The Alt Empordà region is positioning itself as a benchmark in inclusion for people with autism with the launch of EmporTEA. This initiative, driven by the Associació TEA Alt Empordà and the agency Reale Figueres, aims to create a network of commercial establishments, services, and public spaces that are more accessible and understandable for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other sensory needs.
The project will be officially presented next September, with the participation of the first involved municipalities, such as Figueres and l'Escala. From then on, citizens will be able to know, before entering an establishment, key information thanks to the new EmporTEA pictograms. These symbols will indicate aspects such as the presence of waiting times, available restrooms, children's areas, or if the staff is sensitized to provide adapted attention.
Pictograms are not only a useful tool for autistic individuals but also help make spaces clearer and more understandable for everyone. The main objective of EmporTEA is to facilitate access and coexistence through advance information and concrete actions, grouped into four axes: inform, anticipate, include, and network. The entity invites businesses and administrations in the region to join for free.
Businesses interested in joining the initiative can register through a form provided by the organization. EmporTEA is conceived as a local initiative to make Alt Empordà a more accessible and inclusive region. The transformation of local businesses, which will include staff training, reduction of waiting times, and the creation of calm spaces, is complemented by other projects from the entity that seek to enhance the autonomy of young people and children.
