Disco Bowl SEN and SEMH Visitor Policy

Purpose:

Disco Bowl is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable experience for all visitors, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. This policy outlines the measures and accommodations that Disco Bowl provides to support SEN and SEMH children and adults.

Accessibility and Inclusivity:

Disco Bowl ensures that the bowling centre is physically accessible to individuals with disabilities by providing ramps, accessible toilets, and appropriately spaced seating. If requested in advance by the booking party, we are able to offer sensory-friendly sessions with reduced noise levels, dimmed lighting, and a quieter environment to accommodate those with sensory sensitivities. We provide visual aids and clear signage throughout the venue to assist visitors with communication and understanding. Personal assistants or carers are able to accompany SEN and SEMH visitors free of charge or at a discounted rate to support their needs. We encourage a culture of patience, sensitivity, and respect among staff towards all visitors, particularly those with SEN and SEMH needs. To ensure that the specific needs of SEN and SEMH visitors can be met upon arrival, we are able to offer pre-booking for sessions. Upon request, we are able to work with carers or guardians to develop personalised support plans for visitors, detailing any specific needs or accommodations.

Safety Measures:

Disco Bowl conducts regular risk assessments considering the specific needs of SEN and SEMH visitors to identify any potential hazards and implement appropriate controls. All visitors, including those with SEN and SEMH needs, must adhere to safety protocols to ensure a safe environment for themselves and others. We ensure that visitors do not engage in behaviour that could pose a danger to themselves or others, and our staff are trained to identify and manage situations where behaviour may become unsafe. If a visitor’s behaviour becomes a concern, our staff will engage with the visitor and their carers to provide appropriate support and interventions to maintain a safe environment for everyone.

Music and Lighting Policy:

During “Disco Bowling” sessions, music and rainbow lighting effects are a constant feature, creating the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that defines our brand. We understand that some visitors may have sensory sensitivities or conditions that could be affected by this environment. If requested, we are able to adjust the rainbow lighting to white for specific lanes to better accommodate these needs. Visitors are encouraged to check whether a “Disco Bowling” session will be active when booking and to inform us of any special requirements in advance to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Collaboration and Compliance:

We are able to collaborate with local SEN and SEMH organisations to better understand the needs of these communities and improve our service offerings. We ensure that all policies and practices comply with relevant legislation, such as the Equality Act 2010 and any local regulations regarding accessibility and inclusivity. We also conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with this policy and make adjustments as needed.