Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh has been recognised for its commitment to accessibility and inclusion after being awarded the Autism NI Impact Award.
The prestigious award highlights organisations that have taken meaningful steps to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for autistic individuals and their families. Staff at Navan Centre and Fort undertook specialist training to better understand autism and implement practical changes, helping to reduce barriers and improve accessibility for visitors. This includes adapting communication approaches and enhancing the overall visitor journey.
As one of Northern Ireland’s most significant heritage sites, Navan Centre and Fort is dedicated to ensuring that everyone can enjoy and engage with its rich history and cultural offering. Adaptations the Navan Centre has made include a dedicated sensory room, quiet shows for significant events such as their Little Spooks Halloween shows and relaxed educational visits on request.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Mary O’Dowd said:
“This award is a fantastic achievement for Navan Fort and Centre and reflects the team’s commitment to ensuring that our heritage spaces are welcoming and accessible to all. It is vital that everyone, regardless of their needs, has the opportunity to experience and enjoy our cultural sites. This recognition demonstrates our continued focus on inclusion and delivering high-quality visitor experiences across the borough.”
Autism NI’s Director of Development, Christine Kearney said:
“We are delighted that Navan Centre has achieved the Impact Award. Through their training and action plan, the organisation has implemented a range of practical and meaningful changes to promote accessibility. By achieving the Impact Award, the organisation has shown a clear commitment to building an inclusive culture for their employees.”
Navan Fort continues to welcome visitors offering an immersive experience into Ireland’s ancient past through guided tours, interpretive exhibitions and interactive storytelling. Alongside its historical and mythological significance, the site also hosts a vibrant summer programme of events, including family-friendly activities, re-enactments, workshops and cultural experiences designed to bring the stories of Emain Macha to life. Highlights include the popular Wickerman Gathering on 1 August, Tales & Traditions enhanced living history tours with different themes each day, and guided walking tours to Navan Fort.
