"For people like me, being in public places can sometimes be overwhelming. Loud noises and busy environments can feel disorientating and stressful.

 

It would really help if there were designated quiet times or areas with reduced noise in more places. Sensory rooms would be great too — I find things like coloured lights really calming.

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Sometimes, activities aren’t explained clearly, or everything happens too fast. I went to a jumping activity at a farm once, and I didn’t have enough time to understand what I was meant to do. I got rushed, and because I didn’t do it 'right' the first time, I had to do it again.

 

That made me feel anxious.

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If there was more awareness about disabilities like mine, it would make a big difference. Simple things like clear signs and visual instructions would help a lot."

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- Phoenix, Autistic, 15 years-old

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"As a mother of an autistic child, I would love to see greater awareness and understanding of neurodivergent people. One of the hardest things we face isn’t just navigating public spaces — it’s dealing with the reactions of others. People can stare, make rude comments, or simply don’t understand.

 

That can be incredibly upsetting and stressful, both for us and for our children.

 

The biggest issue is a general lack of tolerance for anyone who seems ‘different’. I once went to a library to get advice about Disability Living Allowance and overheard someone say, ‘I don’t see why kids these days have all these labels — autism and ADHD — it’s just an excuse for bad behaviour.’

 

Hearing something like that, especially in a place meant to offer support, was heartbreaking. I thought: what if my son had heard that? 

 

There needs to be more awareness of invisible disabilities like autism. More visual aids, better staff training , and public education — even short courses or workshops — could help build more inclusive, understanding communities.

 

I feel people who work in public spaces should take a course that highlights how to recognise and support Neurodivergent individuals to navigate the environment.

 

Finally, it would also be wonderful if more public places could provide calm spaces specifically designed for neurodivergent individuals — somewhere to reset and feel safe when things get overwhelming."

 

- Louise, mother of Pheonix