Cricket club ups accessibility with new sensory room

Derbyshire County Cricket Club has taken another step towards improving accessibility at its ground by opening a new sensory room.

The club recently opened the new room at The County Ground, in partnership with The Whistle Foundation.

The room, located in the Pavilion, provides a safe space for supporters with sensory issues.

Following its officially opening during the club’s recent Rothesay County Championship fixture against Gloucestershire, the room is now available to be pre-booked.

Derbyshire consulted with charities, as well as other industry-leading sports clubs, when designing and installing the Sensory Room, with several fibre-optic light fittings, 3D  wall features, soft seating and more.

It offers a capacity for four children, accompanied by a carer, at any time, to ensure the room remains a calm and enjoyable space for those who need it.

The latest addition is part of Derbyshire’s ongoing commitment to making The County Ground the most accessible venue in English cricket.

In recent years it has installed wheelchair viewing bays, improved accessible toilets and a multi-faith room.

Amy Brett, the club’s customer/accessibility liaison, said: “The County Ground is a venue for all and with our Sensory Room, we want to create a calming and safe space, which will aid emotional and sensory regulation, building confidence in social settings and, with the support of The Whistle Foundation, raise awareness and support.

“This is our latest development, as we aim to make The County Ground one of the most accessible and inclusive venues in the country.

“We want to break down inclusion barriers, to ensure everyone feels welcome when attending matches or events.”

Bella Hopcraft, disability development officer at Derbyshire Cricket Foundation, said: “The room is a fabulous addition to The County Ground, allowing everyone to enjoy cricket in a way that is comfortable to them.

“It’s a move towards making cricket a game for everyone, and I know it will be put to great use across the summer.”