Wolverhampton Autism Board

Autism affects how people perceive, communicate and interact with others, although it is important to recognise that there are differing opinions on this and not all autistic people see themselves as disabled.

With an estimated 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK – approximately 1% of the population – most people probably know someone who is autistic. In addition, there are an estimated 3 million family members and carers of autistic people in the UK (National Autistic Society). Studies by the University of Central England published in 2023 found that the true number of autistic people in England may be more than double this number.

Some autistic people may need minimal or no support, while others may require significant assistance in their daily lives, such as 24-hour care in a residential setting. Autistic individuals may seek support in various areas, such as forming friendships, managing school or work, and participating in the community.

The strategy also embraces neurodiversity, the concept that there are many different ways for brains to work and interpret information. The exact percentage of neurodivergent individuals in the UK isn't universally defined, but estimates indicate a significant portion of the population is neurodivergent, meaning they may be autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, dyspraxia, or have other neurological differences.

Buses, trains and trams

Using public transport can be an affordable and enjoyable way to travel, but it can also pose a range of challenges. The National Autistic Society provides advice about what to expect and how to prepare, with tips from autistic people here: Travelling by train or bus.

Transport for West Midlands can send you things to help you get around the West Midlands. They are called accessibility products and they are free of charge. To see what is available and request an accessibility product visit: Get help if you have a disability or accessibility need.

You may be able to get free travel on bus, train and tram with a disabled person's pass.

Grand Theatre (Accessible, relaxed performances) - For all age groups. Offers relaxed performances to enable everyone to enjoy the magic of live theatre. Performances are specifically adapted to benefit those on the autism spectrum, younger children or those with learning difficulties or additional needs. They make a range of adaptations to the performance and auditorium such as reducing lights, lowering volume, relaxing the auditorium rules, live streaming in sensory room, quiet spaces, large changing room and more.

Before visiting, families can watch an orientation video on the website and, when possible, the theatre can send an information pack via email, which will include character introductions and a visual story.

Address: Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE
Email: access@grandtheatre.co.uk

Wolverhampton Art Gallery - is free to visit, you can explore art, changing exhibitions and permanent galleries featuring work by English landscape and portrait genius Gainsborough. Including accessible level access entrances, lift access to all floors, disabled toilets, and a guide dog friendly environment.

To find out more you can view visual story guide or take the virtual tour to help you with your visit to the Art Gallery.

Address: Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DU

Cineworld - host a sensory friendly screening designed to be an inclusive and welcoming environment for people with sensory sensitivities and their loved ones.

There is also audio described screenings for blind and visually impaired cinema goers. For selected films, a narration track is available which can be accessed through special headphones only.

They hope these screenings can act as a transition into regular cinema screenings for some of their guests, while making the cinema more inclusive and accessible for everyone who feels they will benefit from the environment.

Sensory friendly adjustments include:

• sound and lights on low
• no trailers
• freedom to move around
• take your own food and drink
• free entry for carers with a valid CEA Card

Visit Cineworld - frequently asked questions for more information about accessible Cineworld sites and screenings.

Address: Bentley Bridge Park, Wednesfield Way, Wolverhampton, WV11 1TZ

Autism Hour Wolves Molineux Megastore - The club will take 60 minutes each week to provide autistic people with a break from the usual overload of information and make the Megastore more welcoming. Megastore staff have also been trained so they can provide the best service and support possible to customers with autism.

When: Every Sunday between 3pm and 4pm, a calmer environment at the shop will be created, including reduced lighting and music.
Address: Molineux Megastore, Waterloo Road, Wolverhampton WV1 4QU

Wolverhampton Autism Board brings together autistic people and their families, commissioners, clinicians, service providers, service managers and other stakeholders to develop, monitor and review Wolverhampton’s progress on delivering the six priority themes of the National Strategy for autistic children, young people, and adults 2021-2026.

Since 2018, the Autism Board has been co-chaired by Alex Tranter-Revan and Natalie Robinson, who bring invaluable expertise as individuals with lived experience. They guide and support partnership organisations, ensuring that neurodivergent policies are actively adopted in Wolverhampton. Alex and Natalie share a clear vision for the city: 'We want Wolverhampton to be a place where autistic people feel safe, understood, and supported, have the same opportunities as anyone else, can live the life they choose, receive personalised support when they need it, enjoy meaningful activities, and, most importantly, play an active part in their community.'

The Wolverhampton Autism Board provides an opportunity to challenge and influence changes in the city that will benefit autistic children, young people and adults or other hidden disabilities and the wider population.

