MORE THAN 100 learners and staff at Heart of Worcestershire College have taken part in an immersive autism awareness experience thanks to funding from Platform Housing Group.
The Autism Reality Experience Bus visited the college’s Worcester and Bromsgrove campuses last month after the college secured support through Platform’s Diversity Grants programme.
Delivered by specialist organisation Training 2 Care, the experience uses sound, visuals and sensory simulation to help participants better understand how some autistic people experience everyday environments.
The interactive session encourages empathy, awareness and greater understanding of neurodiversity by recreating the challenges of sensory overload.
A total of 107 learners and staff took part across the two day event, with feedback highlighting the powerful impact the experience had on participants.
Madeline Cozens, personal development and careers co-ordinator at Heart of Worcestershire College said: “The Autism Reality Experience gave our learners and staff a unique opportunity to better understand the experiences of autistic people and the impact sensory overload can have on everyday life.
“The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants reflecting on how the experience will influence their behaviour, awareness and support for others in the future.
“We are extremely grateful to Platform Housing Group for supporting the project through its Diversity Grants programme and helping us continue our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.”
Tom Piotrowski, equality, diversity and inclusion manager at Platform Housing Group said: “We were delighted to support Heart of Worcestershire College through our Diversity Grants programme and to help bring this innovative experience to learners and staff.
“Projects like this play an important role in raising awareness of neurodiversity, encouraging understanding and helping create environments where everyone feels valued, respected and included.
“We know that some autistic people can face barriers in education, employment and everyday life, so increasing awareness and understanding is incredibly important. The feedback from participants shows just how impactful this experience has been.”
