July's news and updates from Autism Hampshire
1st July 2025
Welcome to our July update! This month, we’re celebrating national recognition for our amazing staff, launching new community groups, and sharing ways you can get involved - from volunteering to voting in a charity prize draw. Thank you for being part of our journey to create a more inclusive future for autistic people.
National recognition for exceptional staff
Four exceptional colleagues/teams from Autism Hampshire and Avenues have been shortlisted for the National Learning Disabilities & Autism Awards 2025! These nominations celebrate their dedication to inclusion, compassion, and innovation in supporting autistic people and those with learning disabilities
- Katie Board, Service Manager at Autism Hampshire, is a finalist for The Manager Award.
- The Oliver McGowan Training Team is shortlisted for the Oliver McGowan Training Award.
- Victoria Orsini, Specialist Autism Trainer, is nominated for the Making a Difference Award.
- Emma McGuigan, Avenues Service Manager, is shortlisted for the Supporting Older People with Learning Disabilities Award.
Congratulations to all the finalists! Winners will be announced on 4 July 2025. Read the full article on the news section of our website.
Join us as a Trustee
Autism Hampshire and Avenues are looking for new Trustees to join our Board - and people with lived experience are encouraged to apply.
Whether you’re neurodivergent, have a learning disability, have a relative with a disability, or simply want to help create a more inclusive society, your voice matters - and Avenues wants to hear from you.
Becoming a Trustee is not only a chance to make a real difference, but also a valuable opportunity for personal and professional development.
Visit our website to find out more and apply.
Help us win £2,000 with just one click
We need your help! Can you vote for us in this month's Movement for Good awards?
This month £2,000 is up for grabs and will be awarded to charities making a difference. Your vote will take less than a minute and could help Autism Hampshire secure vital funding to support autistic people and their families.
Every nomination counts! Vote for Autism Hampshire here.
Thank you for your support - together, we can make a real impact!
Adams Hendry team goes the distance
A huge thank you to the team at Adams Hendry Consulting Ltd, who recently took on the Romsey Relay Marathon in support of Autism Hampshire as their Charity of the Year.
Their dedication and energy helped raise over £900, and they crossed the finish line in record time. Every step they ran and every donation received helps us continue our vital work with autistic people and their families across Hampshire.
Thank you to everyone who ran, supported, and donated. See their fantastic achievement on LinkedIn.
New running group in Portsmouth
We’re launching a brand-new monthly running group for autistic adults in Portsmouth, in collaboration with BH Live.
- Starts Monday 14 July
- 11am to 12pm
- Mountbatten Leisure Centre, Portsmouth
- Free to join
Whether you're completely new to running or just looking for a relaxed, supportive space to get moving, this group is for you.
All fitness levels are welcome - no pressure, just friendly faces and fresh air.
To book your place, email: serendipity@autismhampshire.org.uk or complete the registration form on our website here.
We're in Fareham and Waterlooville
We’re out and about this month and would love to meet you at one of these events:
Fareham Community Showcase
Saturday 5 July | 10am to 4pm | West Street, Fareham
Join us at this free, family-friendly event featuring over 50 local charities, groups, and performers.
Embracing Autism - Waterlooville
Tuesday 9 July | 9:30am to 3:30pm | £20 (includes tea & coffee)
Hosted by Hampshire CAMHS, this event is a great opportunity for parents, carers, and professionals to gain practical strategies and support for autistic young people.
Book your place here.
Volunteer with our Serendipity groups
Looking for a meaningful way to give back? We’re looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to support our Serendipity Community Groups for autistic adults.
We currently need volunteers in the following locations:
- Southampton - Drama group
- Havant
- Eastleigh
- Basingstoke
- Portsmouth - Running group (new)
Our groups offer safe, welcoming spaces for autistic adults to connect, build confidence, and enjoy shared interests.
As a volunteer, you’ll help create a supportive environment, assist with activities, and make a real difference in people’s lives. Find out more and apply here.
Share your views to win a £25 gift card
Healthwatch Hampshire wants to hear about your experiences with health and social care services in Hampshire (excluding Southampton and Portsmouth).
Whether it’s your GP, dentist, pharmacy, A&E, or any other service - your feedback can help improve care in your community.
As a thank you, you’ll be entered into a summer prize draw to win one of three £25 One4All gift cards.
Prize draw closes 31 July 2025. Enter the prize draw here. Terms and conditions apply.
If there's anything you'd 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.