Expand the accessibility and sensory experiences of university hospitality and study spaces for neurodivergent students.

Lead Officer: Izzy Downer, Community Officer

What is the issue about?

Recruitment for neurodivergent students increases each year, with most finding university outlets sensory challenging. 68% of students that took part in research on sensory experiences on campus reported to have experienced sensory distress or discomfort, with 33.33% of these students experiencing sensory distress frequently. Therefore, we must acknowledge the diverse sensory needs of the student population and improve the accessibility of facilities to enable full participation of neurodivergent students.  

This means it is essential to collaborate with the university on expanding our quiet areas and times and improving overall sensory experiences in hospitality and study spaces.

What are we asking the University to do?

We are asking the University for a revaluation of current environmental aspects of outlets that negatively affect the accessibility of neurodivergent students.   

We are calling for environmental modifications to outlets. This includes partitions, adjusted lighting, plant features and wallpaper changes to help reduce sensory stimuli and support emotional regulation. Similarly, adequate navigational signage in hospitality is necessary to reduce levels on anxiety and provide structure and predictability. The Signage for the Quiet areas and times must also be enhanced through language and design that promotes and encourages others to respect these. Adjustments to The Sensory Room must be made to create a space that allows emotional regulation and stimulation through visual engagement and tactile stimuli.  

What will success look like?

Updates