THE MAG EXTRA EDITION THREE

Introduction

Another week and here we are again with edition three of THE MAG EXTRA.  It's even longer than last week's epic and there will be some additional articles added on Friday and Saturday.

Believe me, you aint seen nothing yet. September is going to be a massive month for this publication. The service and business directories are on their way. From the moment they are online, THE MAG goes daily.  Those directories will be continually updated, so if you have a group or a business, please keep me updated and I'll get the information onto the directories as soon as I can.

To other sites who publish listings and don't include the groups/businesses that THE MAG does, I have a simple piece of advice. Just take them, make notes and start giving the publicity that they need. They all deserve as much coverage as possible and to omit them is terrible. It's one of the key reasons I started this blog. Just take them (not my work) but the names and contact details and help them to grow.

The end of this month will see the publication of our mental health special. It is an issue that means so much to me and it will be important for everyone who reads it. Already I have recruited an exceptional writing team for this edition. There will be articles that inform you and some that will inspire you. 

If you would like to contribute, please email me at mageditoruk@gmail.com. The same applies to the parenting and young people specials due out in October and November.

I know this is a long read. One suggestion I have for my readers is to just copy and paste it into a word document. Then you can use the search feature to go to the relevant section that you want to read.  

I have worked out a solution to this and it is one that I think will revolutionise this blog.  All will be revealed in due course as it's going to take a while to sort out. After all, you can't expect even me to launch around 10 new blogs (perhaps as many as 20) overnight!!!  September really is the month when this blog moves up a few levels.

Exciting times indeed and I sincerely hope all that THE MAG publishes helps you, because as ABBA say that's 'the name of the game.'

The Brighton Squawk  

                         

If you want to keep in touch with the many events that are taking place in Brighton & Hove, subscribe to The Brighton Squawk. 

Their newsletter is packed with information with a Brighton Bulletin, Community Corner, Worth a Bite, Property Pick, a lengthy What's On Guide, and a Trivia Titbit all completely free. It's sent out every Tuesday and Friday.  THE MAG was given a lovely write-up in their Community Corner section earlier this week and I really appreciate that.   

Leo Baker

You will have noticed that we have a logo now. Don't for a second think that I designed it (and others for THE MAG and THE MAG EXTRA) as that's just not a task I can perform. Credit for the logos and our business card goes to Leo Baker who is "a beginner graphic designer studying sports management at university" and created the logos for me free of charge. 

He is open to doing "a variety of graphic design work for everyone throughout multiple different industries."  Email him at leobaker1409@gmail.com.

Contents

• Events Update
• Mental Health Centre
• It's Amazing Who You See On the Buses These Days
• Group Profiles
• On the Bookshelf supported by Waterstones
• Business Profiles
• The News Centre
• The Diagnosis Den
• LGBTQ+ Section
• It's Christmas.....Well Nearly
• In Review (from Sunday September 6)
• The Next Generation
• A Neurodivergent Sporting Life For Me
• Hyperfixation of the Month - The 1970s
• A Neurodivergent Life Online
• Coming Soon

Events Update

The Lonely Club meets every Sunday between 12pm and 4pm at the JustLife Hub in London Road, Brighton. Organiser of the Lonely Club Lara gave birth to her daughter Lottie recently. Lara has been speaking extremely honestly about life as an autistic first-time mother on Instagram writing that she "wanted to share more honest content" about her experiences."

mASCot have a pub meet at the Temple Bar at 121 Western Road, Brighton BN1 2AD on Thursday September 10 from 7pm to 11pm.  There's also a Coffee Club meeting at Emmaus on Wednesday September 16. That's followed by another meet-up there on Wednesday September 30, both from 10am to 12pm. Sign up to their newsletter for more information.

The next BANG event will take place at Puzzle Bored in New Road on Friday September 4th between 6pm and 8pm with free admission. The venue celebrated its third birthday on September 2.  Speaking on Facebook, Mark Carter thanked everyone for their support over the past three years. There's a special offer of a third off the price of jigsaw puzzles for the week following the anniversary.

Puzzle Bored also holds several other events, including Gay and Tonic on September 12th between 10.30am and 1.30pm. The same group are at the Redroaster in St James’s Street the following day from midday to 3pm.

The Brighton Neurodiversity Community (BNC) has a busy month ahead of them. On Tuesday September 8th, it's Reading Buddies at Bearly Awake from 6pm to 9pm. It's the chance to "read, discuss and share stories together."  It'll be a quieter environment, but optional chatter is always welcomed. 

From 6pm to 9pm on Wednesday September 9, there's a Puzzle Bored Social being held. With Charles St Tap now sadly being closed, September’s Not-So-Sober Social will take place at North Laine Brewhouse from 6-9pm on the 25th. 

Bookings are being taken for their Prom at the  Railway Inn in Portslade on October 10, starting at 8pm running to 11.30pm. More information on their Instagram page.

SEE Autistic Women: London & South East England Support and Social Group is a community for Autistic women in Kent, Surrey, East Sussex, West Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, the Isle of Wight, Hampshire, Oxfordshire and London. The next meetup is being held on Saturday September 19 from 2pm at the Rotunda Cafe in Preston Park, Brighton. 

The Brighton Autism Partnership Board (APB) is defined as “a group of stakeholders, working together” with the aim of making the city of Brighton and Hove “a better place for autistic people to live.”  

The next APB meeting is taking place at Hove Town Hall on Monday September 14th from 10am to midday. This is followed by a debrief of the meeting. There is also the option to attend the meetings online via Microsoft Teams.

Thanks to APB Supporter Cara Loreilhe for the information that was sent to me about this. We will have more information about the APB in future editions. 

The East Sussex Autism Partnership Board works to help autistic people and their carers lead more fulfilling and rewarding lives. It holds meetings three times a year and includes autistic members of the community, family and friend carers, representatives from local autism charities, the NHS, East Sussex County Council and Sussex Police.

It was created in response to the 2009 Autism Act and Autism Strategy. Its aims are to ensure that autistic people and their carers’ voices are heard and to improve the lives of local autistic people. Their next meeting is at Lewes Town Hall on Thursday September 24. The East Sussex Autism Partnership Board also produces a free quarterly online Neurodiversity News publication.

BAM had a well-deserved break in August. They return in September with their monthly meeting at the Friends House on Tuesday September 29 from 5 to 7pm. We'll have more news about this in the coming weeks.

Sunday September 6 sees the Queer Birding Group holding a birdwatching social from 10.30am. In the morning they will be going to the Adur Estuary and then in the afternoon, Mill Hill. Those attending can stay as long or as little as they want with new members always welcome. 

Adhoc Autistics Activity Group continues to hold a weekly meet-up at the North Star every Wednesday from 11pm to 1am.  Thursday September 3 saw them returning to the Ledward Centre for a meet-up beginning at 4pm. If this is successful, more events will be held at the venue in the future. Discussions are also ongoing about an evening event at the Alcampo Lounge. We'll update you when listings have been confirmed.

ADHD Adults East Sussex are holding a Beach BBQ/Picnic at SplashPoint beach in Eastbourne (next to the Redoubt) on Sunday September 6. This was due to be held last Sunday but typical Bank Holiday weather put a stop to that.

