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Three weeks into museum lockdown and some museums and galleries are shifting their exhibition programmes online; here's six newly-launched initiatives we've been enjoying this week

The Enchanted Interior
Guildhall Art Gallery, London

A major exhibition, sadly now behind closed doors, The Enchanted Interior originally began at The Laing in Newcastle and has now moved to the apposite environment of the Guildhall who have added some of their own Victorian artworks of women depicted in enclosed, ornate interiors. Check out the bank of in -gallery images and a filmed curator tour.
http://cityoflondon.gov.uk/enchanted
Serpentine Online

The Serpentine Gallery has been an impressive online offer for some time, but right now they have upped the anti with some cool digital commissions, special broadcasts, podcasts and more.
https://www.serpentinegalleries.org/exhibitions-events/serpentine-online-watch-read-listen
Cranach: Artist & Innovator
Compton Verney

The Cranach exhibition lined up by Compton Verney promised visitors a weird and wonderful affair that paired the German Renaissance painter and printmaker's works with contemporary works that really tease out the strangeness of his art. This online version, with lots of pics, video and background essays go some way to countering the disappointment - if things should continue as they are - of missing out.
https://www.comptonverney.org.uk/cranach-artist-innovator/
Wilhelmina Barns-Graham and the Artists of St Ives
Royal West of England Academy

In Bristol, the Royal West of England Academy's Wilhelmina Barnes Graham exhibition was going to be a real doozy - but this no frills zoomable display of her paintings gives you a real sense of the power of her abstract canvasses. They've hosted them in the online shop - just in case you want to help the gallery in these troubled times by buying a print.
https://shop.rwa.org.uk/collections/wilhelmina-barns-graham-and-the-artists-of-st-ives
The Easter Story
The National Gallery

At the National Gallery they are celebrating Easter online by exploring the story of the Passion, through paintings in the Collection via this lovely online exhibition page with lots of deep links to explore the paintings further.
https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/paintings/the-easter-story
Andy Warhol
Tate Modern

The Tate website is a wonderful rabbit hole experience anyway but now they are releasing some virtual tours of their exhibitions, starting with the Andy Warhol blockbuster, followed by Aubrey Beardsley at Tate Britain which begins its online release on April 13.
https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/exhibition/andy-warhol

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Six UK art exhibitions you can explore online from home

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Three weeks into museum lockdown and some museums and galleries are shifting their exhibition programmes online; here's six newly-launched initiatives we've been enjoying this week The Enchanted Interior Guildhall Art Gallery, London A major exhibition, sadly now behind closed doors,...

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Online Art Viewing Rooms | Gallery & Exhibition Listings | GalleriesNow

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Discover and browse a range of online contemporary art viewing rooms in virtual rooms from the best galleries in the world.

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Explore online exhibitions related to the collection, artists, and other special exhibitions.

Textile and social practice artist Sonya Clark (b. 1967) is renowned for her mixed-media works that address race and visibility, explore Blackness, and redress history. This exhibition-the first survey of Clark's 25-year career-includes the artist's well-known sculptures made from black pocket combs, human hair, and thread as well as works created from flags, currency, beads, cotton plants, pencils, books, a typewriter, and a hair salon chair.

The exceptional mark-making practices in the mixed-media works and prints by Ambreen Butt (b.1969, Lahore, Pakistan) reveal the deeply personal connection between her global consciousness and the meditative, labor-intensive processes involved in her creations.

Explore the possibilities of paper in Paper Routes, the sixth installment of NMWA's exhibition series Women to Watch, showcasing the transformation of this everyday material into surprising works of art. Ranging from delicate and minute to dense and monumental, works in Paper Routes reveal the diversity of approaches and inventive paths taken by contemporary artists.

DMV Color features an eclectic assortment of contemporary books, graphic novels, photobooks, and zines by women of color with ties to the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. This exhibition includes select audio contributions from the artists discussing their work.

This exhibition features a ltered books, art objects created with existing printed books. Part of "The Book as Art," a series of online exhibitions that introduces the boundless creativity artists use to transform and reinvent books as we know them.

This exhibition features accordion books that open and close like their namesake musical instruments. Part of "The Book as Art," a series of online exhibitions that introduces the boundless creativity artists use to transform and reinvent books as we know them.

Explore an online version of Women Artists of the Dutch Golden Age, an exhibition examining the lives and works of several highly successful artists in the Netherlands during the 17th and early 18th centuries.

Colombian artist Fanny Sanín became a pioneer of the geometric abstraction movement and a key figure in modern Latin American art. Explore an exhibition that highlights her unique aesthetic of blocky, simplified shapes that evoke a sense of calm in their methodical construction.

Colette Fu creates intricate, large-scale pop-up books that depict myths and legends and illuminate little-known cultures. This online exhibition presents works from her series "Haunted Philadelphia" and "We are Tiger Dragon People."

A complement to the exhibition Picturing Mary: Woman, Mother, Idea, this online exhibition looks at works of Mary from around the world through detailed images and short videos.

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Online Exhibitions | National Museum of Women in the Arts

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Explore NMWA's online exhibitions. These fun, interactive experiences have been designed to complement exhibitions that have been held at the museum.

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Powered By Reason - poweredbyreason.co.uk

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People’s History Museum (PHM) is fully accessible wherever possible, and we are committed to supporting all visitors during their time at PHM. Visit PHM in Manchester UK, the national museum of democracy, telling the story of its development in Britain: past, present, and future.

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Powered By Reason - poweredbyreason.co.uk

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People’s History Museum (PHM) is passionate about collaboration. Interested in collaborating with PHM? Find out how you can get involved. Visit PHM in Manchester UK, the national museum of democracy, telling the story of its development in Britain: past, present, and future.

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digital accessibility experts live tickets

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Eventbrite - Hassell Inclusion presents Digital Accessibility Experts Live - Thursday, 23 July 2020 - Find event and registration information.

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Eventbrite - Langston Hughes Library presents Saturday Craft Series - Saturday, October 17, 2020 | Saturday, January 7, 2023 - Find event and ticket information.

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kitchen lithography workshop: tracing your tail

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kitchen lithography workshop: tracing your tail tickets

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kitchen lithography workshop: tracing your tail manchester

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kitchen lithography workshop: tracing your tail manchester tickets

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KITCHEN LITHOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: Tracing Your Tail

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Eventbrite - Yiu-Wai Chu, pricechu & Saan1 presents KITCHEN LITHOGRAPHY WORKSHOP: Tracing Your Tail - at Saan1, Manchester, England. Find event and ticket information.

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Eventbrite - Lensbaby presents Lensbaby Photowalk - Manchester, UK - Saturday, April 30, 2022 at The Lowry, Salford, England. Find event and ticket information.

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Welcome to the Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art (CFCCA)

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Manchester's Centre for Chinese Contemporary Art (CFCCA) leads the UK in exploring Chinese contemporary culture through a diverse range of art and artists.

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Find out about Access performances & services in ATG’s theatres. Book Official Access tickets here and discover our FAQs.

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The Yorkshire moors tell an epic story of love, revenge and redemption.

Rescued from the Liverpool docks as a child, Heathcliff is adopted by the Earnshaws and taken to live at Wuthering Heights. He finds a kindred spirit in Catherine Earnshaw and a fierce love ignites. When forced apart, a brutal chain of events is unleashed.

Shot through with music, dance, passion and hope, Emma Rice (Romantics Anonymous, Wise Children, Brief Encounter) transforms Emily Brontë's masterpiece into a powerful and uniquely theatrical experience.

Lucy McCormick (Post Popular) leads the company of performers and musicians in this intoxicating revenge tragedy for our time.

"I am Heathcliff! Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same."

There will be a post-show talk after the performance on Thursday 5th May at 7.30pm

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Wuthering Heights | What's On | The Lowry

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Rescued from the Liverpool docks as a child, Heathcliff is adopted by the Earnshaws and taken to live at Wuthering Heights. He finds a kindred spirit in Catherine Earnshaw and a fierce love ignites. When forced apart, a brutal chain of events is unleashed.

