BRAIN FIRST SPACES
Most spaces are really great at doing the work, but not so great at communicating that with the world.
A Kantar study found that 91% of neurodivergent consumers say it's important to buy from companies that are clear about their values, compared to 72% of consumers overall—proof that doing the work without telling the world is a waste of time, energy and money.
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55%
of business owners identify as neurodivergent (roughly 2 million people)
CYPHER -
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64%
of autistic people have avoided a retail space because the experience was too distressing.
National Autistic Society -
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£2bn
UK businesses are losing £2bn per month by ignoring disability needs.
Purple / DWP -
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100%
In a supermarket study, everyone bought less in the standard store and more in the sensory-friendly one.
Bird & Bird
BRAIN FIRST SPACES
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BRAIN FIRST SPACES ☺︎
WHO IT’S FOR _____________CO-WORK SPACES// CAFES// SALONS// SHOPS// GYMS// MUSEUMS// AIRPORTS// PUBLIC SPACES// FOOD HALLS// BARS// EVENT SPACES.
WHAT IT IS:
Brain First Spaces is the accreditation mark for physical spaces that were built for everybrain. Most spaces are designed for one type of nervous system and by default, exclude the rest. Harsh lighting ☀︎ unpredictable noise ⚛︎ no quiet corner ◎ no clear wayfinding ☞ for a neurodivergent person, that's the difference between a place they can use and one they can't.
The Brain First Spaces Mark tells them they can. It's a signal that a space has been assessed against rigorous standards across sensory environment, cognitive accessibility, communication, regulation and staff awareness.
When you see the Mark, you know the space has done the work☺︎
BRAIN FIRST SPACES
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BRAIN FIRST SPACES ☺︎
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Focussed on lighting, acoustics, and scent designed to reduce overwhelm and sensory fatigue.
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Have you created clear wayfinding, predictable layouts and reduced cognitive load throughout the space?
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Is there and understanding and respect for varied communication styles and spaces that don't force social performance?
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Have you built in movement-friendly design with access to calming areas and stim-friendly features?
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Do you have trained teams and inclusive practices that make guests feel genuinely welcome?
THE PILLARS
Become a BRAIN FIRST Space
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Become a BRAIN FIRST Space ☺
When someone sees the Brain First Mark on your website, socials or window, they won't just see a sticker, or a nice gesture.
They'll see a space that they know they will feel safe in, a space that gets how different brains function and a space built to actually welcome them.
The Process
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③
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⑤
APPLY
Start the free application process and work through how the 5 pillars are considered in your space. Take your time to complete it and submit evidence for each section.
ASSESS
Once you have met the threshold score, you will be invited to submit your application, at which point a human will assess and verify your information.
AWARD
If your application is approved, you will be awarded the mark and your welcome pack will be issued, including digital and physical assets to start sharing your accreditation.
DIRECTORY
You will be added to the BRAIN FIRST Spaces directory so people searching for a space that will work for them can find you.
FEEDBACK
We provide support and feedback through our mystery visitor program, directory feedback system and data insights to help you gain a deeper understanding of your customer needs.
//THE PRICE
£350 + VAT per site
10% discount for 5+ sites
Assessment consultation
Accreditation + assets
Directory listing
