Accessibility information

1. Overview: The 3 Town-Wide Calm Spaces

To make Northamptonshire Day in Kettering truly accessible, three coordinated spaces form The Calm Spaces network across the event footprint. 

Staff should direct visitors to the nearest suitable calm space, avoiding unnecessary travel through high-density crowds, live music or busy market areas. The table below compares each location, its facilities and the visitors it is best suited to support.

2. The library space and its use

The BIPC Meeting Room provides a low-arousal environment for visitors experiencing sensory overload, anxiety or difficulty regulating. Staff should protect the room from unnecessary noise, bright light and avoidable interruptions.

Who uses this space

• Autistic and neurodivergent individuals experiencing sensory overload from crowd noise, visual movement, or music
• People with ADHD, anxiety, or trauma histories who need a low-stimulus environment to self-regulate
• Anyone experiencing panic or distress who requires a safe, quiet space to ground themselves
• Families and children needing a brief quiet break before rejoining festival activities

Core principle: Access is based on need, not diagnosis. Do not ask visitors to disclose a condition, provide evidence or justify their use of the space.

3. Room setup: low sensory versus active regulation

Sensory needs vary: some people need a low-stimulation environment, while others need active sensory input to feel grounded.

• De-stimulation zone (Low Input): 

  Dim/warm lighting, blackout pop-up tents, floor mats, and noise-cancelling ear defenders.

• Active regulation zone (Grounding Input): 

  Weighted lap pads, cleanable silicone fidgets, wobble cushions, and liquid timers.

4. Protecting the space and ensuring safety

To maintain the BIPC Meeting Room as a genuine, quiet sanctuary, staff must safeguard it from becoming a general waiting area, lunch spot, or social hub.

Entry Protocols & Gatekeeping:

Active gatekeeping: Assign a designated team member or volunteer to remain near the glass door whenever the space is open.

Capacity limit: Maintain the agreed limit of 6–8 people. When the room reaches capacity, explain this calmly and direct visitors to the nearest suitable alternative via the quietest route.

Gentle Redirects: If general event visitors attempt to enter to eat, view exhibits, or take calls, gently redirect them.

“This room is a dedicated quiet sensory space for those who need a break from the noise. For general seating or exhibits, please ask a member of the event team for directions to the nearest suitable area.”

Space rules:

Low Volume & Silent Phones: Phones must be set to silent; voices kept to a soft whisper.

Food and drinks: Do not allow food or drinks in the room, except water. This helps keep the space free from strong smells and discourages its use as a general social area.

If the room reaches capacity, ask where the visitor is heading and direct them to the nearest suitable alternative, The Yards Calm Space or the Outdoor SEN Space, using the quietest available route.

5. Staff checklist

Keep Glass Door Closed: Retain the BIPC room's built-in sound insulation.

Maintain Visual Privacy: Ensure internal screens remain in place behind the glass door to shield visitors from passersby.

Be a Calm Presence: Speak softly, avoid hovering or forcing eye contact, and offer gentle assistance.

Know the map: Be ready to explain where Elliot’s Play Café SEN & Calm Space and the Outdoor SEN Space are, and how to reach them by the quietest available route.