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Creativity For Wellbeing | What's On | The Lowry

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This is a fun, easy walking-based workout to some of your favourite tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s. You can easily take part on your feet or seated works great too, following the arms and upper body work. Come along to loosen your joints and muscles, smile more, worry less and even tick off around 2,000 steps (or equivalent work).

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COVID UPDATE Our program of in-person Wild Life Drawing classes is in full swing. For your safety and peace of mind, we’re still reducing attendee numbers to ensure everyone has enough space to feel comfortable. We’re also keeping some covid protocols in place as well as using only our largest space…

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HALF DAY BIRD OF PREY ENCOUNTER (Group Bookings of 6 – 8 only)

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free parrot displays and talks to schools, nursing homes

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Dive into the world of donkey-assisted activity and learn about the different types of activity on offer through The Donkey Sanctuary.

Donkeys have an innate emotional intelligence that can help develop key life skills in humans, such as self-awareness, communication, empathy and emotion management.

We allow our donkeys the freedom to work with our clients on the same level to develop empathetic relationships, which are mutually beneficial for the client and the donkey.

Donkey Facilitated Learning (DFL)

What is Donkey Facilitated Learning?

DFL is experiential learning in the presence of donkeys supported by a qualified facilitator. The aim of these sessions is to create a space for individuals to discover their own capabilities, offering opportunities to develop wellbeing and life skills, through observations of, and interactions with, the donkeys.

How is DFL structured?

Programmes run over a set number of weeks. Prior to the first session, a staff member, the client, and a designated support will meet to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the client. Throughout the programme, the facilitator will work alongside the donkeys, using skills to support the individual to develop aspects of wellbeing and life skills using specific session guides. Sessions are tailored to develop aspects of wellbeing and self-development, allowing facilitators to adapt sessions to meet the client's evolving needs.

Donkey Management Programme (DMP)

What is a Donkey Management Programme?

DMP is an activity led programme, educating people on donkey welfare and wellbeing, through a physical approach. These sessions help to develop a greater understanding of the donkeys' day-to-day care, whilst offering a unique learning environment that supports self-development and wellbeing, creating positive relationships between humans and animals.

How are DMP sessions structured?

Programmes run over a set number of weeks. Prior to the first session, a member of staff, client, and designated client support will meet, to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the individual client. DMP programmes often develop skills in organisation, communication, decision making and develop a sense of achievement. The sessions are structured around the five Welfare Domains (Nutrition, Environment, Health, Behaviour, and Mental State); key aspects of animal care and welfare that give the client an insight into caring for donkeys and what we can do to provide for their health and happiness. As such, DMP provides an opportunity for developing a knowledge of animal care, as well as developing key life skills.

Wellbeing with Donkeys (WWD)

What is Wellbeing with Donkeys?

Wellbeing with Donkeys encompasses a unique range of sessions, offering the time and space for individuals to focus on developing skills around self-awareness, self-care and work-life balance, in natural surroundings. With a focus on promoting physical and mental health, sessions may involve interactions with donkeys, participation in mindfulness activities, or specific coaching support to develop awareness of emotional and physical wellbeing.

How are WWD sessions structured?

Sessions may run as a stand-alone, or a programme of sessions individually tailored to suit the needs of the client. Prior to the session, a member of staff, client, and designated client support will meet, to gain some understanding and agree a way forward for the individual client.

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Dive into the world of donkey-assisted activity and learn about the different types of activity on offer through The Donkey Sanctuary. Donkeys have an innate emotional intelligence that can help develop key life skills in humans, such as self-awareness, communication, empathy and emotion management.

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Sensory riding and handling

This experience is suited to those wishing to improve their physical, emotional and social state.

This equine facilitated activity can improve mental health, and help tackle sensory integration disorder.

Sensory riding and handling promotes and practices interaction with horses to assist individuals with emotional and mental disabilities, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and mood disorder, those with behavioural problems and those going through life changes.

Physical exercise

Riding provides physiotherapy on the move - the warmth and three dimensional movement of the horse is transmitted through the body of the rider helping them to relax, and strengthen core muscles, enabling the rider to become stronger and more supple.

Many riders also find that riding helps improve their posture, balance and coordination. Many referrals are given from medical professionals to improve health and well-being.

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Open Access | Wythenshawe Park Riding Stables

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Sensory riding and handling This experience is suited to those wishing to improve their physical, emotional and social state. This equine facilitated activity can improve mental health, and help tackle sensory integration disorder.

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Location
We are within the horticultural center located within the spectacular Grounds of Wythenshawe Hall dating from 15th Century.

Meetings
Meeting through out the year every Saturday 9:30am-13:00.
With reduced meetings during the Winter.

Activities
Members are involved in all aspects of bee keeping, including;

Active inspection of the hives

Monitoring of disease's and prevention

Processing of honey and wax

Building and maintenance of equipment

Visitors are welcome to all of the above by invitation and inquire

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Location We are within the horticultural center located within the spectacular Grounds of Wythenshawe Hall dating from 15th Century. Meetings Meeting through out the year every Saturday 9:30am-13:00.With reduced meetings during the Winter.

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For the latest Covid Advice go to the City Council web page:

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our local nature reserve in Blackley, North Manchester

Blackley Forest is situated in Higher Blackley, bordered by Blackley Cemetery, the River Irk, Victoria Avenue and Blackley New Road.

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our local nature reserve in Blackley, North Manchester Blackley Forest is situated in Higher Blackley, bordered by Blackley Cemetery, the River Irk, Victoria Avenue and Blackley New Road.

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Spend time with friends in beautiful surroundings National Trust/Dave Jones

There's so much to do with your friends on a group visit to Dunham Massey. Enjoy a moment of peace in the gardens, get close to nature in the deer park and discover stories of fascinating objects in the house. There's always time for a hot drink and cake too.

Dunham Massey is situated just outside Manchester and is a green oasis a short journey away from the bustling city. We are close to excellent motorway links and provide an ideal stopping off point when travelling to and from Manchester airport.

Due to current coronavirus restrictions, we're only able to take provisional bookings from 17 May 2021 onwards. We continue to ask visitors to adhere to the latest government guidance to help us keep our staff, volunteers and visitors safe.

Make a booking

We welcome groups on most days but we cannot take bookings on Sundays, Bank Holiday weekends and event weekends. Please check availability before you arrange your visit.

Points to note:

Reduced rates apply to groups of 15+ people

Free coach parking space for pre-booked groups

We have a limited number of mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs available to book at no extra cost. Please call in advance to check availability. We have an access statement on our website for information when planning your visit.

For more information, please download the group booking pack here.

Email or call 0161 941 1025 to book your group visit today.

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There's so much to do with your friends on a group visit to Dunham Massey. Enjoy a moment of peace in the gardens, get close to nature in the deer park and discover stories of fascinating objects in the house. There's always time for a hot drink and cake too.

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Eventbrite - Active Outdoors presents Bat Walk - Wednesday, 4 May 2022 at Lilford Park, Leigh, England. Find event and registration information.

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Event details

Meeting point

Meet outside the Café at Boggart Hole Clough (M9 7DF) 10-15 minutes before the event

About the event

On this walk we'll look at how to tell these colourful creatures apart by sight and also by sound as we listen to their songs. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing and your binoculars if you have them.

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Boggart's Hole Clough Bird Walk | The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside

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Meet outside the Café at Boggart Hole Clough (M9 7DF) 10-15 minutes before the event On this walk we'll look at how to tell these colourful creatures apart by sight and also by sound as we listen to their songs. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing and your binoculars if you have them.

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Services delivered:

Free Natural History Walks exploring Boggart Hole Clough Ancient Woodland Park every Saturday starting 10am outside the Lakeside Café with walk around the Lake carrying out our Weekly Waterbirds Survey. Walks on other days by arrangement.

The Clough and adjacent Bailey's Wood are Ancient Semi-Natural Woodlands described by Natural England as "irreplaceable" and of "prime ecological and landscape importance." Ecologists report these woodlands to be in an "unfavourable condition" as are other aspects of the area.

