Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct

I generally only go places that I have been or the person who I am going with has been. That way someone is familiar with the surroundings and layout. Having Cerge meant that I could get an idea of the layout and my anxiety was under control because I knew where exits were and what to expect. The Visual Story and Virtual tour were definitely two tools that I would use on a daily basis if Cerge was everywhere. 

I have an invisible disability so people don’t understand the lack of eye contact or when I become flustered or forget my manners. Sometimes I say things that aren’t quiet socially acceptable but it’s because unknown place and people make me feel quite nervous. I was able to use the app today and let the staff know at the Kingston Butter Factory these key points about me and that made me feel so much comfortable before arrival because I knew the assumptions and judgements were taken out of the equation. 

Today at Kingston Butter Factory it was a really quiet day we were some of the few people visiting. We had a great opportunity to look at the art works and explore the space. Staff member Dan showed us around all of the spaces to make me feel more comfortable. He explained what happened in each of the rooms and the other people I might see upstairs and who they were and their roles within the organisation. He had a very calm demeanour and was very helpful. 

After we left I felt very happy. Not exhausted like I normally do after leaving somewhere. This is probably due to less anxiety and the fact that is was quiet and we were able to look around at our own pace. Outings usually deplete me greatly so I can tend to avoid them, where as today I left feeling more energy! Bonus! 

Having an invisible disability makes it hard for people to understand why I can’t cope with noises and movement. Also knowing that I wouldn’t have an access issue with my NCAA (non canine assistance animal) made it so much easier. Confrontation can bring on a panic attack and knowing that they were accepting was awesome. 

So many families with children need this app even if it’s just for the Visual Stories to help them know what to expect. The difference for families would be incredible. 

I would love to see Cérge at more CAFE’s, museums and art galleries in Brisbane City and near me. I’d probably be able to enjoy a full day out if it was like this!

I have Hypermobility Elhers Danlos Syndrome and postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. Often when I go to places I can get over stimulated easily. The lights can be bright, the music can be loud and I can get hit with a million questions which can all add up for me. 

I saw that Kingston Butter Factory recently adopted Cérge and after looking at the Visual Story & Sensory Guide I decided to visit. It looked interesting. I wouldn’t usually go to a place like this because of the risk of over stimulation but as I was able to see everything beforehand I could prepare myself. 

I have a carer and in the past I have had extremely traumatic events happen where I have been separated from my carer. This is something that makes me very anxious about trying new places. I knew the Kingston Butter Factory have the Cérge app so I could tell them before I arrived not to separate myself and my carer and asked if they could reduce the stimulation a little, light and music down a bit. 

When I showed up I felt super nervous as not a fan of going to new places and obvious past events still make me hesitant. 

However, it was way less stressful as the app explained were to go and the person met me out-front. I also felt because they were willing to meet me out the front and used Cérge that I would be treated nicely and wouldn’t feel judged or like a bother. It was a really nice feeling.

The staff member offered me noise cancelling headphones and gave me a heads up that a mommy toddler group was there but were leaving soon. 

Wow! It’s this kind of care and forward thinking that literally changes not only my day but future days for me. Thank you so much!

They had turned off music and dimmed the lights when I arrived, it helped relieve a lot of anxiety. I felt so welcome and so much calmer than how I usually feel going somewhere. 

I learnt new things in a calm environment that didn't cause me stress and didn't cause me to be exhausted when I left. 

This Is Amazing!

I can’t explain to you how big this is for me, I love learning and I love new experiences I just have so many things to plan and prepare and make ok before those events can take place, and today. Cérge took my mental load and that is life changing. 

I felt happy and calm leaving and had no anxiety afterwards, will definitely go again.

I want to go to ALL the places that have Cérge! I’m ready to fill my days with learning and living ??????