The significance of Silent Hour
Belgravia Foundation, in collaboration with Belgravia Leisure, has been at the forefront of pioneering inclusive practices across several leisure venues, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to connect with leisure activities. This effort is notably prominent at venues such as:
Ascot Vale Leisure Centre
Civic Reserve Recreation Centre
Franklin Pool and Leisure Centre
Knox Leisureworks
Mill Park Leisure Centre
Monbulk Aquatic Centre
Pelican Park Recreation Centre
Yarra Centre
YAWA Aquatic Centre
Each location has implemented specific initiatives to accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities, primarily through the creation of low-sensory environments during designated hours, known as Silent Hour.
The approach adopted by Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure includes more than just periodic adjustments; it encompasses a holistic strategy to educate and involve local teams at each venue in understanding and catering to the diverse needs of all community members.
By focusing on creating inclusive spaces, Belgravia Foundation ensures that these venues are not just places for physical activity but also hubs of social inclusion. They offer a sanctuary where individuals with various sensory and accessibility needs can feel welcomed and integrated into the community. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to social responsibility and community well-being, emphasising that access to leisure and recreation should be a universal right, not a privilege.
The collaboration between Belgravia Foundation and local teams has been instrumental in not just implementing these initiatives but also in fostering a culture of inclusivity within each venue. This partnership approach ensures that each venue can tailor its offerings to the specific needs of its community, enhancing the effectiveness of the programs.
These initiatives are bolstered by partnerships with organisations like Different Journeys, leading to the creation of Autism Swim Nights. These events are carefully designed to provide a non-judgmental and safe space for individuals with autism and their families. During these swim nights, typical water features that might cause distress are turned off, and the environment is adjusted to ensure it is as low stimulating as possible. This allows families who might otherwise avoid crowded public pools during peak times to engage in aquatic activities without stress. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting how these nights facilitate much-needed social connections. Participants report a significant benefit from the environment that allows them to interact with others in similar situations, where children and adults alike can play and socialise in the water, such as engaging in gentle games like ‘piggy in the middle’. With supported trainings for staff about Autism awareness and the consistent engagement every month, Lifeguards developed connection with participants after the events during dinner where participants grew comfortable to sit and join them.
At venues across the Mornington Penisula Low Sensory has been received positively from community members. Feedback from one member, Briony said, “It’s great to have something that is inclusive for all members.” Another member, Ethan, who utilises the recovery sessions after his soccer matches, expressed his appreciation for the quiet environment, “I enjoy the quiet time as it adds to my recovery.”
Charlotte, a member who was recently diagnosed with Autism, found peace in the sessions and suggested a small adjustment, “I really enjoy the session and it would be good if I could request music to be turned down at other times as well.”
The success of such programs is built on thorough research and a responsive approach to community needs, ensuring interventions are evidence-based and consulted with community. Positive outcomes from these initiatives underscore their value and drive further investment in similar projects.
Click the links to hear the relevant stories of inclusion from local members:
Jo Jo – Ascot Vale Leisure Centre
Jacob – YAWA Aquatic Centre
