Community partner Wests Tigers establish Autism Friendly space for families at BankWest Stadium
05 Jun 2019
Following the successes of last year, WestConnex Community Partner the Wests Tigers has established a new autism friendly space for families for upcoming home games at BankWest Stadium.
WestConnex CEO Andrew Head said one of the key achievements of the community partnership with the Wests Tigers in 2018 was the launch of an autism friendly space at Wests Tigers home games at ANZ Stadium, which provided a quite breakout space for children with autism and their families to enjoy the football.
“We're delighted that due to overwhelming success and demand, this NRL-first initiative will be available to families again this year at upcoming home games at the new BankWest Stadium in Parramatta,” Mr Head said.
The Wests Tigers game against the Canberra Raiders on Friday 7 June will be the first time a quiet breakout room will be in operation at the stadium, with the space also available at upcoming home games against the Rabbitohs, Roosters and Eels being held in June and July.
For children with autism, crowds and loud noises can be overwhelming, which can often prevent children and their families from coming along to football games. Providing this space is giving children and families the ability to experience an NRL game, something that they may not have previously been able to do.
Wests Tigers Foundation Manager Laura Smith said the feedback from families about the joint initiative between WestConnex, Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT) and the Wests Tigers had been overwhelmingly positive, with around 200 children utilising the space at selected matches last year.
“This is providing families with access to a calming space and inclusive environment which caters for the needs of these special children and their families, allowing more people to enjoy the experience of an NRL game without the stress that usually accompanies attending such a stimulating event,” Ms Smith said. “We're pleased to have the support from WestConnex whose involvement and contributions have allowed us to engage all parts of the community."
“As a direct result of their support we've seen tremendous growth in our community programs and initiatives which is something we've very proud of.”
Families wanting to find out more about the Autism Friendly room can contact the Wests Tigers at community@weststigers.com.au The Wests Tigers game against the Canberra Raiders on Friday 7 June will be the first time a quiet breakout room will be in operation at the stadium
