Links

This page lists some links you may find useful.  Usual disclaimers apply – I can’t be held responsible for the content of links posted here, but please do contact me if you experience any problems with any of the links – thanks.

Nationally

• The National Autistic Society hold a wealth of information about autism and the whole spectrum of related conditions; advice and sources of support and training.
• The Autism Education Trust is dedicated to coordinating, supporting and promoting effective education practice and raising awareness of the importance of appropriate educational provision for autistic children and young people.
• The Autism Directory is registered charity providing details of the autism help and support across the UK in one place.
• Auticon  is an award-winning IT consulting business which prides itself in creating autism-friendly work environments – all their consultants are autistic.
• Specialisterne is part of the rapidly growing global “Specialist People network” with the concept and vision of enabling one million jobs for autistic people.
• The curly hair project is a great resource, written by Alis Rowe, a young woman in the UK who has a diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome.
• PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is an atypical autistic spectrum condition that requires a completely different approach to ‘the usual stuff’.  You can find an awareness booklet aimed at professionals here along with many other resources.
• Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism at Sheffield Hallam University, believes that we need to see autism as a different cognitive state rather than a deficit.  Luke blogs about ‘Perspectives on Autism’ here.
• Protective Behaviours, a practical approach to personal safety, is a process that encourages self-empowerment, raised self-esteem and the avoidance of being victimised, so is very relevant to autistic people.  The Protective Behaviours Training Partnership was formed in 2012 to promote PBs and PB training for all.
• SEND IASS, previously known as Parent Partnership Services (PPS), should be offered all in local authorities across the UK to support families in accessing appropriate education.
• The National Network of Parent Carer Forums provides access to local parent carer groups in your area and exists to develop cohesive good practice, effective participation and a solution focused approach at all levels, locally, regionally and nationally.

Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire & surrounding counties

• In Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and the surrounding counties there are some great charitable organisations offering training, conferences, activities, services and other support for families and professionals.  These include Action for Asperger’s,  Autism Bedfordshire, Middleton Cheney SENT,  Autism West Midlands  and Autism East Midlands.