Aspect Visual Stories



Aspect Visual Stories
 

Visual stories serve as a strategic tool to prepare a person for and increase the predictability of a new environment or situation, by facilitating accessibility and inclusion.

Supporting individuals in navigating a new environment or situation with ease and confidence is the goal, particularly those who benefit from structured, visual information.
They are written in an easy read format and use pictures to provide greater accessibility for everyone.

Visual Stories strive to bring a familiarity to a process, reduce anxiety and stress, and build skills in communication and increased independence. Adapting the Visual Story template for your venue can substantially enhance the guest experience, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities or communication differences.

As people on the autism spectrum, in particular, can sometimes have strong visual skills yet may struggle with auditory skills, visual supports such as a Visual Story can provide an accessible reference that can be used as often as needed.

CVA has partnered with Aspect (one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers) to provide a FREE template for members to create their own Visual Story.

This document, once completed, can be used in a multitude of ways, such as uploaded to a website, sent via emails ahead of events, and printed.

Members can also create a template for different kinds of events that they might run regularly, highlighting the specific activities that might run throughout that event.

  • To access the Visual Story template created by Aspect (which includes instructions and examples), click HERE
     
  • A helpful video (25min) – How to develop a Visual Story – can be found HERE
     
  • Aspect can be contacted directly if you require additional assistance and or wish for them to review your Visual Story (to note there will be a charge from Aspect directly to you for this service). The team at Aspect can be contacted at: autismfriendly@autismspectrum.org.au

 

Visual Stories offer a powerful case study in inclusive, and thoughtful event design.

For CVA members, embedding these principles across our venues aligns with good practice in theological architecture, accessibility, and strategic planning - fostering environments where all attendees can participate confidently, safely, and without undue stress.

 

  • "Visual stories are a great way to help campers get a feel of what camp is like, and what to expect. It might not fill in all the blanks, but it gives helpful information to reduce anxiety and manage information overload. It’s a tool that will help everyone enable effective and positive communication both ahead of camp and during camp.”

              Bec, Accessibility Ministry Advisor

 

  • “The Visual Story provides a clear and accessible way to prepare individuals for new environments or situations. With simple text and supportive imagery, it promotes predictable experiences, reduces anxiety, and enhances inclusion. Its structured layout reflects a thoughtful approach to diverse needs, helping people feel informed, confident, and supported. This resource makes transitions smoother and exemplifies a strong commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and dignity in practice.”

              Mikaela, Stage One Co-ordinator

 

  • “As the parents of a special needs child we have found visual stories to be incredibly helpful in day to day life. By using images and short text in a visual story we have been able to navigate potentially distressing or new circumstances and make them more enjoyable. It’s a great way to minimise anxiety and create a more positive experience!"

            Andrew and Amy, Parents of Special Needs Child