We study the area's past and present condition including its wildlife habitats, identify and map fauna & flora species, and research, discuss and promote restoring biodiversity health.

Everyone can join FoBHC activities, as our Equal Opportunities Policy affirms. Joining is free.

All ages welcome. Under 16s must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

For further info contact Peter Milner - 0161 203 5009 - peterfmilner@hotmail.com

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Manchester Community Central | Supporting our voluntary and community sector

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Services delivered: Free Natural History Walks exploring Boggart Hole Clough Ancient Woodland Park every Saturday starting 10am outside the Lakeside Café with walk around the Lake carrying out our Weekly Waterbirds Survey. Walks on other days by arrangement. The Clough and adjacent Bailey's Wood are Ancient Semi-Natural Woodlands described by Natural England as "irreplaceable" and of "prime ecological and landscape importance."

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post-/pre- movie discussion

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Beacon Films: film production services in Newcastle upon Tyne, North East England

Programmers from Beacon Films are organising a season of accessible and inclusive film screenings at Star & Shadow Cinema in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Our volunteer programmers: Phil, Katelyn, Paul and Darren are planning screenings with adjustments to make them more comfortable for adult audiences who may be autistic, have learning disabilities or additional needs.

Anyone is welcome to attend, so long as you are respectful towards audiences with a range of access needs, including people who may need to make a bit of noise or movement during a film.

Where possible, online screenings of the films will be available for those who cannot travel to the cinema in person.

Click a button to jump to section

Wolfwalkers (PG)

Where: Star and Shadow Cinema

Date: Sunday 20th March

Time: Doors open at 1.30pm, the intro to the film starts at 2pm.

Film finishes at about 3.45pm.

Price: Pay As You Can or FREE; P.A's and carers go free.

Wolfwalkers: Irish animated fantasy film. Robyn, a young girl, follows her father to Kilkenny to hunt the last wolf pack. However, she befriends a girl from a mysterious tribe and learns their secret.

This is a sensory friendly screening and event for adult audiences. To support our guests we do not recommend them to anyone under the age of 12 years.

If you need someone to support you to go to the cinema there are free tickets for carers or PA's.

Content Warning (CW) (May contain spoilers): Scenes of mild threat include wolves attacking humans.
There is very mild bad language ('Jesus' and 'God'). Some upsetting scenes occur when a child fears for the safety of a parent. You can find out more information about content on the BBFC website.

There is a chill-out space available if you need to take a break

You are able to make a bit of noise or movement if you need to. During the Covid pandemic, we ask you not to move around the cinema once seated, however if you need to stretch your legs you can leave the cinema to use our chill-out space nearby.

The screening will not be full of people - there will be plenty of space in the cinema.

There will be friendly volunteers on hand to help with anything you might need.

Due to sensory sensitivities of some of our guests, we do not recommend the screenings for children; particularly those under the age of 2 years old.

The films will also be screened with captioned subtitles

1. We will remind everyone entering the cinema that they should not come in if they do not feel well.

2. Customers will be seated with a space of 2 metres apart between each party

3. The screening will have a maximum of 20 people in the cinema (the standard capacity is 80)

4. There is a one way system around the cinema

5. Hand sanitiser is available around the building which customers are encouraged to use.

6. We advise volunteers and customers to wear a face covering, though we respect that some people struggle with these and are exempt

Download our Easy Read Covid safety information sheet (.pdf) by clicking here.

This GIF shows the one way system in Star and Shadow from the cinema to the toilets and back. This is part of our Covid safety plan.

Wheelchair access: The Star and Shadow building is wheelchair accessible. In the cinema there are currently four spaces for wheelchair users in the socially distanced seating plan. There are 2 wheelchair spaces at the front near the screen, and 2 wheelchair spaces in the middle of the cinema. The cinema has step free access to all seating.

Toilets: The cinema has both gender neutral and gender specific toilets alongside an accessible toilet.

Parking: Star and Shadow has it's own small, free carpark next to the cinema.

Star & Shadow Cinema, Warwick Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 1BB
View on Google Maps by clicking here

Click here to be taken to the Star & Shadow Cinema website

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Beacon Films | Relaxed Cinema - Beacon Films

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Beacon Films: film production services in Newcastle upon Tyne, North East England Programmers from Beacon Films are organising a season of accessible and inclusive film screenings at Star & Shadow Cinema in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Our volunteer programmers: Phil, Katelyn, Paul and Darren are planning screenings with adjustments to make them more comfortable for adult audiences who may be autistic, have learning disabilities or additional needs.

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Our Box Office and Bookshop are fully accessible and are situated in the foyer.

The cinema screens are situated on the top floor and are fully accessible via the lift, with wheelchair access in every screen.

The café and bar areas on each floor of the building are fully accessible.

The gallery is on the ground floor and is fully accessible.

Accessible toilets are available on each floor.

Wheelchair spaces are available in all areas of Theatre 1 (stalls, circle and gallery).

Disabled parking and drop offs

The nearest car park is Q-Park at First Street (next door to HOME). There are 28 disabled parking spaces. HOME visitors receive a 20% discount on parking (validate your ticket or show a receipt from our cafe & bar, in the venue). HOME Members and Friends get their first hour's parking free (you can get your voucher from Box Office).

There is free on street parking for blue badge holder on Whitworth Street West. Blue Badge holders are entitled to park for free at parking meters and at pay-and-display on-street parking (unless otherwise stated) when travelling as either a driver or passenger.

The best place for drop offs is on Whitworth Street West. Pull up in front of the silver bollards underneath Arch 70 next to Belvoir Lettings. It is approximately 100m from here to our front door on a flat paved road.

Services for deaf or hearing-impaired customers

All our cinemas have induction loops and we provide BSL (British Sign Language) screening and events. We have a portable induction loop system at our Box Office.

We provide captioned screenings of films when possible. Captioning is a service for hearing-impaired or deaf people. These screenings have a transcription of the film's dialogue in English along the bottom of the screen and may also describe the sounds in the film.

Our programme also contains many films subtitled into English from other languages. These may also be suitable for deaf or hearing-impaired customers.

Films and events available with caption subtitles and BSL are indicated on our website listings and in print.

Services for blind or partially sighted customers

Listings are available in large print and audio CD from our Box Office, please email boxofficeteam@homemcr.org with any inquiries.

All Cinemas are equipped with infrared audio description equipment. Audio described screenings are similar to listening to a cricket or football match on the radio, having the action described to you. The normal film soundtrack comes through the cinemas surround sound speakers in the usual way, and a recorded narrator explains what's happening on screen - in gaps in the dialogue and sound effects - through special headphones that allow the user to still hear the sound from the speakers.

Theatre performances offering audio description, BSL and caption subtitles will take place at HOME, please check the access information on individual production pages or contact our Box Office directly via phone on 0161 200 1500 or email boxofficeteam@homemcr.org.

To reserve an AD headset please email boxofficeteam@homemcr.org or phone 0161 200 1500. Films are rarely available with audio description on DVD, so catch them while you can at the cinema.

Please note audio description has to be actively produced by the film distributors who have to decide to pay someone to write and record the audio description track. Some distributors (Warner Brothers for example) have a policy of providing AD (and subtitles) for all their films. Others distributors may never provide this service.

Films and events available with audio description, caption subtitles and BSL are indicated in our website listings and in print.

Relaxed Events

Relaxed events at HOME are for anyone who would welcome watching a film or seeing a theatre performance in a more relaxed environment. They have been designed to be friendlier to people who experience autism, however they may also be suitable for people with sensory disorders or learning difficulties. We aim to make the events as inclusive as possible so they are open to all, even if you don't need the adjustments we make for relaxed performances and screenings.

Relaxed Performances - In the theatre, we'll make some subtle changes to the performance, toning down any loud noises and lighting effects and leaving the house lights on low. The doors to the theatre will remain open throughout the performance and we'll be providing a chill out space in a separate area of the building. There will be a relaxed attitude to noise and movement within the theatre.

Relaxed Screenings (Cinema) - We'll be holding relaxed screenings of family friendly films every month. For these we'll keep the cinema lights on low and turn the volume down a little. There will be no trailers or advertisements before the film starts and you'll be able to move around the cinema if you want to. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks into the cinema.

