Transport strategies has failed disabled people

The UK’s lack of coherent inclusive transport strategies has failed disabled people – transport accessibility must become consistent across nations and modes to ensure disabled people can make seamless door-to-door journeys. The Accessible Transport Policy Commission, part of the National Centre for Accessible Transport (ncat) and convened by a cross-party group of Parliamentarians, has launched its first report, Joined-Up Policies, Joined-Up Journeys: Roadmapping Accessible Transport for the UK and Devolved Governments. The report sets out five-year roadmaps to improve transport accessibility policy and regulation in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Denied access to transport systems that are equitable, consistent, and inclusive by design, disabled people make 38% fewer journeys than non-disabled people across the UK transport system[1], with ncat research finding that 92% of disabled people face barriers when using at least one mode of transport. [2] The exclusion caused by inaccessible transport prevents disabled people from fully contributing their talents, skills, and perspectives – stifling the ambition of policymakers to build a healthy, prosperous, and successful society by limiting access to employment, housing, health, and culture. Our research shows this has a disproportionate impact on disabled people from marginalised and lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Across the UK, barriers to transport are caused by fragmented governance, outdated frameworks, and faltering policy delivery. The Commission’s report highlights the “postcode lottery” created for disabled people by inconsistent accessible transport standards, ineffective transport regulators, and a lack of integration between different transport modes. These systemic challenges and the highly devolved nature of UK transport policy mean that better coordination between policymakers is vital to enabling more equitable and inclusive travel. The report also urges policy makers to bring disabled people – whose experiences and expertise are often overlooked – into decision making processes. Future reforms must embed co-production at all stages.. Joined-Up Policies, Joined-Up Journeys outlines a practical vision for standardising transport accessibility practices and integrating transport across the UK. The report’s recommendations put coproduction at the heart of a series of five-year national roadmaps that pave the way for operational, strategic and legislative reforms to how transport policies are made and evaluated. For individual nations, the report recommends: England Year 1: The forthcoming Integrated National Transport Strategy should develop an accessible transport framework and form a Ministerial Taskforce across departments to deliver it. Year 2-3: Establish an Accessible Transport Standards Commission and UK-wide Disability Transport Taskforce to update and review accessible transport frameworks and regulation. Year 4-5: Conduct an England-specific review of the impact of the accessibility design and training standards, alongside the publishing of annual accessibility enforcement and compliance summaries. Wales Year 1: Establish a National Accessibility Advisory Panel to advise Ministers and integrate Disability Rights Taskforce Working Group for Travel’s recommendations and the Accessible Transport Plan into Llwybr Newydd. Year 2-3: Contribute to a UK-wide Disability Transport Taskforce to ensure strategic alignment, and establish local access plans, working with local authorities and corporate joint committees in Wales. Year 4-5: Conduct a Wales-specific review of the impact of the accessibility design and training standards. Mandate accessibility and disability awareness training for all public-facing transport staff and managers within Transport for Wales . Scotland Year 1: Begin co-production of the Accessible Travel Framework for post-2026 that is in line with the National Transport Strategy 2, with a cross-departmental taskforce established to deliver the framework. Year 2-3: Contribute to a UK-wide Disability Transport Taskforce to ensure strategic alignment. Mandate accessibility and disability awareness training for all public-facing transport staff and managers within Transport Scotland. Year 4-5: Conduct a Scotland-specific review of the impact of the accessibility design and training standards, alongside the publishing of annual accessibility enforcement and compliance summaries. Northern Ireland Year 1: Publish an inclusive transport strategy for NI and establish a cross-departmental Ministerial Taskforce on Accessible Transport. Set up more community accessibility panels at the district council level, linked to rural partnerships. Year 2-3: Reform the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to introduce protection from indirect discrimination. Mandate accessibility and disability awareness training for all public-facing transport staff and managers within Department for Infrastructure. Year 4-5: Conduct an NI-specific review of the impact of the accessibility design and training standards, alongside the publishing of annual accessibility enforcement and compliance summaries. For more information please email info@ncat.uk
