Ambitious about Autism

Jack Petchey was a champion of youth voice and the importance of celebrating the achievements of young people, including those on the Envision Programme. Through the Jack Petchey Achievement Award, many our young people had the opportunity to share and recognise their peers' accomplishments, from their role and leadership in bringing their team together, to inspiring others through their determination to push themselves out of their comfort zone. He will be missed but he leaves behind an incredible legacy ✨

A great day at the Ambitious about Autism Central Teams’ Annual Conference in London today. Great insights on the SEND policy context we find ourselves in, real life experiences from parents of young people we support, and some fun and energising team games. It’s a privilege to work with such a great staff team.

🧠 Want to learn more about making decisions for your autistic young person? Our resource explains how to decide if someone can make their own decisions, and what to do if they can’t. Download our free resource now: https://bit.ly/3rdUEIi

We believe everyone's normal is different! Our Know Your Normal toolkit for autistic children and young people helps them identify what their unique version of ‘normal’ is, so they can explain to those who support them when they aren't feeling themselves. Download the toolkit: https://bit.ly/349YK8Q

Nearly half of parents wait 18 months or longer for their child’s autism diagnosis. If you’re in the middle of the diagnosis process and want more help and support, download our free Right from the Start toolkit. It’s packed with advice and information designed to support families at every step of their autism journey in the early years. Download the toolkit: https://bit.ly/30dtAa4

Are you autistic and aged 16-25? Would you like to know more about your diagnosis and where to find support? Understanding You, Discovering You is a six-week online course designed to equip you with resources and develop goals with other autistic young people. Find out more: https://bit.ly/3XUgP49

We're still on cloud nine after winning not one, but two awards last week for our charity partnership with Ambitious about Autism! 🏆 ESG, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative of the Year - British Insurance Awards 🏆 Charity-Business Relationship of the Year - National Fundraising Awards We are so honoured that our partnership and the incredible work of both teams has been recognised in this way, following Marsh McLennan becoming the first UK employer to achieve Ambitious about Autism’s new ‘Autism Confidence’ status back in April. A huge well done to everyone involved!

Thank you for your fundraising efforts! An amazing achievement!

Friendships are an important part of everyone’s life, but for some autistic children and young people making friends or maintaining friendships can feel challenging. Working closely with the Ambitious Youth Network, we have created online resources for autistic young people on making friends — including tips and tricks to make it a little bit easier. Check out our resources: https://bit.ly/3BbHy0F

"The co-production element of Autistic and OK really sets it apart, with 15 autistic Youth Advisors actively shaping the resources included in the programme toolkit. The Youth Advisors’ direct knowledge and experience has been integral to developing the programme." Hear from Nuala, our Participation Programme Manager, about how autistic young people co-developed the resources for our Autistic and OK toolkit. The toolkit is free for all secondary schools and is designed to help autistic pupils look after their mental health and wellbeing. Read Nuala’s blog and find out more about the toolkit: https://bit.ly/3Q72HzK