Philadelphia is gaining recognition for its efforts to being more welcoming to people with sensory sensitivities as it’s been named the first U.S. city to become certified as sensory-inclusive, writes Chris Compendio for Phillyvoice.

According to city data, an estimated 17% of Philadelphia’s population has a disability. That is more than any other major city in the nation.

This includes people with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, as people with those conditions can become overwhelmed or overstimulated visually or audibly, which can lead to extreme levels of anxiety or stress.

Amy Nieves, the executive director of the Philadelphia Office for People with Disabilities, detailed that more than 16,000 city employees – about 70% of the city’s workforce – have received training on how to help people with sensory challenges.

The city has also created mobile sensory stations and sensory bags to be used at city-sponsored events.

KultureCity, a nonprofit that works to make places more inclusive to people with sensory-processing disabilities, is responsible for awarding the city with its sensory-inclusive certification.

People with sensory-related challenges can ask for support and direction from staff, and also pick up “sensory bags” that include items like headphones and fidget toys, and take advantage of quiet sensory rooms.

Read more about Philadelphia’s designation as a sensory-inclusive city in Phillyvoice.

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