Thousands flock to take on Superhero Tri

Saturday August 16, 2025 saw close to 5,000 people descend on Dorney Lake to enjoy the thrill of Superhero Tri, powered by Marvel – the world’s only grassroots disability sports event. People came from far wide, including participants from the Highlands in Scotland, Ireland, Wales and even South Africa. Now in its ninth year, Superhero Tri is the world’s only mass participation event exclusively for people with disabilities. Providing a unique platform which puts their needs front and centre, ‘Everyday Superheroes’ lined up alongside Paralympians and disabled role models to take on the three-stage course in a choice of three distances. Some flew solo and took on all three stages – swim, cycle and push/run – but most shared the fun with Sidekick teammates who helped tow, push and pull them around the course. Enjoying their first-ever Superhero Tri were Paralympic, World and European table tennis champion Will Bayley, Paralympic, World, European and Commonwealth swimming champion Maisie Summers-Newton MBE. Among those travelling long distance to take part this year were 14-year-old twins Caleb and Callistus Armstrong from Enniskillen, 11-year-old Sienna and her family from Swansea, 22-year-old Poppy from Inverness and renowned DJ Kabila aka Siyanda Makanya, 47, who flew in from Pretoria, South Africa to enjoy the legendary event. “There’s something magical when you put together a team of mixed abilities and everyone supports each other round the course and crosses the finish line together,” says Jayne Armstrong, mum to 14-year-old twins Caleb and Callistus who both have cerebral palsy. “We travel from home in Enniskillen to take part and have done so since 2018,” says Jayne. “It’s a fantastic family day out with my daughter Laura, cousins and carers coming along to lend support and take part. I love the fact there’s something for everyone to enjoy and we feel part of the Superhero Series family.” Sienna, 11, has a six-hour round trip from her home in Swansea to participate in the Superhero Tri. She has now done the event four times and this year had the great honour of being presented with a Golden Cape for her determination and motivation “We love the positive and uplifting atmosphere of Superhero Tri and appreciate the wonderful opportunity for Sienna to be surrounded by people just like her,” explains Jo Allen-Chaplin, Sienna’s mother. “This year, Sienna led a celebrity team with Paralympian Maisie Summers-Newton and TV comedian Alex Brooker. She did the 3k bike ride and I joined as her Sidekick. Straight after that, she took part in the Wheelchair Basketball showcase so it was a super busy day for her.” Dedicated to the UK’s 16.1 million people with disabilities*, Superhero Tri removes all barriers to participation and allows people to take as long as they want and use whatever adaptive super kit, gadgets and gizmos they need. Powered by Marvel, many people dress up as their favourite superhero making the event a sight to behold. Poppy Morrison, 22, travelled over 1,000 miles from her home in Inverness with her mum, aunt and family friend Sidekicks to take part in her first Superhero Tri. They came down by train but flew home. “Superhero Tri is a fantastic opportunity that allows me to enjoy two of my favourite sports, swimming and cycling, push my limits and achieve something that I never knew would be possible” says Poppy. “I feel like the Superhero Tri has gone above and beyond to make things accessible, bring people with disabilities together and form a supportive community. I want to learn from this!” says Siyanda Makanya from South Africa, who campaigns for disabled people’s accessibility rights and uses the motto “The impossible is merely the untried.” Alongside the 15 consecutive waves of people setting off around the course, other highlights of the day included a Golden Caping Ceremony in which Clare Balding CBE awarded seven inspiring young participants the prestigious Golden Cape for their resilience, spirit and fundraising feats. A range of activities brought further fun including the Marvel Avengers Training Initiative that unleashed people’s inner superpowers, a Wheelchair Basketball showcase game and Wheelchair Rugby training sessions and showcase match delivered by the Berkshire Banshees “Every year I’m inspired by the effort people put into shaping their team, sourcing supportive gadgets and pulling together to get round the course,” says Sophia Warner, Paralympian and founder of the Superhero Tri. “I’m also moved to know how far people will travel to be part of the day. It just goes to show what people can do when given the opportunity. Of course, another reason they will travel for hours is because we are the only mass-participation grassroots sports event centred on people with disabilities. “Superhero Tri is powered by Marvel and people love to take on one of their