Watford FC is delighted to mark Autism Acceptance Month, which is celebrated every April and promotes understanding, inclusion and support for autistic people.
It is a landmark year for the club’s provision for supporters with autism, as our trailblazing Sensory Room celebrates a decade since we proudly opened the doors to our supporters later on in 2026.
The Sensory Room was designed for autistic children who may otherwise struggle to cope in the noisy environment on matchdays.
The main aim is to ensure they feel comfortable attending football matches with their families in a safe and calmer environment, with a view to transitioning into seating in the main stadium once they feel confident to do so and at each family’s own pace.
Places are subject to availability and a letter from a doctor/consultant or other healthcare professional may be required when booking.
Parents will also have the option to visit the Sensory Room before matchday if they wish, to check its suitability.
Ear defenders can be provided, and the room is staffed by trained special needs professionals who are on hand to welcome and support families attending the game.
Provision at the stadium on matchdays is also available for adults with autism, such as personal assistant tickets and accessible routes into the stadium.
The Hornets Shop also introduced an inclusive shopping morning every Tuesday with screens and music turned off, to provide a comfortable and accessible shopping experience for those with sensory needs.
The club is also delighted to work with two local autism charities. SPACE Hertfordshire supports more than 11,000 families of neurodivergent children and young people (autism, ADHD, dyslexia and other conditions).
The charity creates inclusive spaces where families feel understood, supported and able to be themselves, with a mission to promote inclusion, reduce isolation and build confidence and resilience.
Through a wide range of services – including free family support, subsidised events, workshops, a SEND lending library, alternative provision and diagnostic services – SPACE provides practical, trusted support for families at every stage of their journey.
Representatives from SPACE will be outside the Hornets Shop at this weekend’s home match against Sheffield United (Saturday April 18, 3:00pm KO).
We’re also proud to be hosting the ‘Game On for Neurodiversity’ football tournament with SPACE Hertfordshire this summer, where 16 local businesses and organisations will compete against each other at the club’s London Colney training ground while raising vital funds to support SPACE’s work and help even more families across the county.
Anna Kennedy Online is a UK autism charity founded by Anna Kennedy OBE, inspired by her journey as a mother to her two autistic sons, Patrick and Angelo.
With a strong focus on awareness, acceptance and inclusion, AKO supports autistic people and their families through advocacy, community, trusted information and uplifting initiatives that celebrate autistic strengths and talent.
Since 2009, the charity has grown from a small online platform into a respected voice in the autism community, helping to break down barriers and create a more understanding and inclusive society.
The charity has also hosted several events, both on matchdays and non-matchdays, which were organised by Jo Wiggins, an AKO charity champion and Hornets Season Ticket holder.
To enquire about spaces in the Sensory Room for matches, to book a pair of ear defenders or discuss other matchday requirements relating to autism spectrum disorder, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call our Supporter Services team on 01923 223023.
You can find out more about SPACE Hertfordshire and Anna Kennedy online by visiting www.spaceherts.org.uk and https://annakennedyonline.com.
