06/11/2025
Let us introduce ourselves! We are a small team of three - sisters Louise & Jo and their son/nephew Joseph.
As a close family we do all we can to support each other, and whilst supporting Joseph with his ASD diagnosis we noticed that although there are plenty of activities and groups available for younger children on the spectrum, there is very little aimed at those transitioning into adulthood. Many young adults find it difficult to socialise or make new friends once school or college ends, especially in environments that can feel overwhelming or unwelcoming. For a while now we have been thinking about starting a social group for young autistic adults and their families, to create a space where people like us can venture out, meet new people, make connections and feel part of a supportive community.
Joseph received a late diagnosis at age 16. He is now 22 and after a tricky few years is now in a great place, and working in St Neots. Like many others his age, the next step for Joseph is to build friendships outside of structured settings. I think we can all appreciate what a big step this is to take, and him and his peers would really benefit from having a low pressure, inclusive space where they can spend time together, share interests and have fun trying new things. Quite often, high functioning autistic people want those social connections, and experience loneliness and isolation, but struggle to make and maintain friendships,
Our aim is to create that space. A welcoming, low-pressure social group for autistic young adults (ages 18 to 25) and their families. We are imagining informal evenings with board games, quizzes, crafts and similar activities, as well as outings to local venues such as bowling and the cinema, all designed to encourage connection in a supportive environment.
We are still in the early stages of planning and would like to start small, meeting once a month to begin with. It would be completely non-profit, run by families for families, simply to give local young people an opportunity to meet others in a safe and comfortable setting.
If our story resonates with yours, do reach out and join us.