superhero characters and channel the feeling of having a superpower,” continues Sophia. “Giving people with a disability the chance to show the amazing things they can do sums up the day perfectly!” “We are so proud to support Superhero Tri powered by Marvel, seeing so many people embracing their inner superhero on Saturday at an event enjoyed in such a fun, inclusive and celebratory way,” says Deborah Armstrong, Country Manager for UK & Ireland, The Walt Disney Company. “It’s part of our commitment to creating moments that matter inspired by our incredible stories and characters.” Super Supporters Supporting the Superhero Tri headline partner Disney are partners DHL, E.ON, Everyone Active, Invacare, Pfizer, Salutem, Staysure and Swim England whose invaluable support make Superhero Tri possible. See the highlights The 2025 highlights, hosted by Clare Balding, will be broadcast on Channel 4 at 0915 on Sunday August 31,, 2025. Next event Everyday Superheroes are invited to return to Dorney Lake for the Superhero Series winter event, Winter Wonderwheels where people can walk, wheel or run around three scenic lakeside distances: 1km, 5km & 10km. Find out more and enter here: https://superheroseries.co.uk/winter-wonderwheels-2025
Sight Loss Councils Share Stories

Sight Loss Councils, led by blind and partially sighted (BPS) volunteers, are sharing their rail travel stories as part of this year’s Railway 200 celebrations, marking 200 years since the birth of the modern railway. They are also encouraging others to travel by train to build confidence and independence. Sight Loss Councils (SLCs), funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, are regional groups led by blind and partially sighted volunteers. These volunteers use their lived experience to shape inclusive services, influence decisions, and improve accessibility in local communities. Access to public transport has been a key priority for SLCs. This follows feedback from blind and partially sighted people during the 2023 Listening Month consultation, where 65 per cent of BPS respondents identified it as a top concern. Blind and partially sighted people – who are unable to drive – are heavily reliant on public transport for daily life, to socialise with friends and get to work. Making transport accessible enables them to be more confident, safe, active and independent. When local transport is not accessible, many risk becoming isolated. How have rail experiences changed for blind and partially sighted people? As part of the Railway 200 celebrations, Birmingham and Black Country SLC member Steve Keith, who is registered blind, shares his personal story of how improvements in rail travel have helped him feel safer, more confident, and more independent – recalling how older train doors could previously be opened before stopping at a station, putting him at risk of walking out of a moving train. He explains: “Modern trains are far more accessible and customer-friendly, especially from a disabled passenger’s point of view. It’s now much easier for me to visit family in Scotland 400 miles away, and to meet friends in Birmingham city centre. “Tactile paving at the edge of platforms has also made a big difference. It might sound small, but knowing I won’t accidentally walk off the edge has a very real impact on how, and when, I choose to travel.” SLC member Mike Wright, also registered blind, has shared his personal story of how he travels by train to go dragon boat racing. He said: “Tactile platform markings, whilst they might seem minor, compared to high-tech innovations I’d argue are one of the most safety-critical features introduced for blind and partially sighted people, alongside central locking train doors.” Passenger assistance has also had a major impact on BPS passengers’ ability to travel independently and safely, alongside improvements in signage and station navigation. Passenger assistance provided by train companies aims to offer assistance with a range of measures, including but not limited to navigating stations, boarding and alighting trains, and finding seats. Steve explains: “Since the introduction of Passenger Assistance, my journeys have become much simpler – and most importantly, safer. A member of staff now guides me around the station and onto the train. Thanks to the passenger assistance app, they can also notify my destination station about where I’m seated. This makes it much easier for staff to find me when I arrive.” Progress and impact As transport has evolved over the past 200 years, so too has accessibility. Since their inception in 2017, Sight Loss Councils have witnessed some positive changes for blind and partially sighted people through their collaborative work with transport operators and wider partners. SLCs have for example: Real-life impact Try a Train events are designed to help participants build confidence in travelling by train, from navigating stations to getting to know the train layout. Alan Rankin, who travelled by train for the first time since losing his sight at a Try a Train event in Lancashire, explained: “I