Relaxed Ice Skating sessions, which take place every Monday from 10.30-11.30am at the Linx Ice Arena, were delivered free of charge on Monday 2^nd October.

The free session tied in with ‘Autism Hour’, part of the ‘Too Much Information’ campaign being run by leading autism charity, the National Autistic Society.

The autism friendly sessions, run in partnership with Me TOO!, are open to skaters of all ages and abilities and run throughout the year. The sessions focus on encouraging people with additional support needs to try the sport, offering a safe and welcoming environment with no music and muted lighting.

Sport Aberdeen is proud to offer a range of autism friendly classes throughout the week including relaxed family swimming sessions at both Tullos Swimming Pool and the Beach Leisure Centre.

Sport Aberdeen’s Linx Ice Arena and Beach Leisure Centre have recently been certified as Autism Friendly, making the Granite City’s ice rink the first to receive this award in the UK.

Commenting, Sport Aberdeen’s Director for Sport and Active Lifestyles, Jo Bell said:

“Sport Aberdeen is committed to inspiring people and changing lives through sport and physical activity and recognises the importance of raising awareness of day-to-day barriers faced by people, young and old, living with lifelong conditions and illnesses.

“We pride ourselves on creating opportunities for people of all abilities to enjoy getting active and are constantly looking for ways to improve both our programmes on offer and the environments we create in our facilities. With certified autism friendly centres and trained staff, we are well on our way to providing safe and welcoming environments where people can engage in sport throughout Aberdeen.”