The National Autistic Society is encouraging people to be sensory-aware during Bonfire Night celebrations this year by using your SENSES. 

Many autistic adults and parents of autistic children choose not to celebrate Bonfire Night because it is too noisy, unpredictable and unsettling. For some of the one in 100 people who are autistic, firework displays can cause stress and anxiety, particularly for those with sensory sensitivities.  

With the help of our Facebook community, we have produced a list of helpful tips on ways to make Bonfire Night a positive experience, and enjoyable for all. 

Using your SENSES is a handy acronym to help raise awareness and encourage autism-friendly Bonfire Night celebrations. It stands for:

S   Stick to a plan. 

E   Eat well and keep warm. 

N  Noise. You may want to use headphones or ear defenders. 

S   Safety speech. 

E   Extra distractions. Try putting on the TV. 

S   Set an example.
 

Good planning and communication can help overcome many difficulties. Simple changes like agreeing a plan for the evening, wearing ear defenders, or even watching a firework display on the television at home, can help to ease stress and anxiety.

You can see the full list of tips on our Bonfire night and fireworks advice and guidance page. 

Peter Watt, Director of National Programmes at the National Autistic Society, said: “There are more than 700,000 autistic people in the UK and, for some of those people, Bonfire Night and firework celebrations can be overwhelming.  

"Many autistic people enjoy fireworks, but for others, unexpected flashes and loud bangs, as well as large crowds at displays, can be distressing and trigger intense anxiety. For some autistic people it can even be physically painful if they experience sensitivity to light and sound. 

"We want to encourage everyone to use their SENSES in the run up to Guy Fawkes Night. The easy to remember acronym will help with small adjustments that can make a big difference. Head to our website, autism.org.uk, where you’ll find plenty more advice and information."
 

More information:

• Follow our Bonfire night and fireworks top tips, so the 5th November is a positive experience for autistic people.
• Strategies and tips for coping with sensory differences.