St John Community Transport Services Provides Sensory Safe Space

News from St John - 17 Jan 2025

Everyone deserves a place where they can feel safe. For people on the autism spectrum, having access to sensory safe spaces within their community is important for their well-being.

Many autistic adults deal with challenges that can make environments feel overwhelming or tough to handle. These challenges can lead to stress when reacting to different sensory experiences. For instance, bright lights, loud conversations, music, and rough textures can be hard to manage.

The federal government has unveiled the first-ever National Autism Strategy, a seven-year plan aimed at creating “a safe and inclusive society where all autistic people are supported and empowered to thrive.”

Having sensory sensitivities can create barriers for people with autism that make things like traveling on public transport or commuting to and from work difficult.

“Attitudes, practices and structures in a neurotypical world can create barriers that impact on autistic people being able to participate fully and equally in the community,” the strategy reads.

The strategy outlines a commitment to Improve access to quality, timely, neurodiversity-affirming and equitable support and services for autistic people, including for people living in rural, regional and remote areas.

As a neuro-affirming organization, St John Queensland is committed to enhancing the lives of members of the autistic community through the provision of Community Transport Services. St John provides a sensory-friendly alternative to public transport, effectively removing barriers for those who find exposure to overstimulating environments challenging.

By offering reliable, door-to-door service, we create a safe space free from triggers and heightened stimulation, allowing our clients to travel with confidence and comfort.

Key features of our Community Transport Service include:

  • Reliable, door-to-door service – Our transport options are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals who may struggle with traditional public transport.
  • Clean, quiet vehicles designed to create a calm travel environment.
  • Easily recognisable visual details – Clearly help clients identify the vehicle that is there to collect them.
  • First aid trained drivers – Our drivers are trained in first aid, ensuring the security and comfort of families during their journeys.
  • Simple booking options – We offer easy booking through email, phone, or SMS, making our services accessible to all.

The National Strategy identifies older Australians as one of the key demographics who will benefit from the strategy outcomes.

“Many older people who were not diagnosed Autistic as children or earlier in life are misdiagnosed or have their symptoms dismissed, leading to social isolation and marginalisation. Sensory sensitivities can become more pronounced with age. This can impact on community and social connection, leading to increased risk of isolation, loneliness, neglect or exploitation. The combination of these factors can have detrimental effects on their mental health and well-being”, the strategy states.

In addition to our transport services, St John Queensland also provide inclusive volunteering opportunities that foster social inclusion for members of the autistic community. These opportunities empower individuals and promote understanding and acceptance within the broader community.

Today access to information and support resources about autism has come a long way and the National Strategy is the next step forward.

Amaze is a leading autism awareness organisation that was originally created by a group of parents struggling to find access to resources about autism. Amaze provides access to resources training for people who are newly diagnosed with autism, parents and carers, educators, employers and members of the general public who are looking to learn more about autism and how they can offer support to members of the autistic community.

“The release of Australia’s first National Autism Strategy and First Action Plan is a significant first step towards improving autism inclusion, particularly through the Strategy’s commitment to increasing accessible and sensory-friendly spaces and initial action (in the Action Plan) to evaluate and adapt existing resources around best practice accessibility and inclusion. Supported by further actions and investment over time, we are hopeful the Strategy can drive meaningful inclusion for Autistic people in all places they live, work and play”. – Alexandra Lazarus-Priestley, Amaze Chief Change Officer 

St John encourages all stakeholders to engage with support organisations like Amaze and explore the National Autism Strategy to identify ways that they can contribute to creating a more inclusive environment for autistic individuals. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

For more information about eligibility and registering for Community Transport Services contact [email protected] or call 1300 785 646.