Parking is available in the nearby Redoubt Car Park or on the street. A BBQ is being provided and those attending are invited to bring their own food to BBQ themselves or ask the organisers to do it for them. You can also bring your own picnic. You can register your interest on their Facebook page.

On Tuesday September 8, they are holding their regular free peer support group at the Eastbourne Therapy Hub, 2 West Terrace, Eastbourne BN21 4QX. Arrive from 6pm for a 6:30pm start. The session is for those who have either an ADHD diagnosis or ADHD traits but yet to be officially diagnosed. Friends, family and professionals working in this field can also attend.  The topic on the 8th will be self-medication.

 

Nic Gray founded the Hailsham & East Sussex ADHD Support CIC because she was  “sick of watching adults fall through the cracks.”

They hold two free monthly drop-in sessions for ADHD and neurodivergent adults. No booking is required, but it is good to contact them beforehand as that helps them and the venue plan the events.  There is no set structure. It's just a "relaxed space to be around others who get it."   

On the first Tuesday of each month (next one October 6) there's a drop-in at The Sheldon B&B in Eastbourne from 11am to 1pm. Then the other drop-in is on the second Wednesday of the month (September 9) at Diplocks Cafe & Restaurant in Hailsham from 7pm to 8:30pm. Fidget toys are provided at each drop-in.

As well as doing lots to help our community, Nic is also a very brave woman. On November 28, she is raising money for the group by jumping out of a plane. It’ll take just 40 seconds of freefall for Nic to descend 12,000 feet, no wonder he writes “I’m terrified.”

As Nic writes “If my ADHD brain can talk itself into a skydive, your brain can tap "donate.”  Pay a visit now to her gofundme page.  More information on their website.

B!tch On the Mic with Jess Nicks

One of the highlights of last month’s ADHD Experience 8 - Take 2 show at the Brunswick was Jess Nicks. This talented lady will be back at that venue on Sunday October 4th at 2pm. There's also a show at The Bread and Roses in Clapham, London on Saturday October 10th at 5:30pm.

With her one-woman show ‘B!TCH ON THE MIC,’ a taster of which we were treated to in August. Her full show teaches “that our thoughts are just fiction of the mind. You don’t have to believe or obey them.”  Enter a world where debitching the brain takes place with a host of characters who “hijack our thoughts, blocking us from true potential.” 

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Getting curious with our thinking “creates more options” and “we get ourselves instead of deadends.”  Our thoughts are just “fiction of the mind”.

Away from her stage shows, Jess is also a coach and wellness practitioner (based in Brighton) with a range of services offered online or in person.

Her one-woman show sees these characters come alive on stage and audiences love seeing them.  A Debitch Your Brain free starter pack is on her website. 

The Mental Health Centre

Content warning: This section contains information about suicide and suicide prevention.   

World Suicide Prevention Day 2026

Thursday 10 September sees World Suicide Prevention Day take place. This is held to raise awareness of suicide, to reduce the stigma that surrounds the topic and encourage action to be taken on suicide prevention.

 

The theme for this year is 'changing the narrative on suicide' and that is something that needs to happen. We can't be quiet about something like this, can't suffer in silence and not talk or write about it. Our upcoming mental health issue will include articles on this subject. That will be published at the end of this month but we need some coverage now.

Winning the Battle to Stay Alive by Steve Ashfield

This isn’t an easy article to write, but if it helps just one person it will have been worthwhile publishing it.  Suicide is such a difficult subject to write about and it is something that I’ve both considered many times and also attempted.

I’m not going to tell you how I tried to end my life. This article is supposed to help you, not be an instruction manual.  I was around 12 when the dark clouds first began to affect me. More about that in an article I have written for our upcoming mental health special. The main subject of that article is the fact that I suffered in silence and didn’t talk to anyone about what was happening and that’s just not the thing to do.

My schooldays were not an easy time for me. Of course I didn’t know at the time that I was autistic. I was just the quiet, sensitive child who somehow plucked up the courage to become a journalist.

I still can’t work out how no one at school (or my parents and friends) realised that I was suffering mentally. They were just used to me being quiet, but had no idea of the horrible thoughts that were swirling around my head.

My elder brother had two nervous breakdowns and it seems mental health problems are really something that has affected generations of my family. I regularly thought about suicide when I was at school. The problems I had just seemed insurmountable, but I never had the courage to do anything at home. 

The thought of a family member being the ones to find me deterred me. I’d been in that situation myself when my brother attempted to take his life. I caught him in time, but that experience showed to me how a suicide doesn’t just affect the person who dies.

The plan was therefore to take my life while on a school trip to York. I was my usual quiet self and no one had a clue what I was planning to do. When it came to it, I just couldn’t do it, but that didn’t cure my mental health problems.

Many difficult years followed and suicide was often on my mind. There were a few more attempts, most recently in 2017. That really was a low point and very nearly the end for me. By that time I had learned that seeking help rather than suffering in silence was highly advisable. Later that year, I found myself going to The Maytree in London. It describes itself as a “sanctuary for the suicidal” and my time there really did help me. I’d never spoken so much about my mental health or eaten so much quiche lorraine.

There are still dark moments, but finding out I have autism and ADHD has helped me, I have a greater understanding of my life now. There’s still work to do and I had some tough times after being told I might be autistic. More about that in our mental health special.  

Getting help is the answer. It won’t instantly cure your ills, but being able to be open about this subject is so important. There is still stigma attached to the subject of suicide. It’s often a brilliant way to end a conversation that you don’t want to continue. That sadly applies to mental health in general.  

If you break your leg, people will be full of sympathy, ask you how it happened and want to sign your plaster. Tell them that you have mental health problems and you’re bandaged up because you’ve self-harmed or attempted suicide and you just never know how they will react. It shouldn’t be like that.

I hope this article has helped you if you’re in this situation.  We’ll have more about this in future editions. 

Autism Central

Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people of all ages in England. The programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. We offer families education, coaching, and connection through resources, one-to-one peer support, and group learning events. Access and book on the Autism Central website.

New Projects for Helen Morris-Davies

Helen Morris-Davies from Practical Wisdom has a new exciting project. Eight people are being sought by her to take part in a six week beta starting in October. Helen is well aware that there is “a splattering of neurodivergent traits across different areas.” That has led her to want to “explore the whole picture together.”  It will “use ND Navigator to explore ADHD, autistic and dyslexic traits, alongside things like anxiety and trauma, and then actually make sense of what comes back.”

Helen adds; “This isn’t about collecting more labels. It’s about understanding YOU.” Her  coaching and use of practical strategies along with 38 years of nursing experience will be put to good use. This costs £197, for more information contact Helen on her Facebook page. 

 Mental Health & Wellbeing Network Brighton Launched

There was a major event being held on Friday September 4 with the Mental Health & Wellbeing Network being launched in Brighton.

It was launched by Helen Morris-Davies and Dawn Evans.  Dawn is the CEO of Ajuda Training Services who "provide accredited training courses from our academy in Wales through to the rest of the UK and Europe."

The Mental Health & Wellbeing Network is “a growing movement of professionals, advocates and leaders who are keen to support mental health and wellbeing in workplaces and communities.” It has now been launched in ten UK cities and that figure is going to double.

I have to admit to be rather tired when I turned up for the launch event. It had been a tough time getting this edition sorted out. However,  I knew that this was an important event and wanted to support Helen and Dawn with this new venture.

