Dr Idalmis Santiesteban is a founder of the Liverpool Autism Hub, a public engagement initiative aimed at the local autism community. She tells us about their latest event.
During World Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we hosted our latest Liverpool Autism Hub event, and what an inspiring day it was! The theme for this session was Autism and Healthcare, on which we had several fantastic speakers who shared valuable insights into improving healthcare experiences for autistic individuals.
The first talk was delivered by Alice Lloyd and Gina Perigo from Healthwatch Liverpool, a non-profit organisation dedicated to advocating for the community. Alice and Gina are currently working on the Liverpool Neurodivergent All-Age Strategy, a project designed to create a more inclusive society where neurodivergent people feel safe, supported, valued, healthier, and happier. The draft strategy has been co-produced with community members, ensuring those most affected can have their experience and view included in the decision-making process. The consultation stage of the project is underway, and there is still time to have your say before the consultation stage closes on Wednesday 14 May. If you’d like to share your views, visit the Neurodivergent All-Age Strategy website.
Following Alice and Gina, we welcomed Dr. Jennifer Kirton, who introduced us to two vital autism research projects. The Autistic Cancer Care Experience (ACCE) and The Autism Communication Tool (ACT).
The ACCE is a groundbreaking study exploring the experiences of autistic adults with cancer during treatment. Despite similar cancer rates between autistic and non-autistic people, autistic individuals face higher mortality rates. This research aims to uncover the healthcare inequalities that contribute to these disparities and to advocate for better support.
The ACT was co-produced with members of the Autism Hub and is designed to help autistic individuals communicate their needs and concerns in healthcare settings, reducing anxiety around medical appointments. The tool is currently being piloted, and feedback from both autistic patients and clinicians has been overwhelmingly positive. Excitingly, the next phase includes launching a website with an electronic version of the ACT and additional resources for support.
Later in the day, workshops and small group discussions gave attendees the chance to share personal experiences of accessing healthcare as an autistic person. Additionally, we held a virtual reality demonstration using Autismity, an immersive VR tool that simulates autistic sensory sensitivities in everyday environments. Attendees experienced firsthand how factors like light and noise can impact autistic individuals in spaces such as cafés, public transport, classrooms, and open-plan offices.
This event was a resounding success, with positive feedback from both in-person and online attendees. The Liverpool Autism Hub continues to serve as an essential resource for our community, fostering discussions, sharing knowledge, and working toward a more inclusive world.
Celebrating Neurodiversity Through Art
In addition to our recent events, we’re thrilled to announce our art competition in celebration of neurodiversity! This is a fantastic opportunity for neurodivergent individuals to express their identity through art. The theme is “My Neurodivergent Identity”, and we welcome submissions in various forms—drawing, painting, photography, poetry, or even a short video message. You do not need a formal diagnosis to take part. Submit your entry before Tuesday 22 April for your chance to win a voucher to spend at News from Nowhere.
Stay connected with us for updates on future events and initiatives: