Heard of sensory friendly cinema screenings at Arc Cinemas and want to know more about…
What is a Vue Autism-Friendly Screening?
Want to know more about Vue’s autism-friendly screenings? We’ve got you covered with all the details you need! If you or someone you know is autistic or has sensory sensitivities, going to the cinema can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming.
Vue Cinemas have made some brilliant changes to help make cinema trips more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. In this guide we cover what these screenings are, how they work, and why they’re a great option for autistic people and their families.
What Is a Vue Autism-Friendly Screening?
Autism-friendly screenings are specially designed film showings that create a supportive and inclusive environment for autistic people and those with sensory sensitivities.
Held on the last Sunday of every month at most Vue locations, these screenings are adapted to provide a more comfortable experience, making a trip to the cinema enjoyable for everyone.
Vue’s autism-friendly screenings make a big difference by adjusting the cinema setting in a way that reduces sensory overload.
What Adaptions are Made for Autism-Friendly Screenings?
The main goal is to make sure that autistic people and their families can relax and have fun without the stress that might come with a typical cinema experience.
Here’s what makes these different to standard showings:
- Lower Sound Levels: The volume is reduced compared to regular showings, which helps to prevent the overwhelming effect of loud noises.
- Dimmed Lighting: The cinema is not completely dark. Lights are dimmed but still on, making the environment less daunting and allowing guests to see around them easily.
- No Adverts or Trailers: The film starts right at the scheduled time without any trailers or adverts. This helps to keep the atmosphere calm and minimises waiting times.
- Freedom to Move and Make Noise: Unlike regular screenings, there’s no expectation for guests to sit still or stay quiet. It’s perfectly fine to move around, make noise, or step out for a break if needed.
- Assistance Dogs Welcome: Vue welcomes assistance dogs to all their autism-friendly screenings, ensuring that guests who rely on them feel comfortable and supported.
These adjustments help create a safe and enjoyable cinema experience tailored to the needs of autistic people. Vue’s commitment to providing a sensory-friendly setting ensures that everyone can enjoy their favourite films on the big screen without any added stress.
How to Book Vue Autism-Friendly Screenings
Booking autism-friendly cinema screenings at Vue is simple. You can book tickets online through Vue’s website, at the cinema in person, or by calling their booking line at 0345 308 4620.
Do Vue Offer Discounts for Disabled People?
Yes, Vue offers discounts for disabled guests through the national CEA card scheme. The CEA card allows disabled cinema-goers to bring a carer with them for free, making it a fantastic way to save on trips to the cinema.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a CEA card:
- Visit the CEA Card Website: Go to the official CEA card website, where you can fill out the application form online or download it to complete by hand.
- Provide Proof of Eligibility: To qualify for the card, you need to provide proof of disability. Acceptable documents include Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Attendance Allowance, or similar evidence that confirms your eligibility.
- Pay the Application Fee: There’s a small fee (currently £6) to cover the processing of your application. This fee is a one-time charge for the card, which is valid for one year.
- Receive Your CEA Card: Once your application is approved, your CEA card will be sent to you by post. You can then use it when booking tickets online, in person at the cinema, or over the phone at any participating venue, including all Vue cinemas.
The CEA card not only offers a financial saving but also ensures that disabled guests have the support they need during their cinema visits.
It’s accepted at over 90% of UK cinemas, making it a convenient and valuable resource for those who qualify. For further information or to apply, visit the CEA card website.
Which Vue Cinemas Offer Autism-Friendly Screenings?
Most Vue cinemas across the UK hold monthly autism-friendly screenings. Here’s a list of participating cinemas with links to their accessibility pages:
| Cinema | Accessibility Page |
|---|---|
| Aberdeen | Accessibility |
| Accrington | Accessibility |
| Altrincham | Accessibility |
| Ashbourne | Accessibility |
| Barrow | Accessibility |
| Basingstoke Festival Place | Accessibility |
| Bedford | Accessibility |
| Bicester | Accessibility |
| Birkenhead | Accessibility |
| Birmingham | Accessibility |
| Blackburn | Accessibility |
| Bolton | Accessibility |
| Bristol – Cribbs Causeway | Accessibility |
| Bristol – Longwell Green | Accessibility |
| Bury The Rock | Accessibility |
| Camberley | Accessibility |
| Cambridge | Accessibility |
| Cardiff | Accessibility |
| Carlisle | Accessibility |
| Carmarthen | Accessibility |
| Cheshire Oaks | Accessibility |
| Cleveleys | Accessibility |
| Cramlington | Accessibility |
| Croydon – Purley Way | Accessibility |
| Croydon – Grant’s | Accessibility |
| Cwmbran | Accessibility |
| Dagenham | Accessibility |
| Darlington | Accessibility |
| Doncaster | Accessibility |
| Dublin | Accessibility |