was extremely anxious about going on a train… But this was a massive first step for me, and I’m so glad I went.” Nolene Wright, who also attended the Try a Train event, said: “Not only did it give me an opportunity to chat with other blind and partially sighted people, but it really helped boost my confidence to travel by train in the future.” Carl Martin, Accessibility Lead at Govia Thameslink Railway, said about their work with Sight Loss Councils on increasing access: “Working alongside blind and partially sighted people who have that vital lived experience is so important to us. The power of their expertise in helping us plan and introduce a navigational guiding app across all our stations, along with other initiatives, is invaluable in increasing independent travel.” We need to make rail travel accessible for all But there is still much work to be done and challenges remain. For example, there is a lack of consistency across the country around accessible and easily navigable stations, ticket machines and apps for bookings, and passenger assistance services including for trips that cut across multiple regions. Steve shared: “I’d love to see more staff trained to use the Passenger Assistance App properly. There have been times when my journey was cancelled on the app without explanation, leaving me stranded and unsure how to exit the platform safely.” Sight Loss Councils plan to continue working with operators nationwide to improve accessibility and raise awareness by sharing their lived experiences and expertise as BPS passengers. Steve adds: “I would always encourage other disabled people to share their positive travel experiences too. Sharing our stories can help build confidence and encourages more blind and partially sighted people to explore and enjoy events and new places. And if you’ve had a negative experience, I encourage you to give constructive feedback. Sharing feedback with operators is how they can learn and improve. “This is exactly what the Sight Loss Councils are doing – working in partnership with train operators to make travel safer and more accessible. Everyone has the right to travel independently and safely, and live the lives they want to live.” Learn more about Sight Loss Councils and their work to make transport accessible at www.sightlosscouncils.org.uk
A fantastic partnership for Fox and hound – a support dog

When Grace Fox was younger, she led an active life. A former beauty therapist, she loved to ice skate at her local rink in her spare time. But when she was 22, she developed an eye problem – which was an early symptom of Multiple Sclerosis. “I lost part of the vision in my left eye, which I still haven’t got back,” said the 64-year-old from Brighton, whose mum also had MS. Grace later had two daughters, Adele and Hannah, and was well enough to care for them, but as she got older, she developed problems in both legs and began using a wheelchair 10 years ago. After her husband William passed away, she found herself feeling increasingly isolated. That’s when she looked into getting her pet dog, Lucy, trained as a support dog. Thanks to the national Support Dogs charity, the three-year-old yellow Labrador is opening doors both figuratively and literally for Grace. Now Grace, who lives with Adele and Hannah, feels a lot less isolated at home, and knows her daughters have peace of mind when they go out to work, assured that their mum is in safe paws. “Lucy has made a big difference,” said Grace. “She can help me take off my socks and shoes and another thing she is really good at is touching the footplates on my wheelchair – she knocks them down and I can put my feet up, which otherwise would be really difficult for me to do for myself.” Lucy can even load and unload the washing machine – another fantastic help to Grace. She can also pick up and fetch objects, raise the alarm, open and close doors and push access buttons. “She does fetch help – she can press my Care Link button if I have a fall,” added Grace. And as well as practically, Lucy is also boosting Grace’s sociability. Before her MS, which is secondary progressive, Grace loved being around people. “When I was a beauty therapist, I used to have people come and have home treatments – I was always used to having people around me. “With my MS, it can be very isolating, especially when I stopped driving. “But with Lucy, she brings friends – a lot of people come up and talk to us, especially when they see her in her Support Dogs jacket. “We also take Lucy along to a choir and she loves meeting people there. She also comes to an art group and writing group. She pushes buttons to open doors. She’s also been learning to go to the cinema with me – she comes and sits through the film with me.” The family got Lucy as a pet when she was just 10 weeks old and tried training her themselves. But then Grace heard about Support Dogs, a charity, which trains specialist assistance dogs to help autistic children, as well as adults with epilepsy or a physical disability to live safer, more independent lives, and she was so impressed, she applied for