Free Event to Launch Autism-Friendly Guildford and Waverley

Published on: 8 May, 2024
Updated on: 8 May, 2024

The boroughs of Guildford and Waverley are launching a drive to become autism-friendly communities with a free event at G Live, Guildford on Monday, May 13, from 2pm to 6pm..

Autism-friendly communities aim to give autistic people a voice and make it easier for them to access shops and services by improving understanding of autism. Five such groups are being established across Surrey as part of the county council’s all-age autism strategy to improve the lives of autistic people.

The event is for autistic people and their families, interested members of the public, local businesses and people who work supporting autistic people.

Families will be able to speak to local organisations hosting information stands while businesses and other community groups can seek advice about small adjustments they can make and further training.

Activities at the event include: Introduction to autism presentations, gamers’ lounge with retro video games, fun activities from Art and Grind, autism-friendly yoga session with Sequoia Yoga, boardgame sessions with Unplug and Play.

In keeping with the day’s objective, a quiet room with dimmed lighting will be available and there will be no background music.

There is no need to book (though some activities allow pre-booking), with everyone welcome at any time on the day.

The event follows the successful launch of Autism-Friendly East Surrey. Autism-friendly communities are being set up in five areas across Surrey (Surrey Downs will be next), with organisations able to sign up to a series of commitments, earning them the right to use and display the Autism Friendly Surrey logo.

Find out more at www.surreycc.gov.uk/community/autism/understanding-autism

There are estimated to be more than 12,000 autistic people in Surrey including children and young people. During the development of Surrey’s all-age autism strategy, autistic people reported that they had difficulty using many community facilities such as shops, leisure centres and other services.

Cllr Sinead Mooney, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for adult social care, said: “Our all-age autism strategy sets out a vision for an autism-friendly Surrey where autistic people, whatever their age, can lead healthy, safe and fulfilling lives. We aim to break down barriers and inequalities that autistic people face in their daily lives which is why we are supporting communities to become as inclusive and welcoming as possible for autistic people.

“Please come along to the event or visit our website to learn more about the autism-friendly communities initiative.”

You can get more information and help around autism in Surrey on the county council’s website at www.surreycc.gov.uk/community/autism including how to get involved in your local Autism Friendly Community group and the All-Age Autism Strategy.