August's news and updates from Autism Hampshire
1st August 2025
Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter - packed with updates, inspiring stories, and ways you can get involved. From events and personal achievements to support groups and training opportunities, there’s lots to discover this month.
Thank you for being part of our journey to create a more inclusive and supportive future for autistic people.
Seeking a diagnosis: Lucie's experience
When Lucie began seeking an autism diagnosis at 26, she wasn’t sure where to turn. With support from Autism Hampshire’s Information, Advice and Guidance team - she found her confidence.
Now a volunteer coach with the inclusive football team, the Millbrook Meteors, Lucie shares how being diagnosed helped her embrace her identity and support others.
Watch Lucie’s story and discover how the right support can make all the difference.
New autism training dates now available
We’ve released new dates for our popular autism workshops for parents and schools in Hampshire.
Free training is available for:
- Parents and carers (including CAMHS parent workshops)
- School staff - including teachers, Special Educational Needs Coordinators, teaching assistants, support staff and leadership teams
These sessions are designed to increase understanding of autism and provide practical strategies to support autistic children and young people at home and in school.
Visit our website to see the full range of training available and book your place.
Kirstie creates space to thrive
Congratulations to Kirstie Burgess, our May Employee of the Month! Kirstie has transformed the garden at one of our supported living houses in Bitterne into a vibrant and welcoming space - complete with a swimming pool, solar lights, and outdoor games like badminton and swingball.
Kirstie’s colleagues praised her for always going above and beyond. “She creates a fun and welcoming atmosphere,” said one team member. “She helps across all three houses and never hesitates to support others.”
Inspired by caring for her grandmother, Kirstie joined Autism Hampshire two years ago. “A listening ear can make someone feel heard and that they matter,” she said.
Thank you, Kirstie - and well done! Read her full story on our website.
Need legal advice about social care?
Avenues has partnered with Access Social Care to offer free, expert legal information through a new chatbot on their website.
The AccessAva chatbot is available 24/7 and provides reliable legal guidance on social care rights in England - including helpful resources like letter templates, videos and Easy Read documents.
Whether you’re looking for information for yourself or someone you support, AccessAva is a quick and accessible way to get the facts.
Visit the Avenues website to try it out.
New group is off and running
Our new running group for autistic adults is officially underway! But we need more runners!
Held once a month in Portsmouth, the group offers a welcoming and supportive space to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the benefits of moving at your own pace.
All fitness levels are welcome - whether you’re just starting out or already love to run.
- Monthly on Mondays (next session: 11 August, 11am to 12pm)
- In partnership with BH Live
- Booking via serendipity@autismhampshire.org.uk
To find out more, visit autismhampshire.org.uk/serendipity.
Time for dodgeball
What a success! A recent AECOM Charity Dodgeball Tournament raised over £1,400 for Autism Hampshire!
Organised in partnership with ActiveMe 360, the event saw 18 teams from local companies come together for an action-packed evening of dodgeball and friendly competition - all while supporting autistic people and their families across Hampshire.
A huge thank you to AECOM for choosing Autism Hampshire as your Charity of the Year, and to everyone who took part or helped to make the event such a success.
Want to host your own fundraiser? Head to our website for a few ideas or get in touch with our fundraising team.
Partners' support group
The National Autistic Society's South Hampshire Branch runs a welcoming evening support group specifically for the partners of autistic people - regardless of whether they have a diagnosis or not.
It’s a safe space to talk, feel heard, and access practical tools and strategies to strengthen your relationship.
Where? Chandlers Ford Methodist Church, SO53 2GJ
When? Thursday 28 August
Advance booking is essential, and attendees must be members of the local branch (membership is free). There is a £1 donation on the door - refreshments included.
Find out more and book your place on the NAS South Hampshire Branch website.
Linda’s London Adventure
From sea creatures to skyline views - Linda had a brilliant weekend in London!
She explored the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, enjoyed the London Eye, squeezed in some incredible food and hotel relaxation.
The trip was planned around all her favourite things (nature, history, and royalty), making it the perfect city break. She’s already asking when the next one is!
If there is anything you would like to hear about but don’t see in our updates, please let us know by emailing marketing@autismhampshire.org.uk.
Thank you for supporting Autism Hampshire.
With your help, we can continue making a difference in the lives of autistic people and their families in the local area.