| Eastleigh | Accessibility |
| Edinburgh – Ocean Terminal | Accessibility |
| Edinburgh – Omni Centre | Accessibility |
| Eltham | Accessibility |
| Exeter | Accessibility |
| Farnborough | Accessibility |
| Gateshead | Accessibility |
| Glasgow | Accessibility |
| Halifax | Accessibility |
| Hamilton | Accessibility |
| Harrow | Accessibility |
| Hartlepool | Accessibility |
| Hull | Accessibility |
| Inverness | Accessibility |
| Lancaster | Accessibility |
| Leamington Spa | Accessibility |
| Leeds – Kirkstall Road | Accessibility |
| Leeds – The Light | Accessibility |
| Leicester | Accessibility |
| Limerick | Accessibility |
| Livingston | Accessibility |
| London – Acton | Accessibility |
| London – Finchley North | Accessibility |
| London – Finchley Road (O2 Centre) | Accessibility |
| London – Fulham Broadway | Accessibility |
| London – Wood Green | Accessibility |
| London – Islington (Angel) | Accessibility |
| London – Leicester Square (West End) | Accessibility |
| London – Piccadilly | Accessibility |
| London – Shepherds Bush | Accessibility |
| London – Westfield | Accessibility |
| London – Westfield Stratford | Accessibility |
| Manchester | Accessibility |
| Merthyr Tydfil | Accessibility |
| Newbury | Accessibility |
| Newcastle Under Lyme | Accessibility |
| Northampton | Accessibility |
| Norwich | Accessibility |
| Oxford | Accessibility |
| Plymouth | Accessibility |
| Portsmouth | Accessibility |
| Preston | Accessibility |
| Reading | Accessibility |
| Redditch | Accessibility |
| Rhyl | Accessibility |
| Romford | Accessibility |
| Scunthorpe | Accessibility |
| Sheffield | Accessibility |
| Southport | Accessibility |
| Staines | Accessibility |
| Stirling | Accessibility |
| Stroud | Accessibility |
| Swansea | Accessibility |
| Thanet | Accessibility |
| Thurrock | Accessibility |
| Torbay | Accessibility |
| Watford | Accessibility |
| Worcester | Accessibility |
| York | Accessibility |
These screenings offer a supportive environment for families and individuals who find traditional cinema settings overwhelming. Make sure to check your local Vue cinema’s accessibility page for more details on upcoming autism-friendly screenings and other accessible features.
Other Cinemas That Offer Autism-Friendly Screenings
If you’re looking for more options besides Vue, here are some other UK cinema chains that offer autism-friendly screenings.
| Cinema Chain | What They Offer | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Cineworld | Offers sensory-friendly screenings on the first Sunday of each month. Features dimmed lighting, softer sound, and a relaxed atmosphere where viewers can move around freely. | Learn More |
| Odeon Cinemas | Hosts autism-friendly screenings typically once a month on Sundays. Includes dimmed lighting, lower sound levels, no adverts, and a relaxed environment. | Learn More |
| Picturehouse Cinemas | Provides autism-friendly screenings with adjusted sound and lighting, creating a supportive space for autistic viewers and families. | Learn More |
| Arc Cinemas | Offers sensory-friendly screenings with dimmed lights, reduced sound, and a relaxed setting where guests can feel comfortable and move freely. | Learn More |
These cinemas are committed to creating an accessible and welcoming environment, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a stress-free trip to the movies.
Overall
Vue’s autism-friendly screenings are a brilliant initiative, making the magic of cinema accessible to everyone. With adapted environments, reduced sensory input, and a welcoming atmosphere, these screenings are perfect for those who need a more comfortable viewing experience.
FAQs
What are autism-friendly cinema screenings?
Autism-friendly cinema screenings are special film showings designed to accommodate autistic individuals and those with sensory sensitivities. They feature lower sound levels, dimmed lighting, no adverts, and a relaxed policy that allows guests to move around freely.
How do I book tickets for autism-friendly screenings at Vue?
You can book tickets online, at the cinema, or by calling Vue’s booking line on 0345 308 4620. Look for screenings labelled as Autism-Friendly to ensure you’re booking the right show.
Do Vue cinemas offer discounts for disabled people?
Yes, Vue participates in the national CEA card scheme, allowing disabled guests to get a free carer ticket. It’s a great way to save on cinema trips, and the CEA card can be used when booking online, in person, or over the phone.
What other cinemas offer autism-friendly screenings?
In addition to Vue, other major UK cinemas like Odeon, Cineworld, Picturehouse, and Arc Cinemas offer similar autism-friendly screenings. These cinemas make similar adaptations with sound, lighting, and environment to create a comfortable experience.
Can I take my assistance dog to autism-friendly screenings at Vue?
Yes, assistance dogs are welcome at all Vue cinemas, including during autism-friendly screenings. If you have any specific needs or questions, feel free to speak to staff at the venue. Vue’s autism-friendly screenings include a variety of films, from family favourites to action-packed blockbusters.
What should I expect at an autism-friendly screening?
You can expect a quieter, more relaxed environment with dimmed lighting, no adverts, and the freedom for guests to move around and make noise. It’s all about creating a comfortable and enjoyable cinema experience.
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