First Place AZ’s Post

It’s World Autism Awareness Day! A time to celebrate the unique strengths and talents of those on the spectrum and recognize the importance of fostering inclusion and supporting neurodiversity. Here are three ways we can all help to create a more inclusive world: 🚩Education: Take the time to learn about autism spectrum disorder – increasing knowledge helps us all to become better allies and advocates. 🚩Foster Acceptance: Create a culture of acceptance and understanding in your workplace and community by encouraging judgement free open dialogue and challenging stereotypes and the stigmas associated with them. 🚩Support Organizations: Consider supporting organizations that provide resources, advocacy, and support for individuals with autism and their families. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or raising awareness, every contribution makes a difference. #AutismAwarenessDay #InclusionMatters

Advocating for Autistic Rights Together 🤝 Today, I reflect on the pressing issue of rights for autistic individuals. 'Ambitious about Autism' stands as a vanguard, offering essential support and creating tailored educational opportunities to help autistic children and youth thrive. Their commitment extends beyond classrooms and into the 'Ambitious Youth Network,' fostering community and connections online. Allyship is key, whether you're supporting as staff, finding a community, or contributing through donations and volunteering. Highlighting the 'Me, My Autism and I' campaign, they also elevate stories of autistic women and girls. 'Ambitious about Autism' is more than a charity; it's a dedicated force for advocating rights and enabling brighter futures. #AutismAwareness #AutismAdvocacy #InclusiveEducation

This week is World Autism Acceptance Week, something very close to my heart. In the UK there is a lot of talk about discrimination in the work place. 70% of autistic people in the UK are unemployed. 70%….. Many of the amazing people who live with autism are super talented, disciplined and focused. They struggle to portray this at interview due to their challenges with pressurised social situations. Autistic people thrive off routine. Meeting someone new for the first time is the polar opposite of routine. Too often employers base decisions on who to employ on personality and who they gel best with. Too often autistic people miss out on a job they would be great at because of this element of discrimination which is far too unspoken. When they do find work their reluctance to engage in social bravado will often stunt their progress. At University I got told a firm handshake, eye contact and a smile were sure fire ways to land that dream job. These are relatively straightforward easy wins for most people, but can be incredibly difficult for those with neurodiverse conditions. Employers must base decisions on ability and remember that it isn’t always the confident, gregarious, outgoing candidates that you need. Autistic people should be proud of their talent and be open about their condition and employers should utilise strategies to help autistic people thrive at interview. Far greater acceptance, understanding and awareness is required across all sectors. #nationalautisticsociety #autismacceptanceweek #neurodivergence

As Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month concludes, we issue a call to action: Let's embrace autism acceptance not just in April but year-round. Our commitment to understanding, supporting, and advocating for individuals with autism should permeate every day. - Educate Yourself and Others: Continue to learn about autism and share your knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues. Support Autism Organizations: Whether through volunteering, donations, or participation in events, your support makes a difference. - Promote Inclusivity: Advocate for inclusive practices in schools, workplaces, and communities to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Together, We Make a Difference Every effort to promote acceptance and support the autism community contributes to a more inclusive and compassionate world. Let's continue to stand together in support of individuals with autism and their families. Join Us: How will you contribute to autism acceptance and support throughout the year? #YearRoundAcceptance #AutismSupport #TakeAction

🧩 Let's Celebrate National Autism Acceptance Week! 🧩 Did you know that autistic people face discrimination and barriers in various aspects of life? From healthcare to education to employment, they must access tailored support and opportunities to thrive. This National Autism Acceptance Week, let's come together to raise awareness and support autistic individuals, their families, and carers. Your contribution can make a significant difference: 💙 £15 could provide a safe virtual space for an autistic person through The National Autistic Society online community. 💙 £500 could ensure crucial diagnosis advice and guidance is available for the 150,000 people waiting for an autism assessment. 💙 £1,000 could help an autistic person find meaningful work and keep it through our employment support. Together, let's create a more inclusive and supportive society for autistic individuals. Every donation counts! #AutismAcceptance #SupportAutism #NationalAutismAcceptanceWeek #InclusionMatters #safeguarding #socialwork #socialcare

What if behaviour isn’t a challenge, but a message? 💬 At Aurora Nexus, we understand that all behaviour is communication. For individuals with learning disabilities or autism, actions often speak louder than words, especially when traditional ways of communicating don’t feel accessible. What might seem like “challenging behaviour” is often someone expressing a need, a feeling, or a frustration they can’t put into words. Instead of focusing on “managing” behaviour, we focus on understanding it. Through Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), we work to uncover what someone is truly trying to say, creating environments where they feel safe, heard, and supported to thrive 🌱 🧡 Help us continue empowering individuals through PBS. Donate today via our website and make a difference. #positivebehavioursupport #pbsapproach #challengingbehaviour #communicationmatters #learningdisabilities #autismsupport #personcentredcare #auroranexus #inclusivecommunities #southlondoncharity #charitywork

Introducing the Hampshire All Age Autism Strategy This strategy is about breaking down barriers and tackling the inequalities that autistic individuals of all ages face. It's about ensuring that every autistic person feels seen, valued, and supported throughout Hampshire*. Why is this strategy so important? Because it's a step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone. By improving understanding and acceptance of autism, supporting autistic individuals in education and employment, addressing health and care inequalities, and enhancing community support, we're working towards a future where every person, regardless of their neurodiversity, can thrive. At the heart of this strategy are six key priority areas, carefully developed through collaboration with professionals, Hampshire Autism Voice, local charities, experts-by-experience, parents, carers, and service users. Together, we're driving positive change and making Hampshire a better place for all its residents. https://lnkd.in/ejvAimbn #HAPB #autismacceptance *Hampshire refers to the geographical area covered by Hampshire County Council.

Today, on World Autism Awareness Day, let's acknowledge the strengths of individuals with Autism. At Cobra Network, we're committed to cultivating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and supported. This year, we have partnered with Support Dogs, an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with various medical conditions by training and providing support dogs to children and adults in need, this includes Autism assistance dogs. As part of our commitment, we aim to raise £20,000 to fully train a Support Dog right up to being matched with an individual in need. Learn more about how Support Dogs are making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families, or download the application form if you feel a Support Dog could help you or a loved one by clicking the following link: https://lnkd.in/eCbbZ5Bs If you would like to donate towards the Cobra Network Support Dog fund, please click the Just Giving link: https://lnkd.in/exPDAvqq Let's spread awareness, acceptance, and understanding today and every day. Together, we can build a more inclusive world for everyone. #WorldAutismAwarenessDay #SupportDogs #Inclusion #Acceptance

Thanks for sharing this David Onofrio! For anyone who is interested in participating or sponsoring, please watch the full video to learn more!

take a read