Supporters using the Racecourse Ground’s Sensory Room on match days during the 2021/22 season can look forward to enjoying a revamped and improved quiet area.
Part of the Club’s commitment to being autism friendly – having officially become an Autism Friendly Stadium in August 2018 – the sensory room has been upgraded with new decoration and new equipment.
Located in the Mold Road Stand, behind our autism-friendly section in block PG1 at the Kop end of the stand, the sensory room offers a space for supporters with autism to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the concourse and stand.
Improvements include a new mural of the Mold Road Stand, painted by local artist Ellie Humphreys.
Donations from local companies, and volunteer work has also contributed to the huge upgrade of the room.
Kerry Roberts, manager of the Wrexham Branch of the National Autistic Society, has donated a bubble fish lamp, while WREXRENT have donated an LED light-up sensory board.
Kerry said of Wrexham’s work to support supporters with autism: “The Sensory Hub is an amazing addition for the Football Club. It has something for everybody’s needs, including siblings and families of supporters with autism.
“The ground is so noisy, it might be overwhelming, and the sensory hub gives a little bit of time out.
“The stand is full of familiar faces, and it’s very supportive to families like mine. I think there’s a bit there for everybody.”
The room also boasts sensory toys, books, bean bags and lights, with each item chosen specifically to benefit different users of the room.
The sensory room also boasts new electricals, including a new TV, heater, LED lighting and plugs generously donated by Matthew Scott at Barlows Electrical.
He said: “It was great to work with the club and Kerry on this project to help bring additional enjoyment to the great experience children already have at the racecourse.
The work carried out shows our great bond with the club as a sponsor and supporter on what looks like an exciting ride ahead.”
Mike White, of White and Williams, upgraded the room by installing – free of charge – a false roof, insulation, work surface and redecorating work, while new flooring was donated by Steven Griffiths of Ruthin’s Castle Mews Carpets.
Mike said: “When I got the call, we were keen to get involved with this special project was due to the fact that it’s something very close to our hearts and and it’s such an integral part of the Club’s structure within the community.
“We are delighted to make more and more people of all abilities feel comfortable at our amazing football club.”
Steven added: “As soon as Michael White asked me to get involved with this project we pushed other work around to help out immediately as I have had personal experiences working with children on the autistic spectrum, and we feel it important to help out friends whenever possible.”
The Sensory Room is just one part of the Club’s Autism Friendly offerings.
Wrexham AFC also host quiet walkabout sessions during the season, as well as a designated quiet zone in the Mold Road Stand.
Supporters in the stand can make use of a double doorway accessible entrance, while familiar-face stewards are on hand to welcome supporters.
Waitress service is available in the seats, while the Club’s red blankets are supplied to supporters, as well as ponchos for wet weather, ear defenders and autism packs for regular visitors.
To find more about the Club’s autism-friendly offering, please contact DLO Kerry Evans at Kerry.evans@wrexhamfc.tv.