Booking tickets

To buy advance tickets for a wheelchair space (and seats alongside, if required) please call Box Office on 0161 200 1500.

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Our Box Office and Bookshop are fully accessible and are situated in the foyer. The cinema screens are situated on the top floor and are fully accessible via the lift, with wheelchair access in every screen. The café and bar areas on each floor of the building are fully accessible.

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Vue is dedicated to accessibility for all guests, with autism-friendly screenings, subtitled and audio description listings, & free tickets for CEA carers.

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Autism-friendly screenings are sometimes called relaxed or sensory-friendly screenings. Adjustments are made to reduce stress and sensory input, such as low lighting and sound, freedom to move and staff trained in autism awareness.

Upcoming autism-friendly cinema screenings

Here are the upcoming films for our partner cinemas. Please visit their webpage for full details:

Cineworld - Barbie on Sunday September 3rd
See an autism-friendly screening of Barbie on Sunday September 3rd at 11am.
Please note that Cineworld Enfield location will be showing their screening on Saturday September 2nd at 11am.

The Light - Various
The Light has a variety of screenings scheduled across their cinemas. Please visit their page to find out what's showing near you.

Showcase - Various
See an autism-friendly screening, at 10am, of:

Elemental on 9th July

How To Train Your Dragon on 16th July

The Barbie Movie on 23rd July

The Barbie Movie on 30th July

Picturehouse - Various
See an autism-friendly screening of:

Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical Singalong on 13 August

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2D) on 20 August

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish on 27 August

The Little Mermaid (2023) on 17 September

Times vary by location.

At least once a month ODEON, Cineworld, Vue, Showcase, Picturehouse and Everyman cinemas show popular films in an autism-friendly environment, and independent cinemas can use our free training to host their own.

We hope these screenings will help more people with sensory sensitivity enjoy the cinema and for many, provide a transition into regular screenings.

Anyone who feels they can benefit from the adjustments is welcome and no proof of diagnosis is needed. Your loved ones or support staff are welcome too.

Find an autism-friendly screening near you

This map displays our partner cinemas showing autism-friendly screenings and some independent cinemas too. Alternatively, use the buttons below to find out about upcoming screenings.

Click the arrow on the left to turn the layers on and off for each cinema brand. We try to keep this information up to date but recommend you check with your local cinema for participation details.

Have you found your local cinema?
It's time to see when their next autism-friendly screening is! Use the buttons below to find out more.<<Back to autism-friendly environments

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We're thrilled to announce that after a challenging year, autism friendly cinema screenings are back! There will be some covid adjustments in place, and these will be dependent on the cinema.

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Structure our own guided tour

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Visit Room to Breathe

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Scavenger hunt (exploring the art)

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Plan your visit

A guide for mental health workers

We know that coming to an art gallery or any unfamiliar space can be daunting for lots of people.

That's why we've worked with healthcare professionals and service users to come up with some tips to help make your group visit enjoyable and as stress-free as possible.

Recent studies have proved that visiting an art gallery can have a positive impact on a person's health and wellbeing.

We invite healthcare professionals and community leaders to use our art and spaces as a resource to help promote positive health and wellbeing.

Resource for recovery

Visiting an art gallery can enable people to connect with others, increase feelings of self-esteem and once again feel part of the community.

The experience can give a sense of achievement and autonomy, help develop confidence and spark curiosity.

Before your visit

What happens if I feel overwhelmed and want to leave?

Discuss with your group any concerns they may have about coming to an art gallery.

In the past, groups have asked questions such as; will there be lots of people? Will I be expected to say or do anything? What if I want to leave? Answer these as best you can. You know your group best. If there is anything you're unsure about, you can always give us a call.

Busy times

During the week we have visits from school groups so if you and your group are looking for a less busy time to visit it's quieter after 3pm or on weekends and Thursday evenings.

Quiet room

We understand that all sorts of things can be triggers for challenging emotions. If you think someone in your group might need access to a quiet room please get in touch and we'll do our best to reserve a private space for you.

Getting started

Why not pick a theme before your visit, something you're interested in as a group; set each other the challenge to see how many artworks you can find that link to that theme. Previous groups have chosen themes like nature, opposites, Manchester and even the colour blue!

Exploring the gallery

There's no rush, take your time.

Ask one of our friendly Visitor Services staff about what's on. We often hold free lunchtime talks and workshops that you might want to take part in.

Getting around

It's a large building with lots to see, so why not take the lift to the top floor and work your way down - it can be less tiring that way.

Explore the architecture. The gallery is made up of C19th and C21st architecture. Can you spot where the old meets new? Which do you prefer?

Looking at art

Get creative. Use your imagination. Be curious.

We encourage our visitors to talk openly and say what they think about art.

And talking about art is about starting a conversation. Just like any other.

So, ask each other questions. What do you think of it? What does it remind you of? Describe it one word. What does it tell us about the artist? Remember, there's no right or wrong answer.

Take notice

Did you know, on average, people stand in front of art for around 15 seconds? Try looking at an artwork for 5 whole minutes and take your time noticing detail. You might be surprised!

Clore art studio

Our Clore art studio is a creative space for everyone to use right in the heart of our building. There is no right or wrong way to interact with the space, materials or people. It is there for all our visitors to explore, play and enjoy. Need help getting started? Just ask one of our friendly studio volunteers.

After your visit

Keep talking

Art often acts as a springboard for discussion giving people the opportunity to talk about issues that they may find difficult to bring up on their own.

We're always here

Don't forget, there's lots to discover at Manchester Art Gallery. You don't have to see everything in one visit. Come back and explore a different part of the gallery together.

Call us

We want you to feel confident about visiting us with your group, so if there is anything you're not sure about then get in touch.

Louise Thompson, Learning Manager: Health and wellbeing,
Tel: 0161 235 8844
Email: l.thompson1@manchester.gov.uk

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Plan your visit | Manchester Art Gallery

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A guide for mental health workers We know that coming to an art gallery or any unfamiliar space can be daunting for lots of people. That's why we've worked with healthcare professionals and service users to come up with some tips to help make your group visit enjoyable and as stress-free as possible.

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Tours and workshops

Art enables people to see beyond their horizons; to escape, to play, to imagine, to connect, to create and share stories. Our tours and workshops for adults offer a variety of ways that ignite curiosity through talking, making and noticing.

Tuesday

Take Notice
First and third Tuesday of every month, 12:15 - 12.45pm and 1 - 1:30pm
Please note that in January 2019 only Take Notice Sessions will take place on the second and third Tuesday.

Take time out of your busy day and experience artworks within the gallery in a calming and rejuvenating way. Using mindfulness techniques, you will be guided in exploring specially selected works on display. Simply come along to sit, look, notice and breathe. Everyone is welcome.

Free, no need to book

For more information please contact: Louise Thompson

Tel: 0161 235 8844
Email: l.thompson1@manchester.gov.uk

English Corner
Second Tuesday of every month, 10.30-12 noon
Free English conversation classes

English corner is for people learning to speak English. You will look at artworks and talk about them together. Our English tutor will help you practise your speaking and listening skills. The sessions are friendly and our tutor will make sure you can join in even if you have only just started to learn English.

Free, no need to book. Groups of up to 10 learners are very welcome but must book.

For more information please contact: Ruth Edson:

Philosophy Café
Third Tuesday of every month, 10.15am - 12pm
The Philosophy Café is the perfect opportunity to experience art and discuss a philosophical question, creating a space for people to talk and think together. Each session starts in the gallery cafe, discussing the topic in small groups. After this we explore an artwork on display, followed by a group discussion in a gallery space, amongst our world class exhibitions and collections.

No need to book. Just turn up and meet Sue/Peter in the cafe bar.

Philosophy cafe also takes place on the first Wednesday of every month, 6pm-8pm - please note that there is no Wednesday Philosophy Cafe in January 2019 - Wednesday 6 February is the first Philosophy Cafe of 2019.

