Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny has partnered with Ireland’s National Autism Charity, AsIAm, to offer sensory-friendly hours and ensure that autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals can visit the Kilkenny city centre site with confidence.
The 300 year-old brewery site will offer one sensory morning a month to begin and will increase the offering, pending further demand.
Similar sensory-friendly hours are also being made available from January at other Diageo visitor sites at the Guinness Storehouse and Roe & Co Distillery.
AsIAm Accreditation
As an accredited AsIAm visitor attraction, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny will provide designated low-sensory tours.
Ignacio Peregrina, manager of Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, said, “This accreditation is an example of how the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny team, and teams at our other sites, are working with partners to ensure that our attractions are accessible for all guests, and to help everyone create unforgettable memories at our experiences.
“It has been enlightening for our team to work with AsIAm to receive extensive autism sensitivity and awareness training, which will help the way we interact with all visitors, but especially those with sensory sensitivities.”
Noise And Light Reduction
The first tour/early hours of selected sensory friendly days will include noise and light reduction.
This will involve turning down music, dimming lighting, and more.
Adam Harris, AsIAm CEO, added, “These partnerships with industry leaders are essential to create more inclusive and welcoming experiences for all.”
Sensory Kits
All three experiences will offer one free carer ticket per customer, if required, as well as sensory kits at their reception areas, along with visual guides of the buildings and sensory maps year round.
During the designated sensory-friendly tours, additional signage will be placed around the buildings, marking high sensory areas.
Staff at all three Diageo visitor sites have been trained by AsIAm.ie to better understand how to cater to customers with autism or neuro divergencies.
