Celebrating World Autism Acceptance Month
April is World Autism Acceptance Month, a time to celebrate autistic people and advocate for greater understanding, inclusion, and support. At Healthwatch Southwark, we are committed to ensuring that the voices of autistic people are heard, particularly when accessing healthcare services.
Our recent ‘Empowering Voices’ report 2024 explored the challenges faced by autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities when seeking healthcare. The report highlights key barriers such as communication difficulties, lack of reasonable adjustments, and treatment thresholds that make it difficult for people to access the care they need. It also makes recommendations to help healthcare providers better meet the needs of autistic people.
If you or someone you know might need autism support, here are some valuable local resources:
- Southwark’s Local Offer- shows what’s available in the borough for people aged 0-25 who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. It includes up-to-date information on opportunities and services.
- Autism Support Team for Children and Young People– A specialist service offering support for young autistic people and their families.
- Sunflower Lanyards at Guy’s & St. Thomas’– Patients can request a sunflower lanyard to indicate a hidden disability, helping staff understand they may need additional assistance.
- Resources for Autism– A charity providing practical support for autistic children and adults, and their families and carers.
- London Autism Group Charity- A charity providing services to autistic people, family carers, professionals and organisations. Services include activity days, befriending, mental health support.
- Autism Voice– A voluntary and community sector group supporting autistic individuals from global majority backgrounds, providing culturally appropriate services including crafts and activity days.
- StephTogether CIC- A voluntary and community sector group providing support to autistic children and their families.
By raising awareness and improving services, we can make Southwark a more inclusive place for autistic people.
Find out more about World Autism Acceptance Month here.