It turned out to be a very special event. Everything was well explained to those in attendance and listening to it really inspired me. Mental health is so important and it was great to be in a room with so many people who are working hard in this field.

That included Sam Thomas who spoke about his excellent Different Hats website. More about that in future editions. The 'You Alright Mate? campaign is a fantastic idea. Getting people to talk to others about mental health is just something that has to happen. As the site says about 'You Aright Mate?' they are "three words that can change (and even save) a life."

I do tend to not see people as potential articles. Everyone has a story to tell of course.  There were so many in the room at this event. I'll endeavour to get as many (if not all) included in THE MAG.  This network is about its members connecting and that is so good to see.  Best of luck to Helen and Dawn for this and we'll have lots more about it in future editions.

Those who join the Network will want to be professionals who want to be “changing the way the UK thinks, talks, and acts around wellbeing.”  Tickets for the launch event cost £13.55 and you can also join their Facebook page.

You can sign-up to become a member at this link. Membership costs £375 plus VAT and for that you will get 6 In-Person events, 6 Online Networking events, a private members community, helpful tools and resources, exclusive discounts and speaker opportunities.

Nadine Morris ADHD Study

 If you have ADHD, what are your strengths?  Nadine Morris is at the University of South Wales studying for her MSc. A Psychology Research Study is being carried out which explores “the strengths associated with ADHD in adults, such as creativity, problem-solving and adaptability. I wonder if that includes writing extremely long editions of THE MAG.

To take part in this study, you need to be aged 18+ and identify as having ADHD. This can be via a diagnosis or being self-identified. Nadine says that the study involves “completing a short, anonymous questionnaire” that will only take between 15 and 20 minutes. All responses will be completely confidential.

The aim of the research is to “highlight the positive aspects of ADHD and contribute to a more balanced understanding.” To get in touch with Nadine use this link.

Engage Explore Evolve Connected Counselling

Are you feeling anxious, low, stuck or overwhelmed?  Carl Evans is a qualified and experienced counsellor, working in the profession since 2006.  He told me that his counselling service offers help for people with ADHD. This comprises “1:1 counselling to those over 18 both in person and online. I also do group work, teach counselors and offer clinical supervision to therapists and support workers.” 

 For more information, visit his website.  He is based at 46 Down Terrace, Brighton BN2 9ZH and the number 16 and 23 buses stop opposite.  More from Carl in our mental health special. He'll be writing about why it is so important to seek help when experiencing mental health problems.

Joe Lenton's New Course!  

Joe Lenton at NeuroHub Community Ltd has a new course beginning in September on the subject of resilience. This takes place over six sessions on consecutive Wednesdays from September 9 to October 21 between 6 and 7pm. The course will “be looking at a multifaceted, science-based approach that builds on our identity and needs, relationships with others and co-creating an ecosystem in which all can thrive.”

The course will identify existing as well as potential resources, building custom toolkits for personal resilience as well as critiquing the structures that support and limit our resilience, and considering our potential role as advocates for change.

Subjects covered will include defining what is resilience and well being? Then there’s the factors that affect resilience, identifying and mapping our resources, mindset, worldview and explanations, exploring identity and resilience in community

It costs £60 plus a £3.24 fee. If you are having some financial problems, you can pay what you can afford (minimum £10). More information at this link.  

Still a Chance to see their Autistic Mental Health Conference

Last month saw NeuroHub Community Ltd hold their three-day autistic mental health conference. I saw all three days online and it proved to be an extremely informative event. You can read my review in the last edition of THE MAG EXTRA.

If you were unable to buy a ticket for the conference or the full recordings, the good news is that there is now a sale for on-demand access to the conference. The funds received from the purchases will be shared with those who were speakers at the conference. There’s currently a 50% off offer which sounds very attractive indeed.

The recordings have been split up into three convenient bundles. This allows you to choose the content that is of the most interest to you. I can definitely recommend the talks given by Ava McAuley, Nikki Smith, Meryem Cetinkaya, Ed Shearer (more about Ed in would you believe our Christmas section), Erin Ekins and David Gray-Hammond.

There are also some bonus pre-recorded sessions that were not shown during the live event. The recordings are so useful as you will be able to watch them in your own time and pause them when you want to.

NeuroHub says that the talks “offer valuable perspectives from Autistic speakers and advocates” and I totally agree with that.  

They also have an online community on the Heartbeat platform. This already has over 450 members and allows you to “connect with Neurodivergent people all over the world. Click here for more information. There are both free and paid tiers.

Have You Registered for the Learning Disability Register?

Mencap are “on a mission” to spread awareness of just how important it is to join the learning disability register. Are you in? 

They want everyone who has a learning disability to join the register so that they then get better health care and a free annual health check. Being on the register means that your needs are respected. Their aim is simply to “make healthcare fairer.”

People who have a learning disability are dying on average nearly 20 years younger than those who don’t. The terrible fact is that almost 40 percent of those deaths were avoidable.

Your first task is to join the learning disability register. Once that has been achieved, you can join Mencap’s ‘I’m In ‘ campaign. You will receive a free ‘I’m In’ badge which shows your support and helps to spread the word about the campaign.

Most doctor’s surgeries have a learning disability register. To be able to go onto the register, an official diagnosis is not required. Being on it though will help your doctor’s surgery know just who among their patients may require additional health support.

You will need to ask your doctor to add you to their learning disability register. Mencap have created a tool that helps you build a letter that can then be sent to your doctor.  

Divergent Mind

Time to find out more about Divergent Mind Coaching Ltd from its director Georgia Franklin-Cook. 

"Divergent Mind is a strengths-based neurodiversity coaching and support service, specialising in ADHD and autism. I work with neurodivergent adults, young people and families, offering practical, individualised support to help people better understand how their brain works and find strategies that genuinely work for them.

Support can include executive functioning, organisation and planning, communication and social skills, managing overwhelm and burnout, confidence and self-advocacy, navigating education or employment, and support with neurodivergence-related paperwork and processes.

I also work with parents and carers who are looking for guidance around supporting a neurodivergent child or young person, as well as providing neurodiversity training and workshops for schools, organisations and workplaces.

The approach is practical, non-judgemental and strengths-based. The aim isn't to change neurodivergent people to fit a particular mould, but to identify barriers, understand individual needs and turn those barriers into functional, achievable progress. Sessions are available online so I can work with individuals and families across the UK, as well as offering face-to-face services where appropriate. email info@divergentmind.uk for more information.

Look out for lots more comprehensive support group listings later this month. That's when THE MAG SUPPORT CENTRE makes its debut.

It's Amazing Who You See On the Buses These Days 

The countdown to the Brighton & Hove Comic Con on September 5 and 6 continues. After the publicity event on the Palace Pier, it was time for the Sightseeing bus passengers to receive a pleasant shock. They probably didn’t expect to see superheroes and stormtroopers on the buses but that’s just what they saw.

Deadpool even managed to get away with having his feet up on the back seat of a bus. Who was going to be brave enough to tell him off?

The promotional day took place with the help of Brighton & Hove Buses and there’s a special offer in place for this weekend’s Brighton & Hove Comic Con. You can receive 20% off admission on the day if you show a valid Brighton & Hove Buses ticket.

