Titanic Belfast launches new initiatives to support a more inclusive visitor experience

Helping to launch the new initiatives alongside Titanic Belfast’s Head of Operations, Paula Bradley is Niamh Givens.

Titanic Belfast has unveiled a range of new accessibility initiatives aimed at ensuring every visitor can enjoy the world-renowned attraction in a comfortable, welcoming and inclusive environment.

The new measures include the introduction of Sensory Backpacks and Quiet Sessions, further strengthening the attraction’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion for visitors with additional needs.

The initiatives build on significant investment made by Titanic Belfast in recent years to improve inclusive infrastructure and visitor services. These have included the installation of Changing Places facilities, multimedia guides featuring British Sign Language (BSL), and close collaboration with a number of charities and organisations, including Mencap and Orchardville.

Supporting neurodiverse visitors

The newly launched Sensory Backpacks are available to borrow free of charge and are designed to support neurodiverse guests and others who may benefit from additional sensory resources during their visit.

While the backpacks have been created primarily for children aged five to 12, they are available to support visitors of any age who require them. Each backpack has been thoughtfully themed around animals associated with Titanic and includes a range of practical and engaging tools.

Items contained within the backpacks include ear defenders, sunglasses for brighter areas, emotions and senses cards, a variety of fidget and sensory toys, drawing materials, and smelling cubes featuring aromas linked to Titanic.

A visual contents list and a sensory trail are also included to help visitors navigate the experience more comfortably and independently.

Calm, sensory-friendly visits

Alongside the backpacks, Titanic Belfast has also launched Quiet Sessions to offer a calmer and more sensory-friendly way to explore the galleries.

These sessions are designed for visitors who prefer reduced noise levels, softer lighting and a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing them to discover the Titanic Experience at their own pace.

Afternoon Quiet Sessions will take place on Monday 26 January and Monday 23 February, with a morning session scheduled for Sunday 22 February.

Commitment to inclusion

Paula Bradley, Head of Operations at Titanic Belfast, said the initiatives reflect a long-term commitment to making the attraction accessible to all.

She said:

“We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy a visit to Titanic Belfast in a way that feels comfortable, welcoming and accessible to them.

“The introduction of new Sensory Backpack and Quiet Sessions reflect our long-term commitment to accessibility and inclusion. With the support of teams from across the business as well as external stakeholders, we have been working to bring these new initiatives to fruition.

“As a leading visitor attraction, it’s important to us that people with additional needs are given the same opportunities as everyone else to allow them to enjoy their visit to Titanic Belfast.”

Visitors can find full accessibility information or book a Quiet Session by visiting www.titanicbelfast.com.