A new ‘calming oasis’ has been unveiled at Bristol Airport, with the opening of its immersive sensory room designed to create a stress-free environment for passengers with autism, dementia, or cognitive impairment.
The new sensory room will provide a relaxing environment for passengers and their family members/carers, who might feel overwhelmed in unfamiliar surroundings.
Bristol Airport (BRS) has become one of the few airports in the UK to open a purpose-built sensory room. The new sensory room at Bristol Airport is specifically designed for customers with autism, dementia or cognitive impairment and provides a safe, private, and interactive space for customers to feel relaxed when in unfamiliar surroundings.
Designed by Fun & Function, the sensory room is tailored made to be a soothing and peaceful place away from the activity of a busy airport. It includes facilities such as a colour column, infinity tunnel, padded seats, colour changing LEDs, and a wheel projector. Fun & Function is a leading provider of inclusive solutions and provides sensory rooms for classrooms, homes, and businesses.
The free-to-use, wheelchair accessible sensory room is located in the Special Assistance area in the departure lounge. Open daily between 04:00 and 21:00, customers can book a 45-minute session through the booking system on Bristol Airport’s website.
Richard Thomasson, Head of Customer Operations at Bristol Airport said: “The new sensory room at Bristol Airport will make a huge difference in the lives of those travelling with autism, dementia, or cognitive impairment for themselves, their carers and accompanying family.
“An airport can be a busy and stressful environment, therefore having a safe and interactive place for children and adults, will help to reduce anxiety before boarding their flights and is an invaluable asset in reducing stress.
“We are committed in providing the best possible experience for all our customers and we hope the new sensory room will provide a comforting place for passengers who might feel overwhelmed in unfamiliar surroundings.”
Aviva Weiss, CEO and Founder of Fun and Function commented: “This sensory room opens the skies to travelers, providing a calming oasis within the airport. The experience is immersive, easing stress for families with autism or other challenges.”
