Four people and their support team from Thornfield Grange, Hope House and Hollyhurst were invited to tour the stadium, take part in the Flag Parade before the game and use their family and autism-friendly facilities throughout the match.
One member of the support team said, “Middlesbrough FC have been absolutely fantastic and the four people who attended had a brilliant time, they loved it.
“For all of them, it was the first time they had been to such a large-scale sporting event and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. For all of the people who went, because they have an autism spectrum condition, large events can be difficult.
“However, the club had made sure they could get used to the ground, had access throughout the game to their family sensory room should the noise or crowd be too much for them and still watch the match from there, and then leave after the crowds had gone.
“All of these touches helped manage any anxiety the group might have had. The Club thought of everything and really could not have been more helpful. We’d like to say a huge thank you to them.
“This was a great opportunity for everyone to experience something they hadn’t done before.”
Yvonne Ferguson, head of supporter services at Middlesbrough FC, said, “We are very proud of our Matchday Sensory Room and the matchday experience we are able to give to our special guests. As a football club we are always striving to improve and enhance what we offer all fans. We want the Riverside to be all-inclusive and welcoming for all.”
For further information on Middlesbrough FC’s Matchday Sensory Room contact Yvonne at [email protected] or 01642 757648.