Bournemouth tattoo parlour offers autism friendly sessions

Jynx Tattoo Parlour in Lansdowne Crescent has begun to hold autism-friendly tattoo appointments to help tackle the barriers the industry poses to those on the spectrum. 

Thought up by Jynx owner, Freddy Potter, and tattoo artist, Stephanie Pantera, it was inspired by Steph's daughter who is autistic.

Freddy said: "I've known Steph for quite some time now and I had met her daughter before and it was a case of us thinking 'why are we not doing anything to assist those with autism?'.

"We sat down and came up with a structure in regards to appointments and longer consultations, little gadgets and headphones that will assist and help them while getting a tattoo."

Led by Steph, those with autism will be given a 45-minute consultation followed by direct contact with her on the day of the tattoo to make sure they are still comfortable with coming in. 

Alongside this, Steph said she will accommodate as many needs as she possibly can with tattoos done in a quiet studio downstairs and will even wear a headtorch should the customer want the lights off.

Steph said: "My daughter is 15 and I've seen her levels of high anxiety even just coming into a new place.

"There's so many different barriers for people who are on the spectrum so I think it's really important we meet different people and be able to accommodate them.

"Let's face it, some tattoo studios, even for normal people, can be quite loud and some people can be sort of standoffish. We want it to be different to that."

Although important, Freddy said he was aware the service would take a lot of time which could be given to other customers but said he believes some things are more important than money. 

Formerly working in police custody, he said the matter is close to his heart.

Freddy said: "There's more to life than just money.

"It's more important to cater for people who suffer from these things and for me to be included. They should be entitled to get tattoos as well."