training in late 2023. Grace said: “I saw it in my MS magazine about how wonderful these dogs were and how they could be trained to help you. “What Lucy has done is given me confidence to help me in many aspects of life. “I lost my husband and you lose going out with friends and doing things, she’s now given me the opportunity to try and go out by myself and hopefully get on the bus or go in the car.” The pair began training in November last year and they have recently graduated as a successful Support Dogs partnership. “I was fit and had no idea I would have problems walking or not be able to do things one day – you have got to do everything you can, when you can,” said Grace. “I think what Support Dogs does is brilliant. “It helps disabled people to keep going, to carry on and enjoy life.” To find out more about the incredible work of Support Dogs, please call 0114 2617800 or visit www.supportdogs.org.uk
Cambridge special autism school celebrates first ever GCSE results

This August, The Cavendish School, Cambridgeshire’s first state-maintained free school for autistic students, is celebrating the “enormous achievement” of its first ever cohort to sit GCSE exams. More than half (54 per cent) of its students, who all have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), achieved a Grade 4 or higher in English and Mathematics. Nearly 40 per cent (38%) of students at the school achieved a Grade 5 or higher in English and Mathematics, exceeding the 2022/2023 national average of 6.9 per cent for students with an EHCP. Freya C., achieved seven GCSEs, four of which were graded 8 or 9, and will study Biology at The Cavendish School’s Sixth Form. Matthew W., will also continue onto the school’s Sixth Form to study Maths and Science after he achieved two Grade 8s in his Science GCSEs. The school, which opened in 2021 for autistic students in Years 3 to 13, is the first state-maintained special autism school in the world to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP). The educational framework is rooted in inquiry-based, transdisciplinary learning and develops students’ academic growth and their social, emotional and physical wellbeing. Students build on the skills and knowledge that they develop in Years 3 to 8 during a transition year before commencing their GCSE studies in Year 10. To prepare students for success in their exams, students complete entry-level qualifications from Year 9. A gradual, trauma-informed approach to weekly and end of unit mini assessments also normalises the process of testing knowledge throughout students’ time at the school. Stephanie Smith, Head of School and Director of Autism Education for Eastern Learning Alliance, said she is ‘extremely proud’ of the students’ accomplishment. “Anxiety is common in autistic children and, as such, the exam period can be challenging for them. An important part of their experience at The Cavendish School is to normalise the assessment process and build students’ confidence so that they feel ready to sit their exams. Over the past four years, it has been incredibly gratifying to see our students achieve their personal and academic aspirations, and we are tremendously proud of every single one of them.” This year’s cohort will also be the first to have the option of progressing to the school’s new Sixth Form, which opens in September 2025, where they will be able to pursue an Open University Level One module Qualification. Credits from this module can be used towards further Open University qualifications, or like A Levels, to meet the entry requirements at a variety of universities including Anglia Ruskin University and Goldsmiths University of London. Alongside this, students will also benefit from work or volunteer experience and continued therapeutic Personal Learning Goal (PLG) support. Smith said: “At The Cavendish School, we aim to break down the potential barriers to education facing autistic young people to help our students to become independent, emotionally and socially confident young adults. Qualifications such as their GCSEs are a significant step on this journey and I am look forward to welcoming many of our students back in September, when they join our Sixth Form.” To learn more about The Cavendish School, visit: https://thecavendishschool.org.uk/
Model Disability Award 2025

Nick Wilson, 49, from Towcester, aka Disabled Adventurer, has been shortlisted for the Positive Role Model Disability Award at the 2025 National Diversity Awards for his exceptional work promoting disability awareness and accessibility. His mission is simple: to open the world up to make the outdoors and adventuring more accessible for everyone, wherever they are. Whether going up a mountain or his local high street in his wheelchair, Nick shares his journey to show how making the great outdoors accessible to people has the power to change lives. A former Sergeant in the British Army, Nick’s 14-year service included deployments to Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. His distinguished Army career ended in 2013 when the culmination of injuries