For more information please contact: Ruth Edson:

Making Conversation
Last Tuesday of every month, 1-4pm
Please note there will be no Making Conversation session in December 2019 or in August 2020.

Connect with others in this artist-led workshop where you will use all your senses to explore and make art. Every session is audio described and all materials and refreshments are provided.

Free, no need to book.

For more information please contact Kate Day:
Tel: 0161 235 8855
Email: k.day1@manchester.gov.uk

Wednesday

Art Bites
Every Wednesday, 12:30pm - 1pm
Art Bites is about chatting with other people about art. Each week the session focuses on two contrasting artworks on display. It's a great way to find out what others think and express your own opinion about art. Everyone is welcome.

Free, no need to book.

For more information please contact: Meg Parnell

Stories We Share
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 12-2pm
Join in with the Stories We Share discussion table in Trading Station. This lunchtime session is about finding inspiration, being curious and sharing stories. Add your stories to the discussion #StoriesWeShare. Everyone is welcome.

Free, no need to book

For more information please contact: Meg Parnell

Tel: 0161 235 8855
Email: m.parnell@manchester.gov.uk

Philosophy Cafe at First Wednesday
First Wednesday of the month, 6-8pm
The Philosophy Cafe is the perfect opportunity to experience art and discuss a philosophical question, creating a space for people to talk and think together. Each session starts in the gallery cafe, discussing the topic in small groups. After this we explore an artwork on display, followed by a group discussion in a gallery space, amongst our world class exhibitions and collections.

No need to book. Just turn up and meet Sue/Peter in the cafe bar.

Philosophy Cafe also takes place on the third Tuesday of every month, 10.15-12pm

For more information please contact: Ruth Edson:

First Wednesdays After Hours

We are open until 9pm on the first Wednesday of the month ( starting from Wednesday 6th February 2019 ) with a varied programme of events. Take the opportunity to drop in after work, listen to some music or attend a talk, have a bite to eat and a drink with friends and try something new after hours.

Thursday and Friday daytime

Highlights tours
Every Thursday and Friday 2-3pm
Join a guided tour of our world class exhibitions and collections and discover the fascinating stories behind the art and our historic building in these expertly guided tours. Each guide has their own style and choice of artworks, so no two tour are the same.

Tours also take place on Saturday and Sunday, 2-3pm.

Free, no need to book.

Weekends

Highlights tour
Every Saturday and Sunday, 2-3pm
Join a guided tour of our world class exhibitions and collections and discover the fascinating stories behind the art and our historic building in these expertly guided tours. Each guide has their own style and choice of artworks, so no two tour are the same.

Tours also take place on Thursdays and Fridays, 2-3pm.

Free, no need to book.

Tour in British Sign Language
Second Sunday of every month, 3-4pm
If you are a BSL user then this is the tour for you. Jennifer Little delivers a tour directly in BSL with no interpreter. Find out more about current exhibitions and discuss your reactions and thoughts about the art on display.

No need to book. Meet Jennifer in the atrium near the Information desk.

For more information please contact: Meg Parnell

Mindful Marks
Seasonal Sundays throughout the year, 12-2 pm
De-stress and draw with artist Naomi Kendrick in these multi-sensory and experimental workshops using mindfulness-based techniques. Stay for two minutes or two hours; it's up to you. Everyone is welcome.

Free, drop in

For more information on the next session please check the website events pages or contact: Louise Thompson

Keep in touch

For updates on our FREE events sign up to our e-newsletter.

or

Follow: @MAGlearning or Facebook

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Tours and workshops | Manchester Art Gallery

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Art enables people to see beyond their horizons; to escape, to play, to imagine, to connect, to create and share stories. Our tours and workshops for adults offer a variety of ways that ignite curiosity through talking, making and noticing.

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Room to Breathe | Manchester Art Gallery

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The noise and overstimulation of the modern world gets too much for many of us. Room to Breathe is a dedicated space to help you experience art in a more mindful way. You can see a variety of works from our collection and listen to original audio guides to help you to explore the art […]

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Inclusivity and diversity have become a focal point for events and professionals in the industry. We explore the why and how of creating inclusive spaces for so-called neurodivergent people.
Conversations around diversity and inclusion often refer to people of different genders, races, religious beliefs, and sexual preferences. However, the unique needs of neurodivergent people - such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - are an often overlooked aspect of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) - something that event planners and professionals are starting to consider more and more when hosting events.

A neuro-inclusive event is accessible, safe, and inclusive to different neurological types (neurotypical and neurodivergent), thus adding value to attendees and planners alike. But before we learn how to plan and host neuro-inclusive events, we must first understand neuro-differences, the meaning of neurodiversity, and why it is crucial to create safe and engaging spaces where more people can participate to their fullest potential.

In this piece, we delve into this topic by providing an overview of what it means to be neurodivergent and give practical suggestions for planners looking to create neuro-inclusive events.

Understanding the Why Behind Neuro-Inclusive Events

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE NEURODIVERGENT?

There are two types of neuro functioning - neurotypical and neurodivergent. Neurotypical brains operate in a typical way in terms of intellect, functioning, and development. By contrast, neurodivergent peoples' brains respond, interact, develop, and function in ways outside of what is considered "typical."

Being neurodivergent is not a mental health illness (a state of mind outside an individual's "normal" self). Instead, being neurodivergent is a neurodevelopmental disorder (or condition) that occurs either before a person is born (in the womb) or in early childhood when the brain develops. And while the likelihood of a neurodivergent individual experiencing mental illness increases due to the risk profile, the two can and do exist separately; someone who is neurodivergent will always be neurodivergent, even when healthy and thriving and without mental illness.

Many of the conditions that fall under the category of "neurodivergent." Although this list is not exhaustive, some examples of neurodivergent disorders and conditions include:

keyboard_arrow_right Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

keyboard_arrow_right Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

keyboard_arrow_right Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

keyboard_arrow_right Dyslexia

keyboard_arrow_right Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

keyboard_arrow_right Tourette's Syndrome

CHALLENGES FACED BY NEURODIVERGENT PEOPLE

Being neurodivergent is not a trend or buzzword and should never be treated as such. In most instances, being neurodivergent is a very real and very taxing way people function neurologically. Donné Lance, a clinical psychologist in independent practice and senior consultant for The Neurodiversity Centre, explains that after overcoming challenges associated with even mild and moderate impairments in childhood, people with neurodiverse brains are often hindered by other factors when transitioning into adulthood. These factors could include fluctuating energy, persistent low mood, difficulty with intimacy, difficulty making eye contact, and executive functioning difficulties (to name a few).

As the external demands of the world and society increase, the difficulty in responding to these pressures often leads neurodivergent people to seek treatment - usually for anxiety and mood-related issues, which may, at times, look like burnout or a breakdown. By working to create inclusive environments, event planners can help to prevent neurodivergent attendees from feeling alienated.

WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY

Neurodiversity was a term first coined and since popularized by sociologist Judy Singer and fellow "autistic advocate" and journalist Harvey Blume in the late 1990s.

Clinical psychologist Donné Lance elaborates that neurodiversity often encompasses the perspective that neurodivergence is not something that necessarily needs to be treated or "cured" but instead accommodated, included, and more importantly, identified and understood. Lance adds, "This idea and the advocacy for a new understanding that considers neurological diversity (having a diverse variety of brains in a group), including different ways of being, sensing, integrating, perceiving, feeling (emotional and physical), are valued and embraced because of those very differences."

But not everyone agrees with the term "neurodiversity" and its implicitly positive perception of neurodivergence. The concept can be controversial, as some argue that being neurodivergent can be debilitating and prevent someone from functioning or partaking in life in a very limited capacity.

However, this should not stop or deter planners from working towards including and accommodating neurodivergent people who could potentially attend an event - planners must be aware of and commit to designing neuro-inclusive event experiences whenever and wherever possible while being aware of existing strengths-based approaches.

NEURO-INCLUSIVITY CREATES SHARED VALUE

Planners should design events for everyone attending, not just for the organization's core target demographic - connecting with all members of the audience ensures they will keep coming back.

