Sensory rooms
We’re proud to offer the use of two sensory rooms on matchdays at Meadow Lane, providing a safe and comfortable environment for supporters with complex learning difficulties to enjoy a brilliant view of the action.
Situated alongside our executive boxes in the Haydn Green Family Stand, our sensory rooms are manned by expert volunteers (Sam Neal, Bev Verney and Harry Wrightson), who are suitably experienced and on hand to provide support to those using the facility.
However, our volunteers are unable to provide dedicated caring support so it’s important that parents/carers retain full supervision of their sensory room user at all times.
Rooms one and four are currently undergoing maintenance, but the following facilities are available to book for each match:
Sensory room two
This room provides resources which calm people using light, sound and touch, such as a bubble tube, fibre-optics, eight-colour controller, Milky Way fibre-optic carpet and a laser sky projector. Beanbags and pillows also provide a relaxing environment.
Sensory room three
More minimalist than room two, this is a good alternative to watching from the stands and may be of most interest to older service users. The room offers greatly reduced noise and a more private and controlled setting. Beanbags and toys can be added at users’ request.
Booking process
Each sensory room can be hired for £50.
The capacity of each room is eight people, of which a maximum of four will have complex learning difficulties.
No physical tickets will be distributed but the lead booker and guest names will be added to the executive box guestlist and will be checked in upon arrival.
Once booked, you will receive a sensory room itinerary which will outline details of your matchday with us.
To book or arrange a viewing, please contact cj.smith@nottscountyfc.co.uk or call 0115 952 9000.
Background
In a ceremony which also saw the club sign the Autism Alliance charter, the rooms were officially opened ahead of the 2016-17 Sky Bet League Two match against Grimsby Town.
The club launched the project after seeking advice from a number of specialists including Autism East Midlands, Rompa, the Shippey campaign and Indigo to ensure the rooms would fully meet the needs of those with complex learning difficulties.
The idea was first floated by Debbie Austin, Specialist Awareness Trainer at Autism East Midlands.
She said: "Typically it would perhaps be one area or room, but here at Notts County there is an array of rooms – not only for people with sensory issues, but a room for parents as well.
"I am a woman on the autism spectrum, so I know myself that noise and crowded spaces can be overwhelming.
“People with this type of condition, who would otherwise have stayed away, can now be a part of the game.
"It feels extremely supportive. I think it's wonderful."
Case studies
