Swindon Town Football Club is delighted to announce the official opening of our brand-new, non-pitch-facing Sensory Room at the Nigel Eady County Ground, a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to ensuring football is accessible, enjoyable, and inclusive for all.
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The purpose-built space has been created to offer a safe, calming, and welcoming environment for supporters who are neurodivergent, including individuals with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing needs. Designed with both comfort and engagement in mind, the room features an array of football-themed sensory equipment such as bubble tubes, ambient lighting, tactile resources, and soothing soundscapes. These elements have been carefully selected to help reduce sensory overload while still allowing fans to enjoy the excitement of a matchday at their own pace.
Caroline Lane, Swindon Town’s Disability Liaison Officer, expressed her pride and gratitude as the project reached completion: “This dedicated space is designed to support and welcome fans who are neurodivergent, including those with ADHD and autism. The room features a range of football-themed sensory equipment, including bubble tubes, sensory lights, and calming sounds, all carefully chosen to create a comfortable and inclusive matchday experience.”
Caroline also extended heartfelt thanks to the many individuals, groups, and partners whose commitment and generosity turned years of planning into a reality. Key contributors include the Swindon Town Official Supporters Club, TrustSTFC, Swindon Business Group, and Swindon Town Community Foundation, with funding drawn from several grants.
The club also received remarkable backing from supporters, including donations to the GoFundMe page and proceeds from the auction of specially commissioned Level Playing Field shirts signed by the first-team squad in February 2024.
Their collective effort highlights the strength of community spirit surrounding Swindon Town Football Club, and the club’s shared determination to make football accessible for everyone.
After years of tireless fundraising, collaboration, and consultation with families and experts, the Sensory Room is now ready to make a meaningful difference to supporters who may find traditional matchday settings overwhelming. It represents not only an important milestone in improving accessibility at the County Ground, but also a powerful message of inclusion—ensuring every fan feels valued, supported, and able to share in the matchday experience.
Swindon Town, look forward to welcoming supporters into the new Sensory Room from this weekend’s home fixture and beyond, as we continue to work towards a stadium environment that embraces every member of our football family.