Organizers of the event commented on the special promotion: "We had such a fantastic day. The weather certainly tried its best, but everybody just got on with it and had fun. We are enormously grateful to Brighton & Hove Buses and City Sightseeing Brighton for supporting a new independent local event and helping us bring a little bit of Comic Con out onto the streets of Brighton."

The Brighton & Hove Comic Con is really becoming a special community event. Organizers have given hundreds of complimentary tickets to local charities and support organisations. These include Amaze Sussex and the Rockinghorse Children's Charity,  "It was important to us that local charities and community organisations were included in the event, so we decided to set aside a substantial number of complimentary tickets for the people they support. 

The response has made us realise that this is something we want to continue. If we organise future Screentear events, we intend to include a dedicated charity and community ticket allocation from the outset. Comic Con is about escaping into another world for a few hours, having fun and making memories. We want as many people as possible to have the opportunity to experience that."

The two-day event will see a whole host of special guests, comic artists, cosplay, gaming, traders and talks. Doors are open from 10am-5pm on both days.  More information in THE MAG EXTRA TWO.  Look out for a review of the show going online in this blog on Sunday.  You'll never guess who interrupted me while I was chatting to Pam Rose!!!

Group Profiles 

I'm so proud that THE MAG includes details of so many groups. I know there are more of them out there that haven't been covered yet. If you know of one, just ask them to email me at mageditoruk@gmail.com and I'll get a free listing sorted out. Later this month our services directory will be launched. In the meantime, here's some details about groups in our area.

Ali Purbrick - We Are All A Bit Bananas!

Budget cuts are something that sadly we have to live with. The economic climate is not a promising one despite the excitement of some over a new Prime Minister. 

Ali Purbrick is trying to raise funds “to create a sustainable bank of resources for a mental health community group.” For over 14 years, Ali worked at the Wellbeing Hub at Preston Park, a place that I know is a very useful asset for those who find themselves in difficulty with their mental health. 

At one stage, the hub was open every day of the week with an experienced staff, a cafe and a range of free holistic activities. Now it is only open for eight hours a week and just half of the staff remain. Attempts to fight the cuts sadly came to nothing and this year saw Ali made redundant. 

Her view is that she does not want to “ be part of a system that does not value preventative care and community.”  Ali has decided to “set up another safe space to let that community continue to flourish”  As she writes, “We want to reclaim our madness, hence 'We are all a bit bananas' as uniqueness and find joy in connection and creativity.”

The ‘We Are All a Bit Bananas’ community group meets every Monday at the One Church Florence Road with occasional meetings at Hove Museum or other community venues  if that’s not available.

The group includes peer led, co-created activities and natural organic peer support. They are neurodivergent friendly with fidget toys, ear defenders and there is a quiet space to go to if  you feel overstimulated.

Their venues are wheelchair accessible (including a toilet) and the activities they hold are inclusive of all abilities. There are jigsaw puzzles and anti-stress colouring tables, a quiet reading area/room and there’s tea. Coffee and squash available as well as fruit and biscuits.

Their timetable includes dancing and singing for fun, meditation and grounding tools, art and a silent book club which is followed by discussion.

All of this costs money though and Ali is currently seeking funds to pay for art materials, photocopies of resources, the food and drink (including of course bananas), jigsaw puzzles and games, taxi fares for the most vulnerable/disabled and payments to the venue to help pay the heating and lighting costs.  There's a Crowdfunder ongoing at present whichat the time of finally getting this edition finished had raised £1450 of a £2000 target.

The new group has been praised for its work and hailed as “an absolute lifesaver.”  It has been described as “an amazing group” and “a welcome space to connect with everyone.”

Autism Support Crawley

Founded in 2007, Autism Support Crawley (ASC) began as a small, carer-led community group, providing a safe space for unpaid carers to connect, share experiences and support one another. Over the years, our dedication to caring for carers led us to become a registered charity in 2017, allowing us to expand our reach and impact. Today, we support over 2,800 carers across Sussex, Brighton & Hove, Surrey, Kent and the Hampshire borders, with the large majority being Crawley residents.

Unlike many autism charities that focus primarily on autistic individuals, ASC was created with a different mission - to support those who devote their lives to caring for an autistic person or persons. We understand that caregiving can be isolating, emotionally overwhelming and often comes without the guidance or recognition it deserves. With limited support available for carers, we provide a lifeline of peer support, community and practical resources to ensure they are not alone on their journey.

As the only autism-specific carer support charity in the region, we offer judgement-free spaces where carers can share their struggles, seek advice and build connections with those who truly understand. Whether through our coffee mornings, evening meetings and family events, online peer support, or our closed Facebook group, our community provides a sense of belonging, reassurance and solidarity. 

Many of our members express just how much ASC has meant to them, with one carer sharing, "I am glad I found this community. It has given me friends and I know I/we are not alone. The face-to-face carer evenings are great - sometimes we talk about issues and suggest things to help each other, but sometimes we're just 'us' and there is laughter and fun."

The impact of our work extends beyond just support groups. Our educational resources and events, such as webinars and family activity days, have been deeply valued by our members. As one parent put it, "We love the family activity days. Fabulous, caring committee." Another expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for the webinars," recognising the importance of accessible information and learning opportunities.

At Autism Support Crawley, we are a volunteer-led organisation, driven by the passion, commitment and dedication of those who have walked this path themselves. In 2022, we welcomed our first employee, further strengthening our ability to expand our services and advocate for autism carers. Every initiative we run - from peer support, information and wellbeing sessions, to fundraising and public awareness and acceptance drives - is designed to empower carers with the knowledge, support and connections they need.

We are not just a charity; we are a community, a family. As one of our members so simply put it, "Autism Support Crawley is so helpful and a great support in all areas, it really does help me and my family." This is why we exist - to ensure that no carer ever feels isolated, unheard, or unsupported.

In 2015 we won ‘Best Support Group’ at the inaugural Crawley Community Awards. On Tuesday May 20th 2025 we attended again, this time shortlisted in The Mayor’s Award for the Charity of the Year category. Our charity was announced as the winners of this prestigious award and it was an honour for members of our Board of Trustees, volunteers and carers we support in attendance to receive the award for us all. 

As we made our way onto the stage, the following nomination from a carer was read out: “ I am nominating this amazing charity because they really do help change the lives of parents and carers who are in need of help and support with raising their children who are on the Autistic Spectrum. This charity has helped me so much and I am truly grateful for everything they do. 

Not only do they support you through navigating the whole Special Educational Needs systems, they also provide the most amazing workshops, which give life-changing information on how best to support your child whilst you wait years for help and assessments. They always go above and beyond to help families who don’t know where to turn to for help.”

We are beyond incredibly proud and humbled to have our charity and work recognised in such a wonderful way. As a very small charity making big things happen, we are extremely lucky that every penny raised for ASC goes straight back into supporting carers through running our events.

Fundraising on the Fairways

Saturday September 19 is going to be a massive day for Autism Support Crawley. That is when they hold their annual Golf Day. It’s being held at the Ifield Golf Club and is open to players who have a handicap of 28 or under. That’s me ruled out then.

They are looking for sponsors, contact them if you are interested. Packages start at just £75 and that is excellent value. A raffle will also be taking place, so if you have any prizes to donate, they’d love to hear from you. 

