Hello! I'm Alex Kegie, founder of Nurologik, on a mission to champion neuroinclusion at events and beyond. As an autistic individual with sensory sensitivities, I've navigated environments that often felt overwhelming. Through lived experiences and wellbeing awareness as a mental health first aider, I've dedicated myself to crafting spaces that accommodate those with and without neurodivergence.
At Nurologik, we understand the importance of recognising and accommodating all eight senses. Our approach emphasises creating environments that respect diverse sensory needs, fostering inclusivity for everyone.
I was thrilled that Nurologik was invited to create a pop-up low-sensory space, the NuroCove, at the Communities of Practice: Start Something Good® Hackathon delivered by the Centre for Digital Public Services in collaboration with Cwmpas at sbarc|spark in Cardiff.
Setting up
As always, setting up the NuroCove was fast-paced and high-pressured. However, I was greeted with many kind offers of help and we got to work to make sure the room was all up and ready for the event attendees. My heartfelt thanks go out to all those that helped on the day!
The NuroCove
The NuroCove featured soft furnishings, calm lighting, and an array of self-regulation aids such as fidget toys, noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets and more.
We received some wonderfully positive feedback.
“It really helped me… and gave me a calm space to decompress for a while.”
“An amazing idea to increase the accessibility of conferences and events, giving people with neurodivergencies, a safe space to take a break… Would love to see this in more event spaces as it really made a difference!”
The NuroCove received a steady flow of visitors throughout the day. Some out of curiosity, some out of necessity. It was so heartwarming to see visitors using the space as intended, including those that had a rest in the NuroCave – a small blackout tent filled with a soft mat to lie on and various cushions for comfort.
Additionally, our space hosted engaging activities for those that need increased simulation to relax. From crotchet and chess to colouring and jigsaw puzzles, Nurologik endeavors to provide various options to support the wellbeing of NuroCove visitors.
What is next for Nurologik?
In keeping with the event ethos and my own personal beliefs, I was especially happy to leave with new ideas to develop the space further after speaking to visitors of the NuroCove throughout the day. It was a delight to meet like-minded people that didn’t need to be convinced that ‘safe spaces’ are so very much needed. I am especially looking forward to making changes to the prayer space having received some great feedback from Sam Ali, Digital Programme Consultant and Non-Executive Board Member for CDPS.
Many, many thanks to all those that provided suggestions for improvement. Your help is so very much appreciated.
I invite you all to join me in embracing neuroinclusion, by fostering environments where everyone feels valued and respected. Together, we can cultivate spaces that celebrate the richness of human diversity.
