Geelong Leisurelink introduces sensory quiet space

Leisurelink Aquatic and Recreation Centre in Geelong is a more inclusive and accessible place for people seeking a quieter environment for swimming following the implementation of a sensory quiet time in the aquatics area each Sunday afternoon.

Seeking to assist members and patrons with sensory needs to feel more comfortable, the City of Greater Geelong has worked with Victoria’s Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS) - a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Partner in the Community - to deliver the space between 4:30pm and 5:45pm.

Features of the sensory quiet time include:

• No music played across the centre during this time

• Public address announcements avoided

• Hand dryers switched off

• Phones turned down

• Soothing music to start and end the session

• Lights dimmed where possible and

• Blinds utilised to reduce glare.

In addition, participants are encouraged to use membership cards for scanning, to avoid queueing.

Physical signage is present to alert the public as part of an educational promotion, along with the use of social media, website, and brochures to keep patrons informed. Five accessible changerooms are available, two of which have adjustable tables, hoists and slings.

Welcoming the initiative, Greater Geelong Mayor, Trent Sullivan advised that the sensory quiet space “is a positive step forward in making Greater Geelong a more inclusive place to live.

“We know that all of the busyness and noise of a vibrant aquatic and recreation centre can be quite overwhelming for some people.

“The City is delighted to offer a time and space to ensure the centre is suitable to visitors with additional sensory needs in what can be an active environment.”

Tanika Hammond - NDIS Community Capacity Building Coordinator, added “accessible communities create inclusive societies, but it's up to all of us to be part of that change; moreover, given the amount of water in our region, it's vital that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy aquatic activities and learn to swim.”

Image: The main pool at Leisurelink. Credit: City of Greater Geelong.