Liverpool John Lennon Airport has opened a new sensory space in its departure lounge in collaboration with its passenger assistance partner ABM. The aim is to help those passengers with sensory or cognitive impairment to relax and acclimatise to the busy airport environment before they travel.
The sensory space cost over £35,000 to develop and offers a calming, therapeutic and relaxing space for children and adults with autism and other special needs and has been created in partnership with local community business Autism Adventures and Alder Hey Hospital, with specialist advice helping to create a space that caters for families living with autism.
“We know that heading off on holiday and being able to enjoy the journey can be challenging for some of our passengers, particularly families with someone who has a sensory or cognitive impairment,” said Paul Staples, Operations Director, Liverpool John Lennon Airport. “This space is a great facility and we would like to thank Autism Adventures and Alder Hey Hospital for all their help and advice in creating this space, which we’re confident will make a difference, helping families have a more relaxed start to their journey. By working with a host of disability organisations, we have continued the work we have been doing to enable passengers with a wide range of disabilities to take advantage of flying from Liverpool.”
The development of a sensory space at the airport forms part of work carried out in partnership with a host of disability organisations who provide advice and support, including many that specialise in hidden disabilities.
The sensory space is wheelchair accessible and located near the picnic area in the departure lounge and is open for bookings between 08:00 and 18:00 daily.
“We’re delighted to collaborate with Liverpool John Lennon Airport and introduce a sensory space to help passengers with sensory or cognitive impairment,” said Jim Niblock, ABM Aviation Managing Director. “ABM is dedicated to ensuring the airport experience is positive for everyone, and this new setting reaffirms our commitment to inclusivity.”
