CALMSENSORYROOM

In 2022, PHF and FFC piloted the Calm Sensory Room to enable people with sensory issues an opportunity to experience football at Optus Stadium. PHF worked closely with Venues Live and the Autism Association of Western Australia (Autism WA) to create a space within the stadium that was accessible to people with sensory needs during Fremantle Dockers home games The room provided a calm, quiet environment with a range of sensory and tactile resources, where those experiencing sensory overload could come and use the space to regulate and manage their needs in a safe and private environment

Autism WA designed the varied sensory zones across the space and provided trained staff to help manage the room during games The space was piloted across five home games and more than 100 people utilised the room The majority of people who used the space provided feedback, which has informed the development and design of the space for 2023 The Calm Sensory Room will be available at all Fremantle Dockers home games in 2023

“I never thought I would see a room like this for me at a football game ”

“As soon as I walked in, I immediately felt calmer, so it definitely works!”

“Our family has never been able to go to a football game because we just didn’t know how “James” would be able to handle the noise and the crowds Now, we know that we can go, and we will have a safe space to go to ”

“It is so good that Fremantle and Purple Hands Foundation are providing this space for its fans ”

“Overall my son thought it was so good as he was feeling a bit overwhelmed with the siren and the crowd He just needed a short time to calm down in a quiet place and then he was happy to go back out to watch some more ”