Sheffield’s inaugural Autism Festival, taking place from April 15-17, 2025, aims to celebrate neurodiversity and promote autism acceptance, offering a range of events and activities for autistic individuals and their supporters in the heart of the city.
Highlights of Sheffield Autism Festival
The Sheffield Autism Festival 2025 offers a diverse range of events and activities designed to empower, support, and celebrate autistic individuals. Key highlights include:
- An Autism Experience Bus providing insight into how neurodiverse people perceive the world, developed in partnership with over 100 individuals with various neurodiverse diagnoses
- A series of talks delivered by autistic speakers on topics such as supporting autism-friendly services, neuro-inclusion in employment and education, and addressing challenges in accessing health and social care
- An art exhibition showcasing works by autistic artists at Sheffield Hallam University’s Stoddart Building
- Nature walks and gameboard sessions led by autistic individuals
- A drop-in session at Sheffield Town Hall where visitors can learn about local services and support available for autistic people and their families
All events have been organized with sensitivity to autistic needs, including quiet rooms and limited attendee numbers, with speaker events being recorded for online access after the festival.
Autism Experience Bus Insights
The Autism Experience Bus, a key feature of the Sheffield Autism Festival 2025, offers a unique immersive experience designed to foster empathy and understanding of autism. This mobile sensory unit simulates everyday experiences for people with autism, featuring:
- Bright lights, sounds, and smells to mimic hypersensitivity
- Special gloves and glasses to distort vision and touch senses
- Technology developed in partnership with over 100 neurodiverse individuals, sensory occupational therapists, and the National Autistic Society
This innovative training tool provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and the general public, helping to create a more autism-friendly community. By offering a first-hand perspective on the challenges faced by autistic individuals in daily life, the Autism Experience Bus aims to improve support and services for the neurodiverse population in Sheffield and beyond.
Nature Walks for Neurodiverse Visitors
The Sheffield Autism Festival 2025 features specially designed nature walks catering to neurodiverse visitors, offering a unique opportunity to experience the calming effects of the outdoors. These walks, led by WAND (Walking and Nature for Diversity), take place at Victoria Quays, providing a serene urban oasis for participants. The nature walks offer several benefits for autistic individuals:
- Sensory-rich environment promoting sensory integration and regulation
- Reduced anxiety and stress through exposure to natural surroundings
- Improved physical fitness and motor skills development
- Opportunities for social interaction in a relaxed, unstructured setting
Participants can expect a 90-minute guided experience that combines gentle exercise with mindful observation of the local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper connection with nature while accommodating various sensory needs. These walks exemplify the festival’s commitment to providing inclusive, autism-friendly activities that celebrate neurodiversity and promote well-being.
Accommodation: Best Western Sheffield City Hotel
Located just a short walk from the festival venues including Sheffield Town Hall and Sheffield Hallam University, the hotel offers:
- Quiet room options upon request
- Staff trained in neurodiversity awareness
- Breakfast and dining options in a calm, accessible setting
- Easy transport links and on-site assistance
Guests are encouraged to contact the hotel directly to discuss any specific accessibility or sensory accommodation needs ahead of their stay.
