Leisurelink to provide a place for all

LEISURELINK Aquatic and Recreation Centre is a more inclusive and accessible place for all thanks to a new sensory quiet areas across the facility.

The City of Greater Geelong led initiative will assist members and patrons with sensory needs to feel greater comfort and safety.

Those seeking a quieter environment for swimming will be able to do so in the aquatics area each Sunday afternoon from 4:30-5:45pm.

Features of the sensory quiet time include; no music played across the centre, public address announcements avoided, hand dryers switched off, phones turned down, soothing music to start and end sessions, lights dimmed, and blinds utilised to reduce glare.

Physical signage will be present to alert the public as part of an educational promotion, along with the use of social media, website, and brochures to keep patrons informed.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan welcomed the addition of the sensory quiet spaces.

“We know that all of the busyness and noise of a vibrant aquatic and recreation centre can be quite overwhelming for some people.

“The City is delighted to offer a time and space to ensure the centre is suitable to visitors with additional sensory needs in what can be an active environment.”

The City will work with Latrobe Community Health Service (LCHS) – a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Partner in the Community – to deliver the space.

NDIS Community Capacity Building Coordinator, LCHS, Tanika Hammond said she was delighted with the initiative.

“Accessible communities create inclusive societies, but it’s up to all of us to be part of that change; moreover, given the amount of water in our region, it’s vital that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy aquatic activities and learn to swim.

“It’s been a pleasure working side-by-side with the City to make this shared space even more accessible for people with unique sensory needs.

“LCHS is on hand to help even more businesses, organisations and community members implement changes that can make a world of difference to employees and customers with disability.