Veolia Gillmoss Discovery Centre declared ‘Autism Friendly’

The Autism Friendly Award is an accreditation programme set up by the National Autistic Society to help businesses cater for autistic people.   

Businesses are required to meet set standards and follow a framework to demonstrate that they offer an autism-friendly environment and service. More than 300 organisations are currently accredited. 

The discovery centre is operated by Veolia on behalf of Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority and is a purpose-built education facility that offers tours and education sessions throughout the year.  

During events, visitors are guided on what can and can’t be recycled and go on a tour of the facility to learn more about the journey of recycling after it’s been collected from homes across Merseyside and Halton. 

Steve Mitchell, regional director at Veolia, said: “I am thrilled that the Recycling Discovery Centre at Gillmoss has received this recognition from the National Autistic Society.  

“It reflects Veolia’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity across the business and our dedication to providing a welcoming experience for all our visitors. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn about recycling and ecological transformation in a comfortable and accessible setting.” 

What makes the Gillmoss Recycling Discovery Centre ‘Autism Friendly’? 

The Gillmoss Recycling Discovery Centre conducted a review of its facilities, practices and staff training as part of the accreditation process.  

As a result, it introduced ‘Relaxed SEN’ sessions to provide a more accommodating environment for its autistic visitors. The sessions have reduced sound and fewer visitors to help ease stress levels. 

Staff training was also adjusted to provide information on the challenges autistic people may face when visiting the centre.  

Additionally, the website and facility were enhanced to be more autism-friendly, particularly when it comes to potential sensory overload.  

Veolia has said that it hopes to use the experience at Gillmoss to gain accreditation at its other education facilities.