoughtful design and management can create places where everyone can flourish equally, and people are provided with an equal opportunity to work, live, and socialize comfortably.” 

The Benefits of a Sensory Inclusive Society

Creating a sensory inclusive society offers wide-ranging benefits:

• Improved Quality of Life: Individuals with sensory processing differences can lead more comfortable, fulfilling lives.
• Increased Participation: More people can engage in community activities, work, and education, enriching society as a whole.
• Enhanced Understanding: Greater awareness and acceptance of neurodiversity promote a more compassionate and cohesive community.

Conclusion

Designing a sensory inclusive society is a multifaceted endeavour that requires collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to inclusivity. By addressing the sensory needs of all individuals, we can create environments and experiences that are accessible, welcoming, and supportive. This not only benefits those with sensory processing differences but also enriches our communities, making them more diverse, vibrant, and resilient.

As we move towards a more sensory inclusive society, it is essential to keep listening, learning, and adapting. Through collective effort and a shared vision, we can build a future where everyone feels valued and empowered to participate fully in all aspects of life.