April 1, 2026 - August 10, 2026

Safe Spaces

‘Safe Spaces’ is a collaborative photography project and exhibition that documents the improvised sanctuaries neurodiverse children create.

Ortus, Denmark Hill, SE5 8SN

A child's foot is visible under a patterned duvet, located on a sofa, the child is hidden under the duvet
Rowan, 2025

‘Safe Spaces’ is a collaborative photography project and exhibition for Bethlem Gallery that documents the improvised sanctuaries neurodiverse children create. Under beds, in cupboards, or up trees, these spaces enable those hiding to escape and recover from the experiences of navigating a neurotypical world, often after a difficult school day.

Photographer Caroline Clark has worked with children, young people and their families to record their safe spaces, often putting the camera in their hands too.

What you see in this exhibition is part of an ongoing and expansive project allowing a glimpse into the everyday lives of neurodivergent young people, aiming to amass a powerful collection of ‘safe spaces’.

 

An orange ball-shaped child's seat, with a soft canopy pulled down to almost enclose the child. The seat is located in a bedroom where bookcases and toys are visible
Noah, 2025
A duvet shown, on top of a bed. There is a shape under the duvet which suggests a child may be there
Finn, 2025

Get Involved

This evolving, collaborative project celebrates the resilience of neurodiverse children and relies on the involvement of people like you!

Please do get in contact with Caroline if you’re happy for her to take photographs or if you or your child/young person would like to submit a photograph of their ‘safe space’ with a short paragraph to describe why and when they use their space.

If Caroline is able to visit and take a photograph of your child’s ‘safe space’, she would be very happy to offer a complimentary family portrait as a thank you.

To get in touch:

carolineclark.co.uk/contact
@carolineclarkphotographs on Instagram

Or phone the gallery on 02032284101.