The Cabbage Patch, in Twickenham, is hosting a sensory friendly screening of the England v Wales Six Nations match on 15th March, another step to becoming a more inclusive pub.
The Cabbage Patch pub, in Twickenham
This will be the first screening of its kind at The Cabbage Patch and will see the match shown live in a separate room to the rest of the pub, with subtle changes to the viewing environment.
This will include subtitles on one of the three televisions, no adverts, lower-than-usual sound levels, and fidget toys and noise blockers, such as earplugs, available.
These changes aim to help people with sensory difficulties have a more positive experience than they may have in a traditional pub setting. This gives an opportunity to watch the match with friends and family while still enjoying the pub experience.
For a number of years, general manager Stuart Green has worked closely with local organisations, such as Choice Support, and Fuller’s charity partner Special Olympics GB, to offer employment opportunities to people who are neurodiverse or who have intellectual disabilities.
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He said: “The Cabbage Patch is already world famous for rugby, and I want us to become famous for being an inclusive environment, too. This sensory-friendly screening brings together everything that we’re passionate about here at The Patch, ensuring everyone can enjoy rugby in a way that they find safe and comfortable.
“Having worked with a number of people with autism and other intellectual disabilities, I’ve seen how important it is to those individuals to have spaces like this, that help cater to sensory difficulties. It’s also so important to their families, to have a space where they can come together, socialise, and have a good time.
“If this adapted screening goes well, I will definitely look at hosting similar events for the upcoming Women’s Six Nations matches. I realise that not every pub will have the space or capacity to follow suit, but hopefully it will lead to more venues undertaking similar sensory friendly screenings.”
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