The responsibilities of the Autism Board include:

• Advising and influencing local commissioning
• Receiving information about the effectiveness of local support services
• Supporting local agencies to access relevant information to inform service planning and promote an inclusive city
• Receiving assurance from relevant organisations that best-practice guidance and research evidence is informing development of services
• Ensuring that there a range of opportunities for feedback from autistic children, young people, adults, and their families. The views and perspective of autistic children, young people, adults, and their families are heard and used to inform commissioning and development of local services
• Promoting improved awareness and understanding of autism across the city
• Delivering the six priorities identified in the National Strategy for autistic children, young people, and adults 2021-2026 in Wolverhampton

Terminology and language

The Autism Board aims adopt and promote language that reflects respect, inclusivity, and sensitivity when discussing autism, recognising the diversity of individual preferences within the autism community.

Guiding Principles:

1. Respect Individual Preferences
   The Autism Partnership Board will prioritise the preferences of autistic individuals regarding how autism is discussed. When possible, we will ask individuals for their preferred terminology, including whether they prefer "autistic person" (identity-first language) or "person with autism" (person-first language). This approach respects personal identity and acknowledges that preferences vary widely within the community.

   The Board acknowledges that both identity-first and person-first language have strong support within the community. In general, the Board will use identity-first language as a standard in our communications, reflecting the preference of many self-advocates and autism rights organisations. However, where person-first language is preferred by individuals or organisations, we will respect and use that preference.

2. Use Positive and Neutral Language
   We commit to using positive, neutral language to avoid unintentional stigmatisation. Terms such as "suffering from autism" or "afflicted by autism" will be avoided. Instead, we will use straightforward terms like “is autistic” or “has autism.” This approach helps to reduce stigma and maintains focus on respect and inclusivity.
    
3. Highlight Strengths as well as Challenges
   Our language will reflect a balanced view that recognises both strengths and challenges associated with autism. Descriptions should celebrate unique perspectives, skills, and talents as well as acknowledge areas where support may be needed, fostering a more complete understanding of the autism spectrum.
    
4. Emphasising Autism as a Spectrum
   The Board recognises that autism is a spectrum of varied experiences. Terms such as "autism spectrum" or "on the spectrum" will be used to communicate this diversity. This approach emphasises the individuality of each person’s experience and avoids generalisations.
    
5. Avoiding Functioning Labels
   To respect the varied experiences within the autism spectrum, the Board will avoid the use of functioning labels such as "high-functioning" or "low-functioning." Instead, we will describe specific needs or strengths, such as “requires support in social communication” or “independent in daily tasks.” This language approach provides a clearer understanding of individual support requirements without oversimplifying their abilities.

In July 2021, the Government published a national autism strategy aimed at improving support for autistic children, young people, and adults in England through to 2026.

The strategy is underpinned by legally binding guidance for local councils and NHS bodies to help enhance their services for autistic individuals. Wolverhampton’s Autism Partnership Board will oversee the local implementation of this strategy.

For details on the national strategy for autistic children, young people, and adults: 2021 to 2026, visit Government Strategy for Autism.

To view future plans to update this strategy, please visit New autism strategy must deliver change for autistic people - Committees - UK Parliament

The National Strategy aligns with statutory guidance on implementing the Autism Act and the SEND Code of Practice, guiding local authorities and NHS organisations in supporting autistic people of all ages. In Wolverhampton, our local commitment is to achieve the six priorities set out in the National Strategy for autistic children, young people, and adults: 2021-2026.

Our Autism Partnership Board will lead these efforts with active involvement from autistic individuals and their families, the NHS, local government, voluntary organisations, and other partners to create a more understanding and inclusive society.

Our Commitment to the Six National Strategy Priorities in Wolverhampton

Over the next five years, we are dedicated to achieving the six priorities of the National Strategy to support and empower autistic individuals.

1. Improving understanding and acceptance of autism within society
   • Increase awareness and knowledge of autism across Wolverhampton.
2. Enhancing educational access for autistic children and young people, and supporting positive transitions into adulthood
   • Work with local educational institutions to ensure smooth pathways and provide transition support for individuals aged 14-25 as they prepare for adult life.
3. Supporting autistic people in employment
   • Facilitate access to fulfilling employment opportunities for autistic individuals in Wolverhampton, enabling them to contribute to society.
4. Reducing health and care inequalities for autistic people
   • Ensure full and positive access to health and care services, promoting a quality care experience.
5. Building the right support in the community and assisting people in inpatient care
   • Ensure autistic individuals have access to appropriate community support with knowledgeable staff and, when needed, a timely hospital discharge.
6. Improving support within the criminal and youth justice systems
   • Provide knowledgeable, autism-sensitive support across the Wolverhampton justice system to respond to individual needs.

• Ambitious about Autism
• Autism Central
• Autism Education Trust (AET)
• Autism West Midlands
• National Autistic society
• Autistic Girls Network
• Resources for Autism
• Dimensions autism friendly environments
• Wolverhampton Local Offer
• Wolverhampton Information Network
• Information in other languages