Hever Castle staff have taken part in training to help them better support autistic visitors.
The training created by the National Autistic Society includes modules such as Understanding Autism, Autism and Communication and Autism and the Sensory Experience.
The training, which has been undertaken by staff from different departments across the estate, was created with the help of autistic people.
As well as helping to support visitors throughout the year coming to Hever Castle, the training has helped staff better understand how to create a Christmas grotto experience which caters for SEN children.
For the first time in 2023, Hever Castle has been offering tailored grotto sessions with no music, limited queueing and crowding and the use of PECS cards and picture story boards.
The autism training is part of a bid to make Hever Castle more accessible for those with impairments and disabilities. It follows the introduction of BSL interpreted Jousting in 2021 and deaf led Christmas tours.
Staff will also be undergoing training from the Alzheimer’s Society, one of Hever Castle’s charities of the year, on how to deal with visitors with dementia.
Learning and Engagement Manager Harriet Waldron said: “We are always looking at ways to make Hever Castle more accessible. We hope that staff training will ensure those visiting who have a disability or additional needs get the most from their visit.”
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.