Founder and CEO of EventWell, Helen Moon, believes that we need to stop seeing attendees as commodities and get back to the basics of people-focused events. This view speaks to creating neuro-inclusive spaces. "We've lost sight of the human beings sitting in the seats, and walking floors visiting the exhibits," said Moon. "If you can create an event that enhances that experience, at every single level for everybody attending that event, then that's a win-win, and it shows that people want to come back to that [event] again."

Some have also suggested that creating neuro-inclusive environments in the working world can lead to a more resilient workplace. Why can the same not be said for event spaces, including internal meetings organized in response to the current shift to remote working and new event planner roles?

Making accommodations for a diverse event audience within a room (either virtual or in-person) creates opportunities to add richness to event engagement and interaction. An enhanced experience is bound to happen as you have designed an environment where different perspectives, mindsets, and backgrounds can co-create, amplifying engagement in a variety of activities from networking and Q&As to workshops and panel-to-audience interplay.

Characteristics of Neuro-Inclusive Events

One of the most essential elements to any neuro-inclusive event policy is the creation of "safe spaces." The basic idea is to provide environments where those prone to sensory over-stimulation can rest all of their senses - ideally enjoying quiet, dim lighting, ample personal space, and no strong smells.

While creating these "safe spaces" is nothing new to the mental health and wellbeing sectors, they can be relatively novel in the events industry. Events that have been providing these spaces for several years include IMEX through their "white space" area, the Annual ICA Conference, and Microsoft events.

Another organization moving to champion this approach is EventWell, which launched their "quiet room" concept in September 2021. EventWell's quiet rooms include working with planners to create designated event areas where neurodivergent people can seek respite when they need to take a sensory break - a break from things like loud noise, crowds, and bright lights.

Moon added that the location of a quiet room can be pivotal. By placing the quiet room next to the plenary room, this allows for a neurodivergent attendees to listen to the keynote while feeling comfortable and not overwhelmed or stressed.

The process of designing neuro-inclusive events needs to start at the conception stage and include aspects like the environment, engagement strategies, and representation for the neuro-diverse community.

In the next section, we outline top recommendations from industry professionals for designing neuro-inclusive events.

12 Recommendations for Designing Neuro-Inclusive Events

Neuro-inclusive event spaces
1. Offer hybrid event formats
Hybrid events give neurodivergent people a choice when deciding to attend an event either in-person or virtually to best respond according to their unique needs and ways of coping in social situations.

Lance points out that early advocates for neurodiversity predicted the use of the internet as a tool to help people with autism (specifically) connect with others via something like social media and gaming. "We saw during the rapid lockdowns implemented worldwide how workplaces, schools can accommodate flexible schedules, online learning, and meetings," said Lance.

However, the needs of neurodivergent people can and do differ from person to person. To explain this, Lance added that online engagement formats can help conserve energy for some neurodivergent people due to minimized social interaction and the skills required to do so are incrementally less. Lance also noted that for other neurodivergent people, it can create challenges. These challenges are especially relevant for those reliant on (their) affective empathy and acute observational skills to assess the room and react [accordingly] with learned responses.
2. Provide reduced or no-noise zones
Map out a space at your event where there is substantial noise reduction. This space will give attendees sensitive to noise the opportunity to reset when they feel overwhelmed. Consider providing headphones to cancel out noise further or privately play a preferred type of music, which can sometimes bring people back to equilibrium. Alternatively, headphones can allow attendees to listen in on sessions remotely, away from crowds and bright lights. Give options.

Additionally, it can be important to set guidelines for how the quiet room should be used. At the 2019 ICA Conference, for example, organizers provided the following notice: "[The room] designated as a comfort room/quiet room [is] for use by attendees requiring a respite from meeting activities. Please note that this room is not to be used for meetings, conversation, or phone calls."
3. Think about lighting
Bright lights coupled with the visual effects typically used at events can be overly stimulating for neurodivergent people. When creating your safe space, ensure that you consider the lighting and the effect it will have. Do you use lights that face up to avoid the glare? Or lighting with a softer color?
4. Accommodate stimming
Some neurodivergent people engage in self-stimulatory behavior, also known as stimming. It usually involves repetitive behavior like hand flapping, rocking, repeating words, blinking a lot, and, in extreme cases, skin picking and headbanging. Most people partake in some form of stimming in life, such as nail-biting. However, autistic people tend to stim significantly more. Consider providing an environment where attendees can feel comfortable stimming, possibly offering some tools to stim with, like fidgets. These accommodations can allow people to self-soothe and work through feelings of anxiety, fear, and even excitement.
5. Offer priority access to refreshments and meals
To help them avoid moving into crowded spaces and overstimulation, attendees sitting in the quiet room should have access to refreshments offered at the event with the option to take their meal there if they wish. Many neurodivergent people can also have unique dietary requirements, which should be catered for.
6. Go fragrance-free
Ideally, quiet rooms and spaces should be fragrance-free or use fragrances that do not overwhelm people or trigger sensory overloads. EventWell has successfully used modest amounts of essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus, known for their potential calming effects. As Moon described, however, getting the right amount of oils has been a process of trial and error.
7. Choose colors wisely
Bright colors can also cause sensory over-stimulation. For this reason, planners should create a neurodivergent space that incorporates neutral or muted color palettes. Moon said that with EventWell's quiet rooms, they generally use pastel colors in decor - even when designing brochures for the space with their logo.

ENGAGEMENT AND INTERACTION
8. Be open to feedback
When planning a neuro-inclusive event, it is crucial to ask questions and be open to feedback before, during, and after an event - this will, however, need to be carried out with care and consideration. Examples could include sending out an anonymous survey or having people stationed onsite to receive feedback.
9. Provide session recordings and transcripts
Many event tech providers can now provide subtitles and recordings of sessions, which can contribute to better DEI at events, including for neurodivergent people. Another option to add is readily available transcripts for sessions. These transcripts are for those who learn better by reading and having more autonomy over the process. Similarly, providing tables to write on will help support those who benefit from note taking.
10. Create predictability and communicate directly
Many neurodivergent people prefer predictability to cope and function. Planners can meet this need by building accessibility into all of their event communication materials, including signage, agendas, and venue plans. All of these resources should be highly visible, readily available, and plainly worded.

In addition, agendas designed for neuro-inclusive events should be direct (lose the jargon) and include all the necessary information such as session times and details, where to go, and who to contact in case of an emergency. Auditory options would also add value, so people can listen to what they need to know.
11. Ensure trained staff is available
Consider training your event staff in the needs of neuro-divergent attendees; another option is to partner with an agency that provides staffing with specialized training. EventWell, for example, supplies trained staff who can be stationed at event quiet rooms and other areas. Having this support structure in place gives neurodivergent attendees the peace of mind that comes from knowing trained people will be available to assist if needed. Another strategy could be to implement an optional buddy system for neurodivergent people to meet and network with others of like mind, reducing social anxiety.
12. Generate awareness
To create a neuro-inclusive event environment, planners must generate awareness of what neuro-inclusivity is and why it is important. One option is to implement bands or stickers that demonstrate people's willingness to engage - red for "don't approach" and green for "open to networking" - while explaining the reason behind such measures.

This awareness must also consider the difference in inclusive language used, like identity-first or person-first language; for example, the phrase "an autistic person" emphasizes the condition, whereas "a person with autism" emphasizes the person. Many neurodivergent people prefer identity-first language as opposed to person-first language, as an individual cannot separate themselves from something that influences every facet of their lives. Planners should engage with neurodivergent attendees on this matter or seek further guidance on this topic by reaching out to professionals in the space.

Further, in dealing with awareness, Lance concludes that essentially, people cannot be separated from their autism or being neurodivergent, "Expecting neurodivergent people to continue to operate and accommodate in a neurotypical environment further perpetuates the stigma of mental health and disclosure."

Creating Space

While inclusivity and the effort to create safe spaces in events are nothing new, perhaps as an industry, we are now ready to work at leveling up our ability to meet these goals. Moon's industry vision means moving from, "Do you have a quiet room?" to, "Where is your quiet room?"

