Developing the "No Surprises" Guide: A Journey of Co-Production and Sensory Awareness
- theaweprojectwales
- May 13
- 2 min read
Picture of the front of a pamphlet Title No Surprises. Image of Emergency Department
Download Here
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Autistic UK and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) Equality Team, alongside Ysbyty Gwynedd Emergency Department, have developed the "No Surprises" guide. This initiative is a testament to the power of co-production, where autistic individuals and health board staff worked together to create a resource that addresses the unique sensory needs of autistic people in emergency settings.
The Co-Production Process
The journey began with a shared vision: to make the Emergency Department (ED) a less daunting place for autistic individuals. Recognising that traditional access audits often overlook sensory needs, Autistic UK and the health board embarked on a mission to fill this gap.
Sensory Audits
Autistic individuals, with their lived experiences, played a crucial role in conducting sensory audits of the ED. These audits involved a thorough examination of the environment, identifying potential sensory triggers such as noise, lighting, and spatial arrangements. The insights gathered were invaluable, highlighting areas that required adjustments to better accommodate sensory sensitivities. The audits were a melting pot of ideas, where personal experiences and professional expertise merged. Autistic participants shared their firsthand experiences of navigating healthcare environments, while staff provided insights into operational constraints and possibilities.
Drafting the Guide
With a wealth of information from the audits, the team set out to draft the "No Surprises" guide. The guide was meticulously crafted to ensure it was comprehensive yet accessible. It covers every aspect of an ED visit, from arrival proced21ures to specific areas like the Majors Unit and Paediatric Room, all through the lens of sensory awareness.
The Importance of Sensory Considerations
One of the key revelations from this project was the realisation that sensory needs are often neglected in traditional access audits. For autistic individuals, sensory overload can be a significant barrier to accessing healthcare. The constant hum of air conditioners, the beeping of medical equipment, and the bustling environment can all contribute to heightened anxiety and distress.
By incorporating sensory audits into the development process, the "No Surprises" guide addresses these challenges head-on. It provides practical information on what to expect, helping to reduce anxiety and make the ED experience more manageable.
Download your guide here No Surprises Guide -Eng
Please follow this link for the Welsh Version
Encouraging Broader Adoption
The success of the "No Surprises" guide serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved through co-production. It underscores the importance of involving autistic individuals in the design and evaluation of healthcare environments. Their lived experiences offer invaluable insights that can lead to more inclusive and supportive spaces.
Autistic UK is now calling on other organisation's to follow suit. By partnering with Autistic UK to conduct sensory audits and develop tailored resources, healthcare providers can ensure their services are truly accessible to all.
Get Involved
If your organisation is interested in making a difference, contact Autistic UK today. Together, we can create environments that are not only physically accessible but also sensory-friendly, ensuring that everyone can receive the care they need without unnecessary stress or discomfort.
Enquiries info@autisticuk.org
