Sensory program for swim and gym centre

AS part of a new trial, the Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre will be much more peaceful at certain periods throughout the week.

Testing Sensory Quiet Time, BALC will sometimes be less stimulating than it usually is to benefit customers that may experience sensory stress and anxiety.

The complex will be dimming lights, reducing radio volume and background sounds as much as possible, and BALC centre manager, Michael Riseley said his team is excited for patrons to experience the initiative.

“Our team takes pride in the accessibility of the centre, ensuring we’re always on the look out to keep improving the centre and our programs, to meet the needs of all members of the community,” he said.

“We’ve been working closely with our key stakeholders to increase accessibility to the centre for people who would benefit from sensory quiet times and making sure we have programs to increase their independence and confidence.

“We know sensory friendly environments are essential to many people with an autism spectrum disorder and their families, and we’re delighted we can provide regular sensory quiet time slots for our patrons.”

Created with feedback and ideas from BALC users and consultation with Ballarat Autism Network, Central Highlands NDIS Local Area Coordination Service and Sports Central, gymnastics and aquatic education programs will run especially designed for people needing sensory quiet periods.

Balance Play for 18-month olds to five year olds will run in the gymnastics hall, and Access Water Play, a pool playgroup, is set for one to five year olds. Swimming lessons will be available too.

Sensory Quiet Times are planned for Saturdays at 7.30am to 8.30am, Monday to Friday from 3pm to 3.45pm, Tuesdays at 2.15pm to 3.45pm, and Wednesdays from 8am to 9.30am.