The event will raise money to help the charity support parents/carers who “dedicate their lives to support their Autistic/Neurodivergent family members, with or without a diagnosis, across Sussex & surrounding areas.”

As well as the excitement on the golf course, there’s an event in the evening which includes DJ Leona Graham.  

Beyond Strength

Are you disabled, caring for someone, or supporting a family member with additional needs?  Do you find yourself searching across different websites, organisations and social media groups just to find the right support?

Beyond Strength is building a trusted digital platform for disabled individuals, families and carers. It will bring accessible services, trusted professionals, wellbeing support, practical resources, inclusive opportunities and a supportive community together in one place.

Early-access sign-ups are now open. By joining the list, readers will be among the first to receive platform updates, access future workshops and resources, discover community opportunities and help shape Beyond Strength ahead of its official launch.

Sign up free on their website.

MyLifeMe is a completely free web-based wellbeing resource, founded by Eastbourne-based therapist Emma Disney.

It’s designed to support anyone with their emotional wellbeing, helping people understand themselves better, self-regulate and access practical support when life feels difficult or overwhelming.

MyLifeMe includes guided resources, practical tools and clear explanations of what the tools are, why they can help and how to use them in everyday life.

It is completely free, accessible to all and available wherever you are. Because it is web-based, there is nothing to download and no subscription required.

Emma also supports the local community through talks and visits to schools, organisations and community groups, helping make emotional wellbeing support more accessible.

The ethos behind MyLifeMe is simple:

Helping people move beyond surviving and start thriving — whoever they are, wherever they are in life.  There's more information on the MyLifeMe Facebook page.

There's Plenty Happening at the Grace Eyre Foundation  

Grace Eyre are holding their 2026 Artist Open House Exhibition on September 26 and 27. This is part of the Worthing Art Trial and takes place from 12pm to 4pm at Grace Eyre, 53 Rowlands Road, Worthing BN11 3JR. 

The work on show will include mosaics, print, painting, textiles, collage and drawings. All of them have been made by artists that have learning disabilities as well as autistic adults with artwork and affordable items available to purchase.

At Community Base (South Wing) in Queen’s Road, Brighton BN1 3XG, there is a monthly Check-In and Check Out drop-in session for people with a learning disability who receive fewer than six hours’ support a week.  This takes place on the fourth Thursday of the month (September 24) between 1:30pm and 3:30pm. 

This is the chance to meet friends, have a cuppa, play pool and ask any health and well-being questions you may have. You can come on your own or be accompanied by a friend or family member.

The charity is asking for your support so they can be chosen as one of the Co-op’s local causes. By Monday September 1 they had been selected by 1,728 people and would love to get to 2,000 with just a few more weeks of the nominations to go.

By choosing Grace Eyre as your local cause, it can raise funds for Grace Eyre every time you do your shopping at the Co-op. The charity is planning to hold some cookery classes and these will “bring people together “to learn essential life skills that promote healthier choices for healthier lives.”

To  nominate them go to this webpage. 

Prepare Yourself for a Fright Night Rave this Halloween

Halloween is on its way and here's news of a special spooky event on Monday October 26 at the Brunswick, 1 Holland Road, Hove BN3 1JF. This is an accessible venue.

Purple Productions and Heart Venture present Fright Night Rave! It's going to be a night to dress up for the costume contest, what will you wear?  There'll also be games, performances, a Monster Mash Dance Contest (even the best Halloween song came out in the 1970s) and of course some Tricks and Treats.

This is a neurodiversity-friendly event and is being held from 7pm to 10pm. 10:00pm. Tickets are available online and cost £10 with free admittance for carers.  For more information, call Jenny Good on  07816 646331 or email jgood@grace-eyre.org.

ADHD Aware

ADHD Aware provides a number of services for the local area. You do not need to have been officially diagnosed with ADHD to be able to access their services. A number of support sessions are held each month, more details on this page.

The in-person drop-in session takes place at the Friends Meeting House in Ship Street, Brighton BN1 1AF. They are held on the first Wednesday of the month between 7pm and 9pm, so that will be October 7. You need to be aged at least 18 and there is no problem bringing along a friend, family member or partner. 

The online session is held on the second Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm - September 9 being the next session..

The second Tuesday of each month sees a Zoom event for the parents of children with ADHD (under 18), so the next will be on September 8 starting at 7pm. For those with children 18+, the Zoom session is on the fourth Wednesday of each month (September 23).

There is also a meeting for partners of adults with ADHD and that's held on Zoom on the third Wednesday of each month (September 16).

The group discussion meetings are held both online on Zoom and in-person. The online discussion is held on the third Tuesday of the month (September 15) from 7pm. 

The in-person group discussion is held at the Brighton Foyer in Pelham Street, Brighton BN1 4FA. I’ve attended the last two and they discussed sleep management and demand avoidance.  I found both to be very useful and were followed by a social at a local pub where the discussions about our neurodivergent lives continued.  Free snacks are available. 

The next group discussion meeting is being held on Tuesday September 22 and runs from 7pm to 9pm.  The subject matter that evening will be ‘Navigating Friendships.’  The discussion will look at ‘what comes to mind when you think about navigating friendships, what happens in your friendships and what do you expect of yourself and what are others expectations of you?’

A Couples’ Course is being held next year. It begins on Thursday January 29 and runs for seven weeks through to March 25. This costs £360 and is run by Karen Doherty who is a leading UK neurodivergent couples psychotherapist and skilled facilitator Yvonne Rivers. 

The deadline for applications is November 18. The course follows ADHD Aware’s “trusted peer support model, enabling couples to connect and share experiences. The course will explore “both the unique strengths and challenges of being in a neurodiverse relationship!”

For lots more information about what is going on, you can register for their newsletter.

Simon Budden – A Celebration of his Life - 6th September 2026 by Martin J Bunker

We’re very sad to share that Simon Budden passed away recently following his battle with cancer.

Simon was a long-standing volunteer with the ADHD peer support groups and had been part of our community for many years. He attended countless groups and events and was well known and much loved by many people in the community. He will be greatly missed by all of us who knew him.

In order to try to fulfil his wish, we’re organising a gathering on Hove Beach, to remember Simon, and come together as a community to celebrate his life.

📅 Sunday 6 September

🕐 1pm

📍 Hove Beach (in line with the Peace Statue)*

*Or, if weather is bad the Brunswick Pub

We will also be trying to raise money for Martletts Hospice as they made Simon welcome very comfortable in his final days.

Everyone who knew Simon is very welcome to join us along with other members of our local community.

Please bring your own food and refreshments.

For more information and to leave tributes, messages and/or photos - you can join the WhatsApp group here.

Autism by the Sea

Autism by the Sea is a support group based in Worthing. It has a closed Facebook page and members must live in Worthing or the surrounding areas. It was founded and is chaired by Clare Greaves who has a 13-year-old son who was diagnosed with autism when just two years of age. 

The group aims to give support to its members, inform them of local events and to help fundraise for events for local families and children. 

Neurodiversity beyond labels

The Bank Workers Charity supports the banking community past and present. They support people’s wellbeing by providing them with information, guidance and financial assistance. This month sees them hold a webinar entitled ‘Neurodiversity beyond labels.’  It takes place on Wednesday September 23 at 2pm.

