Using a sensory room

What is a sensory room?

A room may contain some or all of the following: lights | fibre optics | bubble tubes | sound equipment | vibrating equipment | visual effects projected onto the wall.

Developing sessions in a sensory room is about imagination and your relationship with the person you are supporting.

Sessions need to be carefully thought through. You need to be comfortable and familiar with an effect before becoming flexible in its use.

Why is a sensory room useful?

• Relaxation: soft music, soft lighting, no pressure.
• Choice/Control: show preferences – operate switches.
• Communication: through body language, turn taking.
• Movement: the freedom to move safely.
• A sensory room can be a place where Intensive Interaction takes place.
• You are the most important piece of equipment.

Where can I find out more?

Renowned multi-sensory room centre based in Worcester: “Snoezelen aims to create an atmosphere of trust and relaxation through pleasurable sensory experiences. When you enter Snoezelen, everything you see, hear, smell or touch is designed to stimulate an active response, encouraging a feeling of being in control of your own environment and being able to explore at your own pace.”https://www.worcestersnoezelen.org.uk/

Where to hire a sensory room in Oxfordshire?

Redlands Day Service Centre in Banbury rent out their new on-site sensory room and give training for carers who have not used the equipment before.
Cost: £2.50 per service user, per hour, payable on the day.
Contact: Redlands Day Service on: Tel: 01295 263594 Fax: 01295 267309

Oxsrad Sports and Leisure Club in Oxford hire out their sensory room and provide training on how to use it.
Cost: £3.50 per 60 minute session
Contact: OXSRAD, Court Farm Place, Marsh Lane, Marston, Oxford. Tel: 01865 741336
E-mail: info@oxsrad.org OXSRAD Website