Being neuro-inclusive also doesn't begin and end with attendees only - many successful and influential event professionals are neurodivergent. So, by including neurodiverse attendees, it will also give those working in this space the ability to speak up and provide insight into co-creating neuro-inclusive events with new content, speakers, and settings.

Remember, being neurodivergent does not mean "less than." Instead, it means being different from what is considered typical. And difference and diversity can contribute to authentic, rich, and value-packed interactions and experiences.

Some of the featured ideas come from resources online - like Reframing Austim's guide to hosting inclusive events, Amanda Kirby and the Neurodiversity and Sensory Friendly Guide - in addition to professional interview sources and direct experience with neurodivergency.

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How to Accommodate Event Attendees With Neurological Needs

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Inclusivity and diversity have become a focal point for events and professionals in the industry. We explore the why and how of creating inclusive spaces for so-called neurodivergent people. Conversations around diversity and inclusion often refer to people of different genders, races, religious beliefs, and sexual preferences.

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You've probably been to loads of online events in the past few weeks.

How have you found them?

Have you stayed until the end, or have you ducked out early?

Did you enjoy being able to attend from home, or did you wish you could be there in real life?

I've been to many and they vary enormously in terms of how accessible and welcoming they are.

As well as being an accessibility consultant, I have ADHD and autism, which means I experience the world very differently from you. (Unless you also have ADHD and autism, obvs).

I have found a lot of events inaccessible, unwelcoming or just difficult. I don't blame anyone for that, because this way of working is new to most of us, and it takes time to learn the ropes.

This post isn't intended as a criticism, as I know most of you work very hard to put on your events. It's advice as to how you can make your online events even better, so you get out as much (if not more) than you put in.

Here are some tips on how to make your online event accessible, memorable - and amazing!

1. Run through it first

As someone with ADHD, I'm guilty of not always remembering to do this. I steam in figuring everything will be fine and then find out it's not!

A run-through will help you manage what's going to happen with both your speakers and your technology.

For example, your speaker might be used to introducing themselves, but you're planning to introduce them, so you need to run through how that will work.

You will also need to make sure you can switch between sections as well; for example, from someone speaking to a screen share.

This is so important!

Not just to make your event run smoothly but so you don't get flustered. How you feel and behave has a significant impact on the whole event (probably much more than you realise).

So being chilled because you know how to go to a screenshare without showing everyone the embarrassing stuff you've been buying online will really help the whole vibe of the event. And you!

2. Train yourself on the platform you'll be using

Let's face it, it's gonna be Zoom.

Zoom is pretty easy to use, but as with anything else, there's a learning curve. There are different ways you can hold an event and they have different quirks - for example, you could do it as a meeting, or you could do it as a webinar.

Zoom has free online training here.

Use Zoom's support, ask more experienced colleagues for tips and have a meeting with a colleague (inside or outside your workplace) so you can fiddle about with everything. See how it works. Turn things off and on again.

One advantage of having a real life play with Zoom is that apart from learning how everything works, it could give you ideas about how to run your event. You will learn what's available and what might work for what you're planning.

And - perhaps most importantly - where the "mute all" button is!

3. Have more than one person host

Oh blimey.

I hosted a very last-minute event, had a lot to pull together, and for some unknown reason (ADHD and general bolshiness) thought I could host and manage it on my own.

I couldn't. I don't think anyone can - not with any degree of competence anyway.

An online event needs at least 2 people hosting. I've been to events where they've had a team of 5 doing it.

Everyone has their own task.

For a team of two, one person will usually be managing the people - admitting them to the Zoom room, fielding questions, etc.

The other will be doing the tech. That will be that all-important "mute all" button, switching to screenshare, etc.

For bigger teams, each person will be managing a different aspect. It's imperative each person knows exactly where their role begins and ends - it can sometimes be worse having two people try to do a job than none!

4. Make sure the sound works

You could have the most interesting, compelling and captivating speaker in the world (hi!) but if no-one can hear them, none of that matters.

Test sound again and again, through different set-ups. If people are having connection issues, encourage them to turn off their videos to speed up connection.

Decide if you want screen sharing to have sound or not. If it's sharing sound, make sure you turn off all the annoying dingy noises your computer makes (or "notifications" as it calls them).

I keep mentioning "mute all" and this is why: if you don't, you're getting sound from everyone there. And Zoom will automatically switch focus to the person where the sound is coming from (unless you use the spotlight feature).

What this means in practice is that you'll be talking, and then Sue's husband will walk in and start talking, and the screen will switch to Sue instead of you, and no-one can hear you because of Sue telling her husband to be quiet, and also Mark's dog has started barking and... you get the picture.

There's another advantage to "mute all" as well - it gives people a slight pause before speaking which can occasionally encourage them to collect their thoughts and refrain from interrupting. (You're nodding. Yeah, we all know someone like that).

5. Make yourself look good

When I say "look good" I mean, whatever that looks like for you. It's respectful to others if you make the effort to at least wash and dress yourself, and the more grooming you do, the more presentable you feel.

As a speaker, I actually do my make-up a little stronger than in real life, just so people can see my expressions a bit more easily. It helps them listen, engage and learn if everything is a bit brighter and more expressive than in real life. (Also, my head looks like a potato without any make-up).

Sit close to the screen. Again, as a host, this will help engagement, and help people listen to, and understand you.

Tidy your background. Messy stuff is unprofessional and distracting. You can always use a Zoom background if you like. I personally don't like them because the way they mess up the edges of people's shoulders does my head in, but you do whatever makes you feel comfortable.

Get your lighting right. This is sometimes tricky if you have a limited space in which to hold your meetings, but being backlit will mean no-one can see you. I sit facing a window and if there's not enough light, I turn on the desk lamp on the other side, so my face isn't half in shadow.

Look at your camera. I can't emphasis how much difference this tiny change makes. You can't do it all the time, you will need to look at the screen a lot, but when you're talking, if you look at the camera, it feels much more like people are talking directly to their attendees. Again, it helps engagement.

6. Put your role and pronouns in your name

There's a space in Zoom where you put your username. Most people use their real full name, some people use "iPhone" and some use "Brian's computer" even though they're clearly not Brian.

Put your first name and **STAFF** or **HOST** so people know who's running the event. It helps to direct questions and stuff, and they can also send you a private message through the chat if they need to. It feels really friendly too, especially when people are attending for the first time, or don't know you in real life.

Adding your pronouns is a trans-inclusive thing. Some non-binary people put "they/them" as pronouns so people use the correct ones.

But why should you when you're very obviously male/female? It's to normalise the pronoun thing and make people feel included - so everyone is doing it, not just the trans or non-binary people.

Even if you have no trans attendees, having your pronouns in your name immediately tells everyone it's an inclusive environment. Which means if you're a woman, neurominority, person of colour, or any other minority, you feel welcome, before anyone's even said anything.

Speaking of which...

7. Set up a welcoming environment

I can't stress how important this is.

I went to one event where everyone knew each other apart from me (or at least it seemed that way) and were chatting about things that only involved them.

Can you imagine how you'd feel if you walked into an event like that in real life? Yes, I did leave. (I went and played with my kids' Lego actually, so it all worked out fine).

Welcoming people as they join your event sets the tone for the whole thing. How you do this depends on the vibe you want to create. Some people welcome attendees by name. They also write welcoming messages in the chat box.

If your event is small enough, you can invite attendees to introduce themselves. This can work very well and - crucially - it gives everyone the opportunity to speak, even if briefly. Many autistics and women tend not to speak unless invited, so this can be really important for making such people feel included.

Some events have a slide show and music playing as attendees join. I personally really like this. It sets up a mood, it gives you something to look at and listen to as you wait for others to join, and it means the idle chit-chat at the beginning is not the only thing to listen to.

8. Talk people through the features

Even if they already know them, it helps to have a reminder.

In your intro, tell people what you'll be using and if they have to do anything. So for example, you might encourage people to use the chat if they have a question.

Point out where on the Zoom window where you can click stuff, what the buttons are labelled, what colour they are etc.

Invite them to use or not use the features, depending on what you want them to do. Sometimes people need a prompt or permission to do something, like use the chat or raise their hand. Having a bit more confidence in the features will help them to get involved.

