SOUTHAMPTON, UK – The Odeon Cinema along with 10 other cinemas across the country will offer special screenings for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD.)
These special screenings are part of a trial by Dimensions, a specialist provider of services for people with learning disabilities and autism. They are are a non profit organization who working closely with Autism Hampshire have been able to adapt the films for a better sensory experience for those on the autism spectrum.
Dimensions has been organizing similar screenings across the country since 2011. There have been 250 participating cinemas with over 125,000 viewers.
The cinemas have lights left on low and the volume turned down for better sensory experiences. The viewers will be allowed to sit where they choose along with being able to move around freely.
Lisa Hopkins, executive director of practice development at Dimensions, said that films are currently being screened on Sunday mornings and are aimed at families. She also adds that this is a wonderful way to give adults affected by autism the same type of outings as everyone else.
The next autism friendly screening will be on Monday December 15 at 6pm. The Hobbit: The Battle of Five Armies will be shown in 2D.
More information about the Dimensions Autism Friendly Screenings can be found here.
The original article in the Southern Daily Echo can be read here