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The neurodivergent DJ running inclusive parties

Clara Bullock
BBC News, Bristol
Stef Mo Byron Vincent is on a stage wearing a dark hoodie. He has headphones on.Stef Mo
Byron Vincent is autistic and has started an inclusive club night

A neurodivergent DJ has founded an event where autistic people can feel safe and "have a dance".

Disco Neurotico is a club night series founded by autistic DJ Byron Vincent and, after a successful night at the Bristol Beacon, fundraising is under way for a further night in the city.

The event is a "safe space" for anyone who feels anxious about "mainstream" club events, Mr Vincent said.

"I've put thought into every element. It's a welcoming and friendly space, a safe space for people who don't feel safe but still want to dance and socialise," Mr Vincent added.

Stef Mo Two people are on a dance floor wearing headphones. One of them is holding a fan and they are both smiling. There are several other people in the background.Stef Mo
The main dance area at the event is a silent disco

"I started the event for selfish reasons," Mr Vincent said. "I'm neurodivergent myself, I'm autistic and have anxiety.

"I struggle with crowds and moving around the world is difficult."

Mr Vincent used to run raves and said he enjoyed them but he always needed "a job to focus on".

He added: "Eventually, moving in those environments became too much so I became a writer.

"Then, lockdown happened and I was invited to do online DJ sets. I really enjoyed them."

After lockdown, Mr Vincent felt he wanted to recreate that environment.

"I remembered I hated events so I decided to create an event - selfishly - to my own needs," he said.

"I thought it was just me and nobody would come - but people said they felt the same way."

Woo Photography Two people are wearing headphones and playing a video game on a screen in front of them. They are in a large venue and it is fairly dark.Woo Photography
The event has spaces for gaming and crafting as well as a recovery room

He said the event was a "broad church", welcoming autistic people and people with anxiety but also "anyone who doesn't feel comfortable in club environments".

Organisers offer people a tour of the venue ahead of the event and introduce their staff.

There are also multiple spaces at the events, including gaming areas, crafting tables and a recovery room.

"The main dance floor is a silent disco with two DJs," said Mr Vincent. "You get a choice of genre and ambient brown noise on the third channel.

"We try to make sure everyone is held.

"It's a unique space unlike anywhere else."

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