Cinemas hope to make reel difference for autistic fans

TWO cinema chains have teamed up with a charity to hold monthly film screenings for people with autism.

The screenings have sound levels turned down, the lights left up at a low level and film-goers are able to make noise and sit where they feel comfortable.

Not for profit organisation Dimensions, which supports people living with autism and people with learning disabilities, is working in partnership with the Cineworld and Odeon chains. Dimensions director Lisa Hopkins said the cinema could often be a challenging environment for someone with autism.

She said: “People who can sometimes be excluded from the traditional cinema experience, because they may find the sensory experience too difficult to manage, will be able to watch a wider variety of films, more frequently, in an environment conducive with their needs. These opportunities are important stepping stones towards full inclusion in mainstream cinemas.”