This will “explore common myths, understand some of the challenges women and adults can face – and learn everyday ways to make workplaces more accessible and inclusive.”

It will explore “how neurodiversity is experienced differently across groups – from the unique challenges faced by women, to the rise in adult diagnoses.”  For more information go to this webpage.

HEARD

HEARD is a community organisation dedicated to offering accessible peer support, safe spaces, and connection for the neurodivergent community. Over to Lara Leeves for more details about this group.

"I originally set up HEARD after years and years of my own tremendous, hidden struggles that nobody really saw. I wanted to build a safe, understanding space where neurodivergent people could finally feel seen and supported. 

I'm actually in the process of applying for official charity status for HEARD now—and beautifully enough, while I created this group to help others, the community has ended up being an incredible source of strength and support for me through everything our family is facing right now….

HEARD. Walk & Talk BRIGHTON & HOVE with Selina

This takes place on Sunday September 6 between 10am and midday. It’s a “relaxed seafront walk from Brighton Palace Pier to Babble on Kingsway, Hove.”  They’ll stop at Babble if anyone fancies a coffee or drink after all that walking. This is described as a chance to “meet like-minded women” and “enjoy great conversation.” It’s open to all, whether you’re a long-standing member of HEARD or a newbie.

The organisers say that there will be “no awkward introductions” or “pressure to socialise in any particular way and no expectations.” It’s a chance to “simply enjoy the fresh sea air and feel the magic of being around other women diagnosed with ADHD in later life.”

Their Walk & Talks are about “creating genuine connections and reminding ourselves that none of us have to do life alone.” If you wish, you’re welcome to take a return walk back to the pier. 

HEARD Studio: This is our creative arm! Through the studio, I’ve hosted creative workshops, authored a specialized workbook for newly diagnosed women, and am currently developing some really exciting new workshop concepts.

Community Garden: We are also actively working on establishing a community garden project where I live in Sayers Common to provide a grounding, outdoor space for connection.

For more information, go to their Facebook page.

Next Steps

Next Steps “provides person-centred supported living services for individuals with autism, mental health needs, learning disabilities and complex needs.”

They have great delight in the fact that their support has successfully transitioned many of their clients. That includes some who have had the most complex needs and challenging behaviour. Next Steps has helped them to “re-integrate and be part of their communities.” This sees them being able to “lead the lives they choose.”

Their approach of how to support people is “always based on the foundations of providing a bespoke and person-centre service; developed around the individual and their specific needs.”

Possability People

We'll have more about this charity in our upcoming service directory. In the meantime, Kat Greening sent me some information about that they do.

"Possability People is a pan-disability charity based in Brighton and Hove that works across Sussex. We aim to support and advise disabled people, and those with long-term health conditions, to help them feel enabled and empowered to live the life they choose.

We believe in choice, inclusivity, and personalised support. We run many different projects and services that range from practical support, to helping to get your voice heard, or to providing access to the right information.  Email them at hello@possabilitypeople.org.uk or call 01273 89 40 40 

On Monday September 21, they are holding a Get Involved Group (GIG) Online Meeting from 12:30pm to 2pm.  Then on Wednesday October 7, there is a Disabled Car Users Group, again 12:30pm to 2:30pm. Another Get Involved Group meeting is being held on Monday October 19, this time in person in KempTown, Brighton. 

Parent Insight

Would you like some help preparing for a school or SENCO meeting? Doing that can be rather overwhelming, especially due to the large amount that needs to be remembered. Parent Insight has created a school and SENCO Meeting planner and it’s totally free. This will help you to 

✓ organise your child’s strengths and your concerns

✓ record what has already been tried

✓ prepare the questions you want to ask

✓ leave the meeting with clear agreed actions

This is suitable regardless of whether your child has been given an official diagnosis, is waiting for an assessment to take place or has no identified additional need. Click here to download your free copy.

SEN Mum's of Sussex

SEN Mum's of Sussex was started because the organiser knows how lonely it is at times being a SEN mum, “even if you do have people around you to talk to.” Those who are members of her Facebook group can “understand each other a little better than others do.” That makes it a great place to “share, give advice, ask for help or even let off steam!”

Time for Autism

This is a “ground-breaking education programme” which has the aim to “transform healthcare for autistic people.”  They hope to achieve this by “increasing the knowledge and understanding of medical students.”

It is a mandatory part of the fourth year of the medical curriculum. This sees students learning about autism from specialists in the field. Those specialists include autistic adults and parents/carers of autistic children.

The students are paired with a family which includes a young person on the autism spectrum. Three visits are made to their home during the course. This gives the students a “unique opportunity” to chat to the families and learn from them their experiences “within and outside of healthcare settings.” 

As a result, more will be learned by the students about autism and the impact that it has on their day-to-day lives.  As the Time for Autism website says: “the young people and their families are the teachers.”

The model for this comes from Time for Dementia in which a similar process is carried out. That sees people with dementia and their carers teaching undergraduate medical and healthcare students about how they live with the condition.

Time for Autism is a collaboration between Brighton and Sussex Medical School. Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, Sussex Partnership, families, local charities and voluntary groups.

The list of local charities and autism organisations that Time for Autism works with includes mASCot, Amaze, Autism Support Crawley, Reaching Families and SEDSConective.  All of whom are featured at some point in this edition. Working with them has seen more than 200 local families be recruited for the Time for Autism programme.

There is also an advisory group that meets regularly and provides the programme with advice on issues that affect autistic people and their families. All the members of the group are either autistic and/or have autistic children. 

They are looking for families in Brighton and Hove and around Sussex to take part in their education programme. That’s being held at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.  If you would like to get involved with this, email their development manager Alison Smith at timeforautism@bsmc.ac.uk or call her on 07717 450954. 

A video call will be held that allows Alison to explain the programme in more depth allowing you to make a decision. You can change your mind over whether to participate or not at any time.

Follow Time for Autism on Facebook. More about Time for Autism in future editions.

Reaching Families

Reaching Families was first established 18 years ago by parent-carers. It was formed to “empower, inform and support parent-carers and families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in West Sussex”. 

They achieve this by delivering a wide range of “high quality projects and services” including ‘Making Sense of It All.’  That parent-carer guide is so impressive, West Sussex parents often call it the ‘parent-carer bible.’  It is designed to “inform and empower parents of children with SEND from birth through to adulthood.”  

Subjects covered include diagnosis, benefits and money matters, getting support for your child at school and health and social care as well as transition to adult life.  Also contained is a directory of over 400 local and national organisations plus a jargon buster. I can see why parents describe it the way they do. Go to this page to download an epub version or order a paperback version for £5.   

Training workshops are also held and these take place on zoom.

On Tuesday September 8th, there’s a workshop on ‘Understanding ADHD from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.  Then on the 15th, at the same time it’s ‘Making sense of masking.  Two days later from 10:30am to 12:30pm, the subject is ‘Making sense of Education Health and Care Needs Assessments and Plans (EHCPs).

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September 25 sees a workshop on ‘‘Making sense of behaviours that challenge (2-11 year olds)’ again from 10:30am to 12:30pm.  Then on the 28th between 7:30pm and 9:30pm, there’s a workshop on understanding demand avoidance.  A busy time in September ends on the 29th with ‘Making Sense of Wellbeing: Resilience skills for parents and carers between 10:30am and midday.