sustained from carrying too much heavy equipment left him physically incapacitated. Nick lives in constant pain from seven prolapsed discs and a degenerative disease of the spine and is unable to sit or stand up for longer than 10 minutes. Compounding this, he has PTSD from his time on the front line. Despite these setbacks, Nick has transformed his personal challenges into a powerful platform for advocacy and change. Rock bottom When he came out of the Army, Nick started a chauffeur business working for himself. “I saw it as my coping mechanism. I worked 16+ hours a day, seven days a week to keep myself busy. But it drove me over the edge,” Nick admits. He started to make bad choices, lost money and was told he couldn’t have contact with his daughter. “I hit rock bottom and attempted suicide in August 2016. I simply saw no point to my life if I couldn’t see my daughter,” he says. Nick spent time in residential rehab for his depression and PTSD and during this period saw a path ahead of him. “When I came out, I started a consultancy dealing with mental health issues for others and founded Talk Mental Health, a charity aimed at supporting men facing challenges. This was important as I knew first-hand that waiting lists are very long – too long – if you have a serious mental health problem.” Vicious circle for disability community “When people think of accessibility they think of infrastructure. Community and social groups are vital for our wellbeing but if you’re disabled it’s much harder to access such things. “In my area there are no disabled community groups and that’s not unusual,” says Nick. “Knowing that disabled people are vulnerable to social isolation leading to depression and suicide, this astounds me. Effectively, it is a vicious circle in which disabled people can quickly spiral downwards.” The risk is very real with disabled people three times more likely to die by suicide than people who are non-disabled. The peace in nature “Getting outdoors is the way I manage my negative thoughts and feelings. However, when reliant on a standard wheelchair, it’s limiting. I want to get off the path – literally,” explains Nick who finds joy by heading into the woods, going across fields and up into the mountains. Working closely with Rock Engineering the all-terrain chair Rock Climber was built to enable Nick to go off-road – and show what can be done with the right support. He has been on many adventures with this wheelchair including being the first disabled person to ascend Snowdon solo. Another design Nick likes is the Quantum all-terrain chair which can go into the woods, over grass and through mud. However, with a price tag of £15-£30,000, such experiences are out of reach for many. “My idea is that places like the National Trust can buy a chair and hire it to visitors so they can access the great outdoors and find the peace in nature,” says Nick. “It may seem a short amount of time someone can spend doing this, but the thrill and happy memories stay for a long time making these experiences invaluable.” Bringing others on the journey Nick is acutely aware how sharing his adventures can help others. He films his escapades and posts them online so that people can share in the thrill and maybe even try it for themselves. “Some of my community can’t physically leave the house but like watching the videos to see my experience,” says Nick. “They tell me they feel good that we’re pushing the boundaries and love to see how much can be done with the right equipment and mindset.” When people struggle to socialise for whatever reason, an online community is the next best thing. Nick considers his community to be an extended family comprising people who care about each other. And with over 15 million views in one year, Nick’s work is clearly resonating with like-minded people. National Diversity Awards “The unsung heroes shortlisted in the National Diversity Awards help us to realise how much goodness and humility there is at the heart of our communities,” says Paul Sesay, CEO of Inclusive Companies and founder of the National Diversity Awards. “The work these people do and the empathy they show is more important than it has ever been. We are living in a time when funding and support are limited which makes community action an invaluable resource on which so many people rely. Indeed, for some, it really is a lifeline.” “If I was fortunate enough to win the Award, it would give me the platform to reach out and help even more people,” says Nick, admitting he needs to manage his PTSD nerves and anxiety to attend the National Diversity Awards in Liverpool on September 19th. “Crowded rooms make me anxious but I’m focusing on meeting disability and community role models that I look up to,” says Nick. Such role models are essential, Nick believes. “Diverse role models help show people what’s possible and instil belief that they can do things, too. “If you can get someone to believe their dream is possible, they can see what tomorrow could bring. And that’s important because thinking tomorrow could bring something good encourages
