September's news and updates from Autism Hampshire
1st September 2025
Discover what’s happening at Autism Hampshire this September. From inspiring stories and exciting trips to volunteer opportunities and training events, there’s plenty to explore. Dive in and see how you can connect, support, and celebrate our vibrant community.
Help shape the future of Avenues
Avenues is creating a new five-year strategy, which will also include Autism Hampshire. This is our chance to look ahead and decide what really matters.
We want this to be a shared vision, shaped by the voices of everyone connected to Avenues. Your experiences and ideas will help us celebrate what we do well and highlight where we can improve.
We’re inviting colleagues, people we support, volunteers and families to join us at upcoming Coproduction Strategy Days in September - with sessions online and in person across London and Hampshire.
Find out more about taking part on our website.
Drop in at the Bitterne hub
Live in Southampton? Our next drop in sessions at the Neurodiversity Connections Hub in Bitterne are on:
- 23rd September, 10am-12pm
- 21st October, 10am-12pm
- 25th November, 10am-12pm
No appointment needed - just pop in for a chat at 434 Bitterne Road, SO18 5RT.
The hub has been created to support neurodivergent people, parents, carers and professionals in Southampton. Our teams from Autism Hampshire and Southampton Autism Support Service (SASS) will be on hand with information, support and a listening ear.
It’s free, inclusive, and open to all. Come along and see how we can help. Or find out more about the hub here.
Make a difference for just £1
For just £1 a week, you can help Autism Hampshire fund projects that make a real difference for autistic people and their families in our community.
Every ticket brings us closer to creating positive change - and you’ll also be in with a chance to win up to £25,000 in our weekly lottery!
Sign up today via our website.
Celebrating grassroots inclusion
Earlier this year, we were delighted to deliver autism training for Hampshire FA. So we couldn’t be prouder to see one of their own, Matt Meadus, recognised nationally for his incredible work.
At the 2025 England Football Grassroots Football Awards, Matt won the Positive Behaviour Award for his outstanding dedication to autistic players.
As an Autism Ambassador at Proco FC, Matt has transformed the experience for players and families through inclusive practices, communication techniques, and coaching methods.
This award is a powerful reminder that inclusive sport benefits everyone. Congratulations, Matt!
Watch a video of Matt's award presentation here.
Family Youth Club in Southampton
The South Hampshire Branch of the National Autistic Society is hosting its monthly Family Youth Club on Saturday, 27th September. It is held at Chandlers Ford Methodist Church in Winchester Road, from 3.30pm to 5.30pm.
This is a welcoming session for families with autistic children and young people, providing a safe space to meet, socialise, and enjoy activities together.
Please note that places must be booked in advance. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit the Family Youth Club page.
Volunteer with our community groups
We're looking for volunteers in Basingstoke, Lyndhurst (New Forest), and Gosport to support our Serendipity Community Groups. Can you help?
These groups provide a welcoming, neurodiversity-affirming space for autistic adults to connect, share experiences, and build confidence.
Volunteering for just a few hours each month is a great way to make a real difference. Find out more on our website or email to get involved via serendipity@autismhampshire.org.uk.
Embracing Autism and mental health
Hampshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) is hosting a Mental Health Focus Week this September, featuring a dedicated day on Friday 12th September all about 'Embracing Autism'.
The session will explore practical skills and strategies to support autistic children to thrive. It is open to parents, carers, and professionals.
- Winchester United Reform Church
- Friday 12th September 2025
- 9.30am to 3.30pm
Booking is essential, please register here.
An unforgettable cruise to Amsterdam
A group from our Alton service recently set sail on a cruise to Amsterdam, exploring the canals, enjoying the tulips in bloom, and making new friends along the way. Well done to the team who made this adventure possible!
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.