NEURODIVERSE people seeking new connections are invited to take part in an inclusive friend-dating event in the garden room of Oscar\u2019s Hotel next week.<\/p>\n
Set for the evening of Wednesday 13 December, the initiative is being led by Melba Support Services, and inclusion consultant Kate Taylor said it\u2019s about supporting people to foster new friendships.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is really exciting because we believe it\u2019s the first neurodiversity speed dating event to be held in Ballarat,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s definitely got a twist on the conventional format. Firstly, it\u2019s not just for romantic dating, it\u2019s for people to find friends and social connections too, in an environment that is tailored to be neurodiversity friendly.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have lived experience organising this event, two of the team are neurodiverse, and the night will kick off with an education session on communications, hosted by another of our team, Melissa Webster, who is the CEO of ADHD Australia.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe venue is also inclusive. It\u2019s wheelchair accessible, and it will be a low-sensory experience with dimmed lights and minimised background noise.\u201d<\/p>\n
Unlike the traditional speed dating model, people will have more than five minutes to meet, interact, and learn about one another.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will have conversation prompt questions on the tables, and also fidget toys,\u201d Ms Taylor said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis event is a great way for everyone to enjoy a night out and make new social connections without having to worry about whether it\u2019s going to be an inclusive environment or not.\u201d<\/p>\n
Neurodiverse friend-dating will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm, with a target audience of 18 to 40 year olds.<\/p>\n
\u201cEverybody is welcome,\u201d Ms Taylor said. \u201cYou don\u2019t have to be neurodivergent either, but if you are, then this is the event for you.\u201d<\/p>\n
Visit bit.ly\/47Eu0s1 to register or contact zoi.jahau@melbasupport.com.au with any questions.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
NEURODIVERSE people seeking new connections are invited to take part in an inclusive friend-dating event in the garden room of Oscar\u2019s Hotel next week. Set for the evening of Wednesday 13 December, the initiative is being led by Melba Support Services, and inclusion consultant Kate Taylor said it\u2019s about supporting people to foster new friendships. […]<\/p>\n