I often find going to public events like talks or training sessions stressful but it was different at a seminar I attended this afternoon at Hempsons and I felt completely relaxed. This was because I knew what to expect and was not worrying about how my tics would be accommodated. When I arrived, the organisers greeted me warmly, introduced me to the speakers and showed me to the place they’d reserved for me at the end of a row.

This was exactly what I needed.

The difference with this event was that the organisers had asked me what I needed and provided detailed information on the layout of the venue and the running order of the presentations. Lots of organisations do ask about additional needs, but the quality and thought that had gone into preparing and supporting me at this event was a model of good practice.