Stadium event raises autism awareness
An event aiming to raise awareness of autism took place at Arbour Park stadium in Slough last week.
Marking World Autism Awareness Day, more than 70 attendees, including 12 organisations dedicated to autism, gathered at the stadium for an Autism Awareness Afternoon on Tuesday, April 2.
Organisations including Art Beyond Belief, Empower Slough, Autism Berkshire, and Gems4health were represented at the event and five speakers led discussions encouraging people to reflect on what autism truly means.
During the afternoon, carers enjoyed a tea party, a 10-minute taster massage and a bespoke ‘thank you’ cupcake.
An art therapy session saw carers use their handprints and write messages about challenges they face on a love heart.
The activity resulted in a colourful display showcasing how carers are not alone and all have different stories to tell.
Solutions 4 Health, a company combating health inequalities was also present and provided carers with advice and information on diet
and nutrition.
The team also conducted tests, including checking blood pressure.
A physiotherapist also demonstrated simple seated exercises.
Giuseppe Di Martino, learning disability and autism commissioner, at Slough Borough Council (SBC), said: “We are so pleased that the Autism Awareness Afternoon was such a success.
“There will be several initiatives going forward focused on promoting awareness about neurodivergence and focused on specific aspects (like health, work, active living, prevention, communication, sensory adaptations) and people can find out about these by
keeping an eye on the dedicated autism and learning disability pages www.slough .gov.uk/social-care or by getting in touch via beinvolved @slough.gov.uk.”
He added: “We seek engagement for all we do and welcome residents to contribute their ideas on what they’d like to see happening about autism and learning disability.
“Also, we have the partnership boards which are membership based but usually open to the public to attend upon booking.
“These are the Learning Disability Partnership
Board and the Autism Steering Group, both in
May. To find out more please email: beinvolved @slough.gov.uk.”