Portable Sensory Rooms
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), in collaboration with Sport Ireland & Energia, is proud to announce the development and distribution of Portable Sensory Rooms for each province and clubs. This initiative is aimed at creating a more inclusive environment for rugby spectators with sensory sensitivities, providing a vital resource for clubs and provincial teams across the country.
Portable Sensory Rooms
A Game-Changer for Accessibility
The new Portable Sensory Rooms are designed to support individuals, particularly those with sensory processing difficulties, who may find attending live sporting events overwhelming. These boxes will be available for clubs to borrow from the provinces, offering tools and equipment to help manage sensory overload. This initiative marks a significant step forward in making rugby accessible to everyone, ensuring a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for all fans, regardless of their needs.
What’s in the Sensory Room?
A sensory room is a specially designed space intended to help individuals with sensory processing issues or developmental disabilities, manage sensory input in a controlled, calming environment. Each Portable Sensory room contains noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools, visual aids, and calming items that cater to individuals who may struggle with the loud, bustling environments often found in stadiums and clubs. The boxes are simple to use and will be available on request at all IRFU Clubs offering a haven for those who may feel overwhelmed during matches or events.
The Benefits of Sensory Spaces in Rugby?
By creating sensory spaces and offering sensory tools, rugby clubs and venues are fostering a more inclusive environment for fans. These spaces provide:
- Calm zones: An area where individuals can step away from the crowd and take a moment to regroup in a quieter environment.
- Increased participation: By reducing the barriers to attendance, these sensory spaces encourage individuals and families who may otherwise avoid attending live matches to enjoy the game.
- Community engagement: This initiative strengthens the relationship between clubs and their communities, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in sports.
A Shared Commitment to Inclusion
This initiative is a testament to the IRFU’s commitment to making rugby a sport for everyone. By equipping provinces with Portable Sensory Boxes, the IRFU continues to lead the way in promoting inclusivity, ensuring that every fan can enjoy the excitement of the game in a way that’s comfortable for them.
This project is more than just a box of tools – it’s a meaningful step towards making rugby stadiums and clubs accessible to everyone. It shows our commitment to ensuring that rugby fans, regardless of their sensory needs, feel welcome and supported.
If your club is holding an event and would like to borrow the portable sensory box, please get in touch with your provincial representative:
• Leinster: billy.phelan@leinsterrugby.ie
• Munster: emilyoleary@munsterrugby.ie
• Connacht: luke.murphy@connachtrugby.ie
• Ulster: shel.laffin@ulsterrugby.com
For further information on Disability Inclusion Projects within the IRFU , Please contact David McKay at david.mckay@irfu.ie
