What is it like living with Autism?

4pm - 5.30pm, Thursday 16th February 2023

FREE. OPEN TO EVERYONE. Online - see below for booking details.

We are very excited to welcome a Makaton User with autism who is going to explain their experience of living with autism and what it feels like for them.

“The world can be a confusing place, full of sounds, colours, and different textures that can be overwhelming. This can impact on communication, but also daily living tasks. Something as simple as going round a supermarket can become a challenge. The lights that flicker, the smell of the doughnuts that many people like, cause me pain. And the social side of life, reading facial expressions, understanding phrases and sayings, can be scary (and comical)! But I have many strengths too, I see things that others don’t, small details in things. This means I am good at certain jobs.

"Why do I and others stim? What’s the purpose? Are other questions I am asked. I’m going to both tell and hopefully show you why, and the purpose it serves for me. People often ask me 'what is it like to have autism?', and it is different for everyone: it is a spectrum, but I am going to share my experiences with you, and hopefully help you understand what it is like for me with some interactive games, I hope you can join me”