NuroCove: A Sensory Sanctuary for Wellbeing

I know firsthand what it’s like to navigate a world that isn’t built for neurodivergence. As an autistic/ADHD person with dyslexia and sensory sensitivities, I have had no choice but to resign from employment simply because environments were inaccessible. However, the need for change is far greater than any barriers that I have faced personally. 

Neurodivergent individuals face overwhelming challenges—not just sensory challenges, but also widespread misunderstanding, employment struggles, and a mental health crisis that cannot be ignored. Suicide rates in neurodivergent populations are tragically high, and that’s unacceptable.

I founded Nurologik because I want to help create a world where neurodivergent people don’t just survive—we thrive. I want my children, grandchildren, and every neurodivergent person to have the chance to experience a world that truly values and supports them.

That is why I created NuroCove—a sensory-friendly retreat designed to provide relief, regulation, and rest in often overwhelming environments. However, this isn’t just about offering temporary solutions at events. My vision is for spaces like NuroCove to become the norm, not an afterthought in event planning, workplaces, and public spaces.

NuroCove is far more than a simple ‘quiet space’. In fact, it is often far from quiet. It is a thoughtfully designed, multi-sensory, low-stimulation environment tailored to neurodivergent needs. Every element has been chosen with intention.

Informed by neuro-affirming practices, each NuroCove has a bespoke design and can include:

• A calming space for decompression, providing several zones to accommodate differing needs.
• A choice of comfortable seating and soft furnishings.
• A NuroCave: a blackout tent providing the option to lie down in privacy. 
• Sensory support tools, such as ear defenders, weighted blankets, and fidget items.
• Calming activities, such as colouring books, puzzles, chess or crafts.

However, a well-designed space alone is not enough.

A most critical element of NuroCove is the presence of Mental Health First Aiders with in-depth neurodivergence knowledge. These trained professionals understand sensory overload and the various stress reactions that neurodivergent individuals might experience, and provide empathetic, trauma informed support when it is needed most.

When someone visits NuroCove, they are entering a neuro-affirming space of safety, understanding, and support designed with their needs in mind.

As well as creating NuroCove spaces, I am a freelance EventWell team member. Last year, I hosted an EventWell SensoryCalm space at a festival. It is an experience I will never forget. On one day, we welcomed 70+ neurodivergent visitors. Many arrived looking ‘broken’, overwhelmed, and exhausted. It was heartbreaking to witness.

Nevertheless, on exiting the SensoryCalm space, they were calm, smiling, and very grateful. Many explained that without this support, they would have had to leave the event they had been anticipating for months.

This experience reinforced what I already knew: sensory-friendly spaces are not optional—they are essential. Looking back at this event still makes my heart glow. It was exhausting, but extremely rewarding.

As a collaborative partner with EventWell, I am dedicated to bringing this high standard of neuro-affirming support to Wales. I am working to ensure that Welsh event organisers recognise the importance of these spaces and make them a permanent feature in their planning.

Inclusive Journalism Cymru are hosting a Networking, AGM & Showcase event on Saturday 15th March 2025 from 2:00pm – 7:30pm, at The Sustainable Studio, Cardiff. 

Nurologik’s NuroCove will be at the event, providing:

• A calming space for decompression and sensory relief.
• Noise-reducing tools and sensory supports.
• On-site trained professionals who truly understand neurodivergence.
• NurOK Self-Care Kits for all attendees—thoughtfully designed to support sensory and emotional well-being.

We want every visitor to experience NuroCove—not just as a space, but as a glimpse into what an inclusive world should look like.

My vision extends beyond pop-up spaces at events. I envisage sensory-friendly environments being standard features in work and public spaces, and compulsory in residential and commercial building and urban planning design. I want every individual, regardless of their neuro-type, to feel valued, supported, and included.  

Join us at The Sustainable Studio. Experience NuroCove firsthand. I look forward to seeing you there!