Legoland Windsor has become the first UK theme park to be awarded the National Autistic Society (NAS)’s Autism Friendly Award.

The award is handed out to firms that provide an autism friendly environment and inclusive customer service for autistic people.

Support available at the Berkshire theme park includes autism training for staff and providing access passes for those who cannot queue for long times.

“Receiving this accreditation is an important milestone for the Legoland Windsor team, and we're deeply grateful to the National Autistic Society for their support and recognition,” said Kate McNBirnie, global head of accessibility at Merlin Entertainments, which runs the theme park.

The provision of sensory spaces, ear defenders, flash and communication cards and accessibility information at the attraction are also commended by the charity.

NAS head of autism accreditation and projects Christine Flintoft-Smith added: “It’s fantastic that LEGOLAND Windsor is the first theme park in the UK to achieve the Autism Friendly Award and we congratulate the team on all their hard work to create a more autism-friendly place.

“It’s so important for theme parks, and all public leisure spaces, to be more inclusive for autistic people and their families, so that everyone can be supported to enjoy a fun day out.

“There are lots of changes venues can make, such as autism training for all staff, sensory rooms, clear signs and information, and a range of communication formats.

“We hope many more theme parks follow LEGOLAND Windsor’s lead and show up for autistic people by becoming a more autism-friendly space, to help create a society that truly works for autistic people.”

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