Heatwaves Autism & ADHD

As the UK braces for a heatwave this week with forecasters predicting one of the hottest Augusts on record, the sensory challenges for neurodiverse children with conditions like ADHD and autism become more pronounced. Intense heat, bright sunlight, and crowded outdoor spaces can be overwhelming, turning the prospect of summer fun into a source of stress. Dr. Selina Warlow, Clinical Psychologist and Founder of The Nook Clinic shares practical advice on how small adjustments can help children navigate these sensory hurdles, transforming summer from a challenging season into an empowering one. Whether it is melting ice lollies or sweltering summer clothes, there are things we can do to help: Dr Warlow says: “Summer can be a wonderful time for neurodivergent children, but heat, noise and change can sometimes tip into overload. It’s not about avoiding these experiences; it’s about creating conditions where children can feel safe, comfortable and able to join in. I want families and schools to feel confident making simple adjustments that can turn potential struggles into moments of joy.” Tips for parents: small changes, big difference Plan around the heat: try to schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day – early mornings or late afternoons. Not only does this reduce the risk of overheating, but it also helps prevent sensory overwhelm from intense sunlight and busy midday crowds. Building in regular shady breaks can keep the day feeling positive and manageable. Create a cool-down kit: a small bag of essentials can help children self-regulate when the heat or environment starts to feel too much. Include things like a handheld fan, a cooling towel or spray, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and noise-cancelling headphones for loud or busy places. If you’re camping or spending long days outside, consider a blackout tent or sunshade to create a calm, darker retreat – perfect for rest or quiet play. Flexible clothing: lighter, breathable fabrics can make a big difference to comfort levels and help prevent overheating. At home or out and about, let children choose clothing that feels comfortable on their skin, as some materials or tighter items may feel unbearable in the heat to children with sensory sensitivities. Hydration hacks: children with ADHD or autism may not recognise early signs of dehydration, so make drinking fun and frequent. Offer water with ice cubes, colourful straws, or in favourite cups and bottles. Freeze small bottles of water or juice overnight for a cool option on hot outings and set regular ‘drink breaks’ as part of the day’s routine. Balance activity with rest: energetic outdoor time can be great for burning off energy, but follow it with calm, cooling indoor play or quiet time in shaded areas. Activities like reading, drawing, or building with LEGO in a cool room can help children reset before the next burst of activity. Use visual planners: heat and changeable summer routines can make the day feel unpredictable and stressful for neurodivergent children. Simple visual planners or picture schedules can help them anticipate what’s coming next, reducing anxiety and building confidence about transitions from indoors to outdoors, or from one activity to another.
LEGOLAND Windsor awarded for autism-friendly service

– LEGOLAND Windsor has become the first UK theme park to achieve a national charity award in recognition of its work to provide an autism-friendly environment and inclusive customer service for autistic people. LEGOLAND Windsor, in Berkshire, has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Friendly Award, which supports businesses to be more inclusive for autistic people through providing accessible customer services, information and environments. The award recognises the measures LEGOLAND Windsor has in place to support autistic people and their families, including autism training for the park’s staff and reasonable adjustments including: access passes for those who are not able to queue for long times; sensory spaces; ear defenders; flashcards and communication cards; and accessible information about the park. At least one in 100 people are autistic, which means more than 700,000 people in the UK, but many autistic people and their families still struggle to access community spaces, businesses and shops. By meeting the standards set out in the Autism Friendly Award, businesses can ensure they offer an industry approved autism-friendly environment. The award can be adopted by any customer facing organisation, including businesses in the retail, transport, arts, entertainment and leisure industries. Kate McBirnie, Global Head of Accessibility at Merlin Entertainments, said: “At Merlin Entertainments, accessibility means more than just open doors — it means building an inclusive environment where every guest can explore, connect, and fully enjoy the magic of our experiences. