Autism friendly award for Cookstown’s Burnavon theatre

COOKSTOWN’S popular Burnavon Arts Centre has been recognised for creating a more ‘Autism friendly environment’ for their customers.

Last week, the theatre received the Autism NI Autism Impact Award, after they carried out training and made adaptions, which has helped staff become better equipped to understand any customers who have Autism Spectrum Disorder and how to adapt the environment to support them.

Chairperson of the council, Cllr Paul McLean said the achievement was “a real testament to all the team within the Burnavon, demonstrating that they understand the importance of making our facilities more accessible to all”.

He added, “I warmly congratulate them, and look forward to seeing their efforts result in providing an even higher quality customer service for the Autism community.”

Christine Kearney who is the director of development Autism NI and presented the award, said, “It was a pleasure to present the Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre with the Autism Impact Award. As a result of their efforts in learning, and undertaking a number of adaptions within the facility, Burnavon staff are now more aware of what Autism is and how to provide a more inclusive service to autistic people and their families.”

The award comes, as the Burnavon plays host to a stunning exhibition featuring over 100 pieces of artwork created by autistic pupils from post-primary schools across Northern Ireland.

Last week, the Education Minister, Michelle McIlveen visited the showcase entitled ‘What Autism Means’ which celebrates the pupil voice, and provides an opportunity for the wider community to increase their knowledge, understanding and acceptance of autism.

The exhibition at the Burnavon which is being organised by AAIS will run until April 2. It also serves to highlight and celebrate Autism Awareness Month in April.