Think of it as a step-by-step picture guide: how to get there, what the space looks like, what will happen, and any rules or routines in place.
What is a Visual Story?
A visual story is an access tool that uses simple images and words to guide people through what they can expect at an event, exhibition, or venue.
Visual stories are particularly helpful for people who:
Live with autism, ADHD, or other neurodivergence
Experience anxiety or need to mentally prepare before an event
Have intellectual disabilities or process information better through images
Use English as a second language and benefit from clear, visual cues
Have low energy or cognitive fatigue and need simplified, predictable info
And so many more
Remove an invisible barrier that might otherwise stop someone attending
Why is it Important?
A visual story reduces uncertainty.
It gives people confidence before they arrive, helps them plan their day, and prevents overwhelm at the event.
For members of the the SICK AF Collective and our audiences – which includes people with neurological conditions, energy limitations, and sensory sensitivities – a visual story is another way of saying: you are welcome here, we’ve thought about your needs, and we want you to feel safe and included.
By providing one, you help people decide if the environment is suitable for them; and you make your event predictable, calmer, and more inviting.
What to Include in a Visual Story
You can create a simple PDF, webpage, or gallery of images with short captions. Keep text plain and visual content accurate.
Core elements:
Getting there
photos or maps of the building exterior, entrances, transport options, parking
Arrival
what happens at check-in or ticket desk; photo of staff/volunteers; bag checks if any
Inside the venue
wide shot of rooms, signage, where to find toilets, quiet space, food/drink
What will happen
order of activities (e.g. speeches, music, exhibition viewing) in plain steps
Accessibility features
lifts, ramps, accessible toilets, hearing loops, Auslan, clean-air areas
Rules & expectations
if masking required, if photos are allowed, if doors will close at certain times
Sensory notes
lighting levels, lighting types, sound/music, background noise, crowd size, potential smells (e.g. food, paint, incense)
Support options
who to ask for help, how staff/volunteers can be identified
Leaving
where exits are, re-entry options, how long the event runs
Tips:
Use clear photos of the actual spaces (not stock photos)
Pair each photo with one or two sentences max
Offer the visual story in downloadable PDF and webpage format
Keep layout simple: large images, bold captions, plain background
Help people decide if the environment is suitable for them