Halloween is a celebration observed in many countries on the 31 st of October, the eve of the Christian feast of All Saints Day.

It starts the observance of All Hallowtide. This is the time in the Liturgical year dedicated to remembering the dead, including Saints (Hallows), Martyrs, and the all faithful departed.

It is nice to have fun carving pumpkins, dressing up, and going trick or treating. Halloween is not to be confused with a celebration on the 5th of November called Guy Fawkes Night. Although Halloween is fun to celebrate, we also need to remember to make our celebrations as safe as possible. Perhaps even consider holding an event that is autism and learning disability friendly.

Try decorating with bunting and paper lanterns rather than balloons, play music but at a lower level, and play lots of fun games. It’s okay to look silly at Halloween.

If you live in a community, perhaps consider a community event which you can invite those who are isolated in the community too. There are many vulnerable people who find this time of year a fearful one.

That is not to say we shouldn’t celebrate; we just need to be mindful of those around us. If you know of a vulnerable person let them know you are there for them, check in on them or let them know they can call on you. The smallest reasonable adjustment, can make the biggest difference for a vulnerable person whether young or old.

By Nicola Martin