Wexford charity partners with Gorey Market House Festival to create more inclusive spaces
Chairperson, Vincent Dixon spoke about the collaboration, saying this year is experimental to see what is needed for the future. 'The plan this year is to just go for it and really see what we need for festival going forward.
'It's making the festival more enjoyable for members of the community, who would usually struggle. Because they need that space to go back to when they need it, so they can relax,' Vincent said.
Vincent got involved with the charity two years ago and was appointed chairperson in October 2024. He spoke about the positive direction Gorey has made for inclusion in the community. 'People are much more understanding of it. People make the effort to make places quitter for children. A lot of businesses are welcoming us in for activities too,' he added.
Later that evening, Advocates for Autism will set up a sensory stall on Gorey Main Street to provide information and resources to those in need. Their sensory toolkit will be available at the stall. They will also be taking suggestions and feedback for future planning for inclusivity at other events.
Advocates for Autism shared on their Facebook page: 'This is more than just a festival – it's a movement for inclusion, understanding, and change. Let's make Wexford a place where neurodiverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered.'
Advocates for Autism was set up by a group of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2011.
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Irish Independent
3 days ago
- Irish Independent
Wexford charity partners with Gorey Market House Festival to create more inclusive spaces
AFA is a Gorey based charity, which offers support for families in north Wexford. The collaboration includes a sensory picnic, which will take place on Saturday, July 19, at 1pm in Gorey Town Park. The event will include sensory toys and other equipment from the Starlight Room, located at Gorey Business Park. Families will also be able to access ear defenders, fidget toys, sunglasses, blankets, and more to help create a calmer, more enjoyable experience for everyone at the festival. Chairperson, Vincent Dixon spoke about the collaboration, saying this year is experimental to see what is needed for the future. 'The plan this year is to just go for it and really see what we need for festival going forward. 'It's making the festival more enjoyable for members of the community, who would usually struggle. Because they need that space to go back to when they need it, so they can relax,' Vincent said. Vincent got involved with the charity two years ago and was appointed chairperson in October 2024. He spoke about the positive direction Gorey has made for inclusion in the community. 'People are much more understanding of it. People make the effort to make places quitter for children. A lot of businesses are welcoming us in for activities too,' he added. Later that evening, Advocates for Autism will set up a sensory stall on Gorey Main Street to provide information and resources to those in need. Their sensory toolkit will be available at the stall. They will also be taking suggestions and feedback for future planning for inclusivity at other events. Advocates for Autism shared on their Facebook page: 'This is more than just a festival – it's a movement for inclusion, understanding, and change. Let's make Wexford a place where neurodiverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered.' Advocates for Autism was set up by a group of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 2011.
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Kerry farmer to take on 50-hours of ‘shear craic' for charity
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‘We waited, hoped and fought for this class. It's like a cruel betrayal' – parents frustrated after promised autism class is withdrawn
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