Learning disabilities support provider Dimensions teamed up with the charity Film Education to host a free film screening for children with autism.
It is the second year of the partnership, organised to mark International Autism Awareness Month. The annual free school screenings are organised to help improve cinema access for school children who have autism.
Small adjustments make a big difference
Dimensions’ autism lead, Lisa Hopkins, said: “Dimensions is delighted to be partnering with Film Education once again to make the cinema-going experience more accessible to children with autism.
“Initiatives such as this require small adjustments that make a big difference to people who experience autism and show just what can be achieved when education and industry come together.”
The free cinema event for school children was held today [April 24] with special screenings of Ice Age 4, supplied by Twentieth Century Fox, across more than 60 cinemas. Two cinema chains took part – ODEON and Vue.
Subtle alterations to cinema auditorium
This event was aimed specifically at students with autism and sensory differences that would benefit from the subtle alterations made to the cinema auditorium. During the special screening lights were left on low, the volume was turned down and people could move around the cinema or make noise as they feel comfortable.
James Lennox, managing director of Film Education, said: “Film Education, in partnership with cinemas and film distributors, is passionately committed to providing children and young people within the autism spectrum, as well as those with sensory impairment and physical disabilities, the opportunities to engage with film and enjoy the cinema experience.”
