More than 100 learners and staff have taken part in an immersive autism awareness event.
The Autism Reality Experience Bus visited the Heart of Worcestershire College’s Worcester and Bromsgrove campuses last month.
The experience offered a hands-on simulation designed to deepen understanding of sensory overload and daily challenges faced by some autistic individuals.
Funded by Platform Housing Group’s Diversity Grants programme and delivered by Training 2 Care, the experience used sound, visuals, and sensory simulation to help participants better understand the realities of living with autism.
In total, 107 learners and staff took part across the two-day event.
Tom Piotrowski, equality, diversity and inclusion manager at Platform Housing Group, said: “We were delighted to support Heart of Worcestershire College through our Diversity Grants programme and to help bring this innovative experience to learners and staff.
“Projects like this play an important role in raising awareness of neurodiversity, encouraging understanding and helping create environments where everyone feels valued, respected and included.
“We know that some autistic people can face barriers in education, employment and everyday life, so increasing awareness and understanding is incredibly important.”
The feedback from participants highlighted just how powerful the experience had been.
One learner said: “I now have a better understanding of how I feel when I get overstimulated and know that I’m not the only one who feels that way.”
A staff member described it as a “really worthwhile experience.”
Madeline Cozens, personal development and careers co-ordinator at Heart of Worcestershire College, said: “The Autism Reality Experience gave our learners and staff a unique opportunity to better understand the experiences of autistic people and the impact sensory overload can have on everyday life.
“The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants reflecting on how the experience will influence their behaviour, awareness and support for others in the future.
“We are extremely grateful to Platform Housing Group for supporting the project through its Diversity Grants programme and helping us continue our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every learner can thrive.”