Parents slam Irn- Bru Carnival autism event
THE Irn- Bru Carnival is gearing up for its second autism session after the first one was branded “shambolic”. Parents claim they were left disappointed after the iconic Glasgow event experienced a “technical fault” which left autistic children extremely upset.
It is understood that a ticket scanning error meant families were forced to wait in multiple long queues, which can be challenging for those with autism who may be hyper- focused or struggle with social cues.
It was the first of two sessions held for neurodivergent people at the carnival at the SECC on Friday, December 23.
The second event will take place on Tuesday, January 10 with organisers promising a better experience for visitors.
Speaking to the Glasgow Times, one family who attended the first session said: “It didn’t feel well organised, so many kids in the queue were upset and it was stressing parents out, of course.
“It was far too long a wait for this type of event, especially when we had booked in advance.
“It was utterly shambolic.” The event promised surroundings would be more comfortable for guests, with the main hall lights turned down, music turned off and rides operating at a slower pace.
No one with a general entry ticket could be granted access to the hall at this time, in a bid to offer
a quieter time to visit. But some parents also criticised the autism sessions for being overcrowded and overstimulating.
One mum told the Glasgow Times: “It was horrendous.
“The knock- on effect for our boy lasted days, he was angry at having to wait, it spoiled his overall enjoyment of the day.
“Once home, he was not able to cope with things and was crying.
“Everyone knows that to make something autism friendly requires
more thought than turning the music down.”
A spokesperson for the Irn- Bru Carnival said: “We unfortunately experienced a technical issue before the Carnival on 23 December.
“Although this was outwith our control, it is not the experience we intended to provide and we apologise to any visitors who had to queue for longer than expected.”
The National Autistic Society Scotland has been contacted for comment.