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to make unforgettable memories, and we’re proud to play a part in making that a reality. Receiving this accreditation is an important milestone for the LEGOLAND Windsor team, and we’re deeply grateful to the National Autistic Society for their support and recognition. But just like any great LEGO build, we’re not stopping here — we’re excited to keep adding new bricks to make our Resort even more inclusive, welcoming, and magical for everyone.” Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation and Projects at the National Autistic Society, said: “It’s fantastic that LEGOLAND Windsor is the first theme park in the UK to achieve the Autism Friendly Award and we congratulate the team on all their hard work to create a more autism-friendly place. It’s so important for theme parks, and all public leisure spaces, to be more inclusive for autistic people and their families, so that everyone can be supported to enjoy a fun day out. “There are lots of changes venues can make, such as autism training for all staff, sensory rooms, clear signs and information, and a range of communication formats. We hope many more theme parks follow LEGOLAND Windsor’s lead and show up for autistic people by becoming a more autism-friendly space, to help create a society that truly works for autistic people. We have lots of information about our Autism Friendly Award and how to provide an autism-friendly environment on our website www.autism.org.uk.” Rachael, Chair of the National Autistic Society’s South Buckinghamshire Branch, said: “Our members find theme parks too busy and noisy and the queues can cause distress and overwhelm. Having a theme park on our doorstep who take in to account the additional needs of our members and their families means we can all hope to visit LEGOLAND Windsor feeling safe, knowing they will support us through our trips there.” The National Autistic Society’s Autism Accreditation Programme is the UK’s only autism-specific quality assurance programme of support and development for all those providing services to autistic people. For more information about LEGOLAND Windsor, visit: https://www.legoland.co.uk/ For more information about the Autism Friendly Award, visit the National Autistic Society website.
Tackle Everyday Barriers to Mobility

Mobility in Motion is proud to announce a new partnership with REMAP, the national charity that designs and builds custom assistive equipment to improve the quality of life for people who experience short- or long-term disability through infirmity, illness, or aging. Together, the organisations aim to push the boundaries of inclusive mobility, ensuring that more people have access to the tools they need to live independently and confidently. “Mobility doesn’t stop at the car door,” said Matt Fieldhouse, Managing Director of Mobility in Motion. “Our customers often face barriers in many areas of life. That’s why we’re so excited to work with REMAP. Their bespoke approach to solving mobility challenges fits perfectly with our mission to offer solutions that put the person first, whether they’re driving, travelling, working, or just living their day-to-day lives.” REMAP’s team of skilled volunteer engineers has been creating one-of-a-kind equipment for over 60 years, helping thousands of individuals with disabilities overcome obstacles that off-the-shelf products simply can’t address. With this partnership, the charity is poised to extend its reach and impact by getting in front of Mobility in Motion’s customers, ambassadors, and community partners. “We believe in practical, person-centred innovation,” said Sue Boyes, CEO of REMAP. “Working with Mobility in Motion gives us the opportunity to let a wider audience know about our services and how we can support them. This partnership not only helps us reach more individuals in need, but also raises the visibility of our work, which we hope will inspire more people to volunteer their skills and join our incredible network of engineers across the UK” In the coming months, the two organisations will launch a series of collaborative initiatives designed to raise awareness of available adaptations, share inspiring stories from the disability community, and offer personalised support for individuals navigating mobility challenges. These efforts will be grounded in a shared belief: that every person deserves the freedom to move through life with confidence, comfort, and control. About Mobility in MotionLaunched in 2023, Mobility in Motion is transforming automotive accessibility through an inclusive, customer-first approach. By offering tailored solutions, expert advice, and partnering with top manufacturers, the company ensures that travel is safe and accessible for all, while working hard to promote visibility for underrepresented groups in the mobility sector. www.mobilityinmotion.com About REMAPREMAP is a national charity that helps disabled people achieve greater independence and quality of life through bespoke engineering. Volunteers across the UK work with clients and professionals to design and build customised equipment, free of charge, to meet individual needs that cannot be solved by commercially available products.www.remap.org.uk