Duke Takes Steps to Make Facilities Sensory Inclusive

Cameron Indoor Stadium, the fabled home of Duke University basketball, is now better prepared to accommodate children and adults with autism, dementia, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and other sensory issues.

As reported by Duke Today, university officials have worked with KultureCity, a Birmingham, Ala.-based nonprofit that creates resources for individuals with sensory needs. KultureCity trained personnel within Duke's Disability Management System, the Facilities and Game Day Operations teams in Duke Athletics and the Game Day Event Staff to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle situations in which guests feel overwhelmed at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

“Being at an event can be overloading to individuals with sensory issues,” said Leigh Fickling, director of Disability Management. “We recognize that guests may have different needs. We’re going to provide the tools to help people have the best possible experience.”

Before attending an event, guests can download the free KultureCity app to view what sensory features are available and where to access them. On the app is the “Social Story,” which provides a preview of what to expect while at an event at Cameron Indoor Stadium.

Starting this week, sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will be available to individuals who may feel overwhelmed during events at Cameron. Visitors will also have use of a dedicated sensory room that is designed to provide a quieter and more secure environment.

Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium, home of Duke football, will be sensory inclusive starting in September 2020.