In October there’s ‘Making Sense of PIP’ on Monday October 12th from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. A couple of days later from 10:30am to midday, the subject is ‘Understanding Sensory Processing Difficulties.’  Then on the 19th from 7:30pm to 9:30pm there’s a workshop on ‘Understanding Autism in Girls.’

In addition to those workshops, there is also a SEND Foundation Course. This is an introduction to SEND and the key issues that parent carers will face as their children grow and develop. These take place on Wednesday September 23 and 30 from 10am to 1:15pm.  

To find out more, send an email to outreach-training@reachingfamilies.org.uk.

SEDSConnective

SEDSConnective was founded in Sussex eight years ago. Jane had been inspired by her own lived experience of late diagnosis, neurodivergence and disability. Initially Jane (now an MBE) set out on a voluntary initiative, but it kept growing and became a global charity that helps thousands of members around the world.

SEDSConnective exists to “create a safe, understanding community where people with symptomatic hypermobility and neurodivergence can connect, share, and thrive.” By working with other partner organisations, they are “building better awareness, support, and outcomes for all.”

Zetetick Housing

Zetetick Housing is a specialist supported housing charity providing safe, high-quality homes for adults with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs. Working across South London, Sussex and Kent, we specialise in securing and sustaining long-term homes where people are supported to feel safe, settled and able to shape a life of their own. 

We work in close partnership with care providers, commissioners, families and local communities to ensure each home is responsive to individual needs, strengths and aspirations. Our approach is informed by the belief that access to a safe, stable home is fundamental to dignity, independence and inclusion.

On the Bookshelf  - supported by Waterstones Brighton

Understanding AuDHD by Dr Khurram Sadiq

This was among the first books that I bought after my diagnosis with autism in May of this year. At the time of reading it, I had yet to be diagnosed with ADHD, but it was looking very likely (it happened in July) and reading this book taught me a lot.

If you are struggling to understand AuDHD, then this is really going to help you, it certainly did prove useful for myself. One strong aspect of this book is how it includes real-life stories of those who are members of the neurodivergent community. Being diagnosed isn’t easy to cope with and I have found that reading books has helped. The book also gives advice on how you can discuss your diagnosis with your loved ones.

Autism for Dummies By John Marble, Khushboo Chabria and Ranga Jayaraman

There is so much to learn about autism. It seems as every day goes by I seem to learn something new. I'll be reviewing this book in our next MAG EXTRA, though I'm sure it'll get a mention somewhere in our mental health and parenting/young people specials.

I've read a few of the books in the Dummies series, though never expected to be reading this one.  This is a comprehensive guide to the subject of autism and it is going to be essential reading whether you are newly diagnosed, a parent, a carer or a professional/educator.

It includes the latest research into autism and diagnosis criteria. When I was first diagnosed, I said that it was time to go on a voyage of discovery. This looks like being another importan step in that journey. 

Lisa Lloyd is Coming to Waterstones in Brighton 

                                              

The good news is that Lisa Lloyd is coming to Waterstones in North Street, Brighton to give what promises to be a fascinating talk about her book 'Unmasking Mum.'  This takes place on September 14th starting at 7:00pm. The Book & ticket option includes a copy of Unmasking Mum (rrp £18.99) available for collection at the event - £22 or £5 standard entry. 

On September 16, there’s a Paint & Sip evening taking place at Waterstones at 71-74 North Street BN1 1ZA in Brighton. This will raise awareness and funds for AMAZE Sussex. 

The evening  is part of the Story Trail which has seen Amaze partner with Wild in Art and sees Waterstone’s hosting a paint-your-own mini BookBench event.  They will provide all the sculptures and paints, so if you have any particular design ideas, then this is just for you. 

Maybe you could recreate your favourite book cover (there’s thousands to choose from in Waterstone’s) or have already been inspired by one of the benches that are on the Story Trail. Whatever you do, it’s going to be a great night and helping raise funds for a very good cause. Tickets cost £15.

The Business Centre

Calm the Chaos Admin

Now for our business that's based in Aberdeen. Kaye tells us all about it. "I have started a business called Calm the Chaos Admin, from 20yrs admin experience and my lived experience of being Audhd, with an Audhd son. The paperwork, admin, scheduling,Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), benefits forms, emails that come with neurodiversity are overwhelming! But that’s where my skills lie. I want to help other people by doing admin support for them and taking something off their plate. 

I help neurodivergent individuals and small businesses with their admin work.  Benefits forms, EHCPs, writing emails, untangling email inboxes, spreadsheets, editing, data entry, breaking big tasks down into manageable steps.  

I created Calm the Chaos Admin to help ND people be less overwhelmed.  I offer gentle, ND friendly support, with no pressure and no judgement.  I am based in Scotland but work remotely-only, so location doesn't matter. 

 From my lived experience, I know how heavy things can get, and I want to use my skills and experience to support people.  I want to make people feel less alone, less stuck and more supported as this world can be lonely and overwhelming. I am a safe space for people. I have my PVG and am recommended by local charities who signpost me to people they work with. 

You can find me with lots more information on Facebook - Calmthechaosadmin, Instagram - calmadminsupport or email calmthechaosadmin@gmail.com. 

Endervampire  

                                  

Here's some information from Dele about her business Endervampire.

“As well as my art and jewellery, I make custom hidden disability infocards. They can be customised in every way, are mainly used for communication or disability/emergency information and they were designed with sunflower lanyards in mind. 

I myself am autistic and mostly nonspeaking - I started making them for myself and some friends, but then thought they could really help the wider community (which is also why I try to keep my prices for them as low as possible!!).  

They are available on my etsy -  - but I am also contactable through Instagram or email (della.endervampire@gmail.com). I always have a post pinned to my Instagram profile about my upcoming markets !! .It is regularly updated with new markets that get added. Below we have a list of market appearances for Endervampire. 

• September 6 - Beau Events at New Road  
• September 12 - Rainbow Crafts at the Unitarian Church, New Road
• September 19 - Rainbow Crafts at Friends Meeting House
• October 10 -  Beau Events in Jubilee Square
• October 11 - Deviants Market at Komedia
• November 7 - Beau Events at Friends Meeting House
• November 21 - Folk & Bespoke at St Augustine's
• December 12 - Seaside Siblinghood at the Unitarian Church 

Felipe Dos Santos Pacheco

Felipe is a familiar face at neurodivergent events in Brighton. He’s also a very talented artist so it’s a pleasure to include him in THE MAG. In this YouTube video, he talks more about his work.

                                               

Here he tells us just what he does.  “I make abstract colourful watercolour work, with a touch of stencils and acrylic. My work comes from a place of curiosity of different mediums and the joy of creating something without an agenda. I chase the flow state where I belong to the movement of colours in the paper, where all there is are the sudden tone shifts and pigment scatter. 

Currently the only place I can be found is on my Instagram where I post a lot more than just the watercolours, a dose of curious experiments and creative side quests! Working on a website to display the full range soon!

Full Circle Healing  

Full Circle Healing is a Brighton-based, neurodivergent-led wellbeing business blending shamanic healing, sound therapy and self-coaching to support trauma release, relaxation and spiritual growth. It grew out of our own lived experience, Matt with ADHD and Paula with Autism, as we started exploring what in nature could genuinely help with calm, focus and energy. 

That curiosity became our range of natural products, including mushroom tinctures, ceremonial cacao and our NeurodiversiTEA blends, alongside our one-to-one sessions. We love meeting people at festivals and markets across the South, and being part of a community that celebrates neurodivergence rather than trying to fix it.

A Beautiful New Local Connection

In their September newsletter, Full Circle Healing also mentioned their support of the Neuro-Affirming Network.

"Something else quietly beautiful began this month, too.

 

We recently had the privilege of supporting one of The Neuro-Affirming Network’s local 'Duvet Days' in Saltdean - helping to create a safe, low-demand space where neurodivergent children, young people and their families can simply be themselves.

 

As a neurodivergent-led business, their work feels incredibly close to our hearts. We believe so deeply in creating spaces where different minds aren’t asked to mask, conform or become easier for the world to understand, but are met with compassion, curiosity and genuine acceptance."

In reply the Neuro-Affirming Network commented: "We are keen to hear from all neurodivergent independent businesses to collaborate and ensure that children, young people and their families are able to access their community."

Sign Up for a Gloji Weight Loss Course

Gloji have teamed up with Brighton & Hove City Council to “give you free access to today’s best weight loss and healthy lifestyle programmes.” Their groups continue to grow and this September will see them in six venues across the city of Brighton & Hove. There are still some places left on their free group management sessions. You can choose which location suits you best.

Gloji are there to help regardless of whether you are trying to lose weight, build healthier habits, or simply feel better. Their weekly groups provide “support, motivation and practical advice.”

Go to their Facebook page for more information.  There's a full list of September courses around the city here. Sign-up by scanning the QR code or give them a call on 0800 054 1190. It could well be your “first step towards healthier habits and lasting change” and Gloji simply love to support you.  Learning disability weight loss support is also provided and several other forms of support.

Neuro Sorts

                             
    

Are you in need of a neurodivergent-friendly cleaning, sorting and home organising service? Roxanne Checkley runs the Brighton & Hove based Neuro Sorts. Roxanne has been diagnosed as having both autism and ADHD. 

How did Neuro Sorts begin?  “I started Neuro Sorts after helping another person with ADHD who had become overwhelmed with cleaning and organising their home. I realised that what was particularly useful wasn’t simply getting the cleaning done, but helping to break overwhelming jobs into manageable steps, working alongside the person and creating practical systems that suited the way their brain actually worked.”

Neuro Sorts can help with:

• Doom piles and clutter
• Deep cleans and room resets
• Sorting clothes, cupboards and belongings
• Organising hobby and craft supplies
• Body doubling and getting started
• Creating simple, realistic organisational systems
• Larger home resets and particularly overwhelming spaces

The emphasis is very much on practical support without judgement or shame. Clients absolutely do not need to tidy before I arrive!  Clean • Sort • Reset • Support, No judgement. Ever means so much to Roxanne.

Current session prices are:

2 hours – £35

3 hours – £45

4 hours – £56

Roxanne also offers  a free 15-minute phone/video chat for anyone who wants to talk through what they need first, and an optional one-hour home planning session for larger or more complex projects. 

Email Roxanne at roxannecheckley@gmail.com or call 07903 715709.  

Her first client Jennie Moloney described Roxanne’s work as “absolutely superb” with a “completely non-judgemental, patient and supportive” approach while being “incredibly efficient.” The client added; “ We managed to get so much done in a relatively short space of time, without the process ever feeling overwhelming.”

The News Centre

Get Your Raffle Tickets Now!

There’s still time to buy tickets for the National Autistic Society raffle. Tickets cost just £1 with ticket bundles available from £5. 

The 61 prizes include a return journey for two people on the Caledonian Sleeper Train with priority access to the Club Car.  Theatre lovers would love to win four tickets to see ‘The Lion King’ at the Lyceum Theatre in London. Then there’s a signed 2025/26 Chelsea FC shirt that has been signed by members of the men’s first team. I wonder how many are still at the club and the number that used to play for the Seagulls

The National Autistic Society believes that “every autistic person deserves to feel understood, supported and included. But too many autistic people still face barriers in everyday life.”

They recognise the problems that families often have when it comes to accessing support. This can lead to children feeling isolated when they are at school. Then there are all the challenges that adults face.  Supporting the National Autistic Society helps them to “provide practical advice, specialist services and national campaigns that work towards real change.”

The money raised from this raffle will help them provide information and guidance to autistic people and families, campaign for improved rights, understanding and inclusion, and support their Parent to Parent service. In addition, it will help them raise awareness and acceptance of autism around the UK . More about them in our sports section.  

Call For More Awareness During PMOS Awareness Month

September is PMOS Awareness Month and that stands for  Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. It is of particular significance for women who have ADHD, many of whom go undiagnosed for decades. Endometriosis UK are using this special month to call for “improved access to education and support.

So just what is PMOS?  It’s a hormone condition that can “affect hair growth, periods, fertility, and mood.” Sadly. Many who need support are receiving delays in getting that important support.

Faye Farthing is the head of communications and campaigns at Endometriosis UK. She commented:  “Despite PMOS being so common, there is still a long way to go to ensuring everyone with the condition gets access to timely care and the right support.”  

There is also the need to ensure that “young people recognise the symptoms so that they can get the help and support they need from a young age, as well as being equipped with the understanding and empathy to support someone they may know in the future with the condition.”

 The head of communications and campaigns said that “Endometriosis UK is proud to have campaigned for menstrual wellbeing to be a mandatory element of primary and secondary school education.”  In order to know what is normal and when they need to get help, they are developing a teachers’ resource pack. 

This will “support the delivery of high-quality menstrual health education in schools.” There will be a “ready-to-use presentation slide deck, along with a range of interactive resources designed to enhance learning and engage students.” A guide for parents, guardians and carers has also been created.

PMOS can also cause problems with cardiovascular health, energy, weight and brain chemistry. All of those affect ADHD. While 1 in 80 women have PMOS, 70% of those who have it remain undiagnosed. Research shows that there is a 43% higher ADHD risk in children who are born to mothers who have PMOS.

For more information go to this story on the Harley Street ADHD website.

Neuro-Affirming Network Campaigning to Reduce Waiting Times

The Neuro-Affirming Network are proving to be an important group in our area. The Neuro Affirming Network is neurodivergent (and diagnosed) owned and staffed. Their mission is to   “make sure that every family has the opportunity to have their individual needs met and become part of the community.” Anna told me how she wants support to be "more accessible" and to "keep our services sustainable for all."

Looking to the future, Anna commented:  "As we move towards an approved alternative provision status across the counties, we are encouraging families to reach out to us to declare their interest in our sessions. 

We are striving to reduce waiting times and ensure that adults are able to access support simultaneously to their children. Unlike other settings, we purposefully make spaces for parents too."

                                  

Rebekah Rose is a contemporary autistic artist who is based in London.  Her work at Rebekah's Art offers a “unique and expressive view of the world through art.”  An open studio event is being held on September 27 at 145 Wentworth Road in London NW11 0RJ.. Rebekah would particularly like members of the autistic community to attend this event. This is a perfect opportunity to explore her collection of original artwork, ceramics, canvases, jewellery, prints and greeting cards, compact mirrors and bags.

This event  