9. Bear in mind different needs

At your event, you might have neurodiverse people, or those with a mental health or physical disability. You might have people who are from different countries or cultures too. Some people will have a rubbish internet connection which might restrict their video use.

Even if you don't, everyone attending has their own needs and preferences and being mindful of this can help your event be inclusive and engaging.

So, one thing you can do is offer two different ways of communicating: the chat and raising hands. Dyslexics will have trouble using the chat because of their struggle reading and writing, so offering them a way of asking a question verbally is a way around that. It will help those whose written English is poor, or those who struggle to use a keyboard as well.

Some attendees might want to join in the talking, others will only want to speak if asked, and still others will want to sit and listen. You can invite people to put that in their names if they're able to. Some people use a traffic light system, where the attendee has something in their video frame that is red (for no talking), orange or yellow (only speak if invited) or green (willing to pitch in). Or you can simply ask them, or have video off if they don't want to talk.

Finally, some of us have ADHD and others of us are distracted by all kinds of stuff, whether that's the kids tugging at our sleeve, the cat jumping on our lap, or Kevin from number 32 walking past our window in ill-advised shorts.

You can help all of us stay focused on your event if you strive to make it interesting! That goes beyond the subject or speaker, to breaking up the session into different sections and being clear about what's going on: confusion leads to disengagement. Creating that welcoming and upbeat feel I mentioned earlier will help people engage much more than you think.

10. Tell them the schedule

I was once halfway through an event before I realised it had started. Yeah, really. I know that's partly the ADHD but it was also because no-one had told me what was going to happen.

This is a really important one, for so many reasons. Lots of people will only be able to attend part of an event, so if you tell them what time everything is happening, they know when is good to come in or leave.

It also covers those different needs I mentioned earlier - those with limited attention spans, for example, or those with limited energy.

Knowing when the breaks are is crucial too, and helps people stay engaged. Your attendees will sit and listen if they know it's only 10 minutes until they can go to the toilet and grab a cup of tea (or in my case, wine).

Finally: Go to some really good events to see how they do things

The best way of learning how to do a good event is to copy other people who are doing it well. (Disclaimer: I've spoken at both of the events I've mentioned but that's not why I'm recommending them!).

Tech Nottingham and their sister organisation Women in Tech Nottingham do a lot of the things I mentioned above (thanks for the ideas guys!). I highly recommend attending one of their events to see how it's done - you don't have to be female or in tech, or of course in Nottingham.

Another event series that's doing things well is Women in the Law. There are several every week, so it's easy to catch one at a convenient time. You don't have to be a woman or a lawyer to attend, and lots of the topics are nothing to do with law anyway. There's even a wellbeing evening for people to gather and chat, with mental health professionals present to help out.

I hope that you've found this helpful! If you'd like me to speak about neurodiversity at your event, please get in touch.

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How to make your online event accessible (and amazing)

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You've probably been to loads of online events in the past few weeks. How have you found them? Have you stayed until the end, or have you ducked out early? Did you enjoy being able to attend from home, or did you wish you could be there in real life?

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Invitations, Information leaflet and video sent out before call

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Invitations, Information leaflet and video sent out before call

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potential video explaining call features and etiquette if relevant, especially before first online session or if the etiquette changes for a particular workshop, automatic captioning on teams (might be better than zoom

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Virtual meetings and web-based events or webinars can be a great way to connect with people and share information. They are being used more than ever during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. It's important to make these events accessible for all. This guide is aimed at event or meeting hosts. It should help you make your events more accessible for autistic people and those with additional needs.

1. Ask for people's needs

The most important thing you can do is to proactively invite people with accessibility needs to contact you before your event. We include a line in all meeting invitations that says: "If you have additional needs, let the organiser know and we'll do what we can to help you." This will help you to plan your event, support people during the call and share relevant information before and after.

You may want to offer the following:

Practice call to try out the technology

Closed captioning

Breaks

Personal reminders before the call

Advice if a person's WIFI is unreliable

Options for a participant without a mic or camera.

2. Share information in advance

The best way to reduce anxiety and ensure everyone gets the most out of your event is to share as much information as possible in advance.

Share the presentation slides in advance, with explanations in the notes field. Let participants know how you will share the slides during the event.

Explain the format of the event and timings.

Include a list of those on the call - or at the very least introduce the host of the meeting and explain their role.

Include a guide to the technology and how you will use it. For example, will you use functions such as chat, hands up or breakout rooms. If so, explain these.

Clarify expectations and conventions. Include information such as how you will ensure everyone has a chance to contribute. What is everyone's role? You may wish to introduce a code of conduct if you anticipate issues around some of these conventions.

Explain what will happen after the event - will you follow up on email for those who missed out on certain aspects? Will there be a chance to feed back comments later? If so, how? Will the event be recorded?

Find out if with additional needs are happy to be named - that way you know whether to be open to the group about why you are making certain accommodations. If they are happy to be named, you may wish to share this with participants in advance.

Have one point of contact for all questions and concerns.

If holding an event around a given topic then a language/terminology guide may be useful to ensure equal understanding and sensitive use of language.

3. Respect personal preferences

When you set up the event, use default settings where the mic is muted and the video off. This allows people to opt into what they feel most comfortable with. Don't force anyone to show their face or speak or type if they don't want to - they should contribute in a way that suits them best.

4. Allow for processing time

Some people may take longer to process information and may take longer to type or speak. It is worth explaining this at the start of the call, so that the pace of the meeting is appropriate, and people are given the best chance to respond. You may wish to use a function that allows the moderator to bring people into the conversation, this can allow everyone to have a say - not just those who speak first. Zoom has a 'hand up' function to make this easier. The moderator can also voice comments that are added on chat after a point has been made. With many online event tools, you can choose to record the discussion - this is a good idea for people who may need time to process information - and for anyone who misses things.

5. Consider physical disabilities

Some people may use a screen reader to tell them verbally what is going on the screen. Some may have physical difficulties with typing or using a mouse. Bear all these things in mind. The best way to allow for these needs is to ask in advance what would help the individual and have a practice call if necessary.

6. Try captioning

Providing live captions can help people to follow what is being said. Zoom allows for closed captioning but it requires manual typing. Microsoft Teams has an automatic captioning feature.

7. Allow more than one form of communication

Some host sites allow users to contribute by text as well as over video. Some attendees may prefer to communicate in writing. Equally, it may be useful for one attendee to minute the meeting in a text box, allowing attendees the option of reading or listening. Participants may find it useful to have any questions (even if quick ones) repeated in writing using the chat function so they can refer to them when answering.

Zoom has a non-verbal communication option that can be enabled where people can press buttons for each of the following, which will show on their screen to all participants and the host can see a summary of how many are pressed: yes, no, speed up, slow down, need a break, gone away, like, dislike, clap.

8. Make your presentation accessible

Make sure there is a spare facilitator who can focus on the accessibility issues.

If you are using accessibility features, consider testing in advance with disabled delegates.

Make sure everyone has their name set as their actual name and if using a platform like zoom that allows for easy name changing, ask them to put their job title, institution or company in brackets next to their name.

Describe the key content of all slides. For some webinars you may prepare a transcript. The appropriate paragraphs can be pasted into the text chat pane or another communication channel.

Build in points for the facilitator to summarise key threads both spoken and in the text chat pane. It is also a chance to invite people to comment.

The facilitator can use private communication with certain individuals (instant message or phone) to check all is OK. You may need to enable private chat for the facilitator but disable for other.

Some events may warrant clapping at the end, but this can be overwhelming for autistic people. You could sugget flappause - waving both hands without making a noise.

9. Follow up after

It is a good idea to send delegates a summary of the text chat and key points after the event. This allows those who need more processing time to catch up and to feedback any additional points. It's also a chance to ask if anyone missed anything.

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Guide to making your online events accessible for autistic people. | Autistica

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Virtual meetings and web-based events or webinars can be a great way to connect with people and share information. They are being used more than ever during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. It's important to make these events accessible for all. This guide is aimed at event or meeting hosts.