Staff members at Co-op Place and the Esplanade have access to sensory bags that are filled with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, cue cards and weighted lap pads as they become the first two entertainment venues in Alberta to receive a Sensory Inclusive Certification from KultureCity.--SUPPLIED PHOTO
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Co-op Place and the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre are the first two entertainment venues in Alberta to earn a sensory-inclusive certification that is being widely embraced by other venues and stadiums across North America.
The Sensory Inclusive certification is awarded by KultureCity, a non-profit organization focused on promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with sensory needs.
Currently, the city says more than 150 staff members and volunteers have received training developed by leading medical and neurodivergent professionals on how to recognize guests and fans with sensory needs, and how to handle a sensory overload situation.
“It’s a great piece of training that our volunteers and staff are able to understand and assist people with sensory needs,” said Joseph Hutter, public services managing director, during that committee’s meeting Monday.
Additionally, staff assessed both facilities to understand where sensory-friendly upgrades may be needed. Staff also now have access to items designed to assist guests for sensory sensitivities.
“Sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads have also been made available to all guests to these venues who may feel overwhelmed by the environment,” the city says.
The city will also use signs to identify areas that have been developed to provide a quiet space.
Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity app to view what sensory features are available and where they can access them.
Hutter says it is aimed to answer questions for guests, including the arrival, ticketing and security experiences at each venue.
“While we’re incredibly proud to be the first entertainment venues in the province with this certification, we recognize this is not the finish line,” said Tramas Brown, manager of guest experience and operations manager. “This is just the next step within our continuous improvement to better serve our community.”
The city enacted a sensory friendly pilot project among the roar and rubble of the Monsters & Mayhem monster truck event held at Co-op Place on March 8.
During the pilot 20 participants and 20 caregivers were asked to respond to a short survey after attending the event.
Coun. Romana Robins hopes the new certification will allow more families to enjoy events and activities at Co-op Place and the Esplanade.
“Slightly more inclusive, to a mom with a newborn, toddlers … what a great thing to do to sort of expand that to larger groups and adults who may need that sort of sensitivity,” she said.
“This certification ensures that everyone can attend, feel welcome and enjoy all our events and programming,” says Brown.
