Wandsworth residents with learning difficulties can now enjoy special screenings of the latest movies thanks to a new tie-up between Wandsworth council and the local Cineworld cinema branch.
According to the council, people with learning disabilities often find the light too low and the volume too high at cinemas and, in some cases, may not realise that they have to stay still and quiet. The dedicated screenings will entail keeping lights on at a low level and ensure the soundtrack isn’t too high and will also offer a more tolerant environment for those who want to chat, move around or sing along to music.
Mark Honan, manager of the council’s Better Days project for people with learning disabilities, said the Better Days strategy aimed to find ways to increase people’s choices and opportunities, especially out in the community.
“These special screenings are a valuable step along the way. Once our clients become more used to the cinema environment, and gain an understanding of appropriate audience behaviour, the hope is that some of them will develop the confidence and independence to attend mainstream scheduled cinema screenings.”
Cineworld general manager Hencok Osei-Kissi said the chain were “delighted to be working with the council’s Better Days project to reach disabled people and their families by providing them with the opportunity to enjoy the cinema experience.”
The showings will take place every two months and are open to all adults with learning disabilities, including those who do not attend the council’s day care services.
