The Guinness Storehouse has been accredited by Ireland’s National Autism Charity, AsIAm, as a certified autism-friendly attraction.
The Storehouse will hold sensory friendly hours from January 2024 on the first Wednesday of every month, from 9am to 12pm.
Adjustments
The inititative will enable autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals to partake in the Guinness experience with lower capacities and noise and light reductions.
Furthermore, higher sensory areas will be marked.
'Unforgettable Memories'
“This accreditation is an example of how the Guinness Storehouse team is working with partners to ensure that our attractions are accessible for all guests, and to help everyone create unforgettable memories at our experiences," said Catherine Toolan, Diageo Irish brand homes managing director.
“It has been enlightening for our staff to work with AsIAm to receive extensive autism sensivity and awareness training, which will help the way we interact with all visitors, but especially those with sensory sensitivities.”
Customised Tours
AsIAm conducted reviews of the visitor attractions to provide recommendations to increase accessibility and help visitors prepare for their visit, including sensory guide signage, customised tours, and adaptions to the customer experience.
The sensory-friendly experience has been trialled at the Guinness Storehouse ahead of the launch on Tuesday, November 7.
Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny
The sensory friendly experiences will also be available at Roe & Co Distillery and Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny.
To complete this certification, employees completed training to better understand and welcome autistic people, their families, and those with sensory processing differences.
'Inclusive And Welcoming'
“It has been a pleasure working with the team to educate their staff, assess the environments and to help enhance these amazing experiences to ensure that autistic visitors, their families, and those who process the sensory environment differently, get the same chance to enjoy these wonderful visitor attractions," said Adam Harris, AsIAm CEO.
"These partnerships with industry leaders are essential to create more inclusive and welcoming experiences for all.”
