Visiting the Senedd: Support for Neurodivergent People
We want everyone to feel welcome at the Senedd. If you are neurodivergent, or supporting someone who is, this page provides helpful information to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
What to Expect During Your Visit
We understand that new environments can be overwhelming. Here’s what you can expect when visiting the Senedd:
- Arrival: You’ll enter through the main entrance, where security staff will greet you. Airport-style security checks are in place, and all visitors must be scanned before entering. If you, or someone in your party finds queuing or security checks difficult, please ask to speak to security staff who are trained to be supportive and respectful. You can also ask for the beep of the metal detector arch to be silenced.
- Sensory environment: The building can be busy and noisy, especially during events. Lighting is natural in most areas but some spaces may have brighter artificial lighting.
- Quiet spaces: If you need a break, ask a member of staff to guide you to our dedicated quiet room.
- Signage: Clear signs are placed throughout the building. Staff are always happy to help if you need directions.
Planning Ahead
To help you prepare, we offer visual guides that explain what you can expect including sounds and spaces.
Planning Ahead
To help you prepare, we offer visual guides that explain what you can expect including sounds and spaces.
Sensory issues across our estate
Sensory issues across our estate (easy read version)
These are the types of sounds you might hear including the fire alarm and Plenary bell.
Senedd Fire Alarm
The fire alarm is tested on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at around 8.30. If you hear the fire alarm at any other time, a member of staff will tell you what to do and where to go. Click the play button below to listen to the sound of the fire alarm.
Senedd Plenary Bell
When Plenary takes place on a Tuesday and Wednesday, you can expect to hear the noise of the Call to Plenary bell at 13.20 and 13.25 to call Members to the Siambr to vote. If you are hypersensitive to sound you may wish to plan your visit to avoid the Call to Plenary bell. Click the play button below to listen to the sound of the Call to Plenary bell.
Pierhead Fire Alarm
The fire alarm is tested every Monday morning at around 9.00, before visitors are allowed into the building. If the fire alarm sounds at any other time a member of staff will instruct you what to do. Click the play button below to listen to the sound of the fire alarm.
Tŷ Hywel Fire Alarm
The fire alarm is tested every Monday morning at around 08.45. If the fire alarm sounds at any other time a member of staff will instruct you what to do. If you are hypersensitive to sound you may wish to plan your visit to avoid the fire alarm test. Click the play button below to listen to the sound of the Fire Alarm.
Tŷ Hywel Plenary Bell
When Plenary takes place on a Tuesday and Wednesday you can expect to hear the noise of the Call to Plenary bell at 13.20 and 13.25 to call Members to the Siambr to vote. If you are hypersensitive to sound you may wish to plan your visit to avoid the Call to Plenary bell. Click the play button below to listen to the sound of the Call to Plenary bell.
Support
If you have specific needs or questions before your visit, please contact us.
To request hard copies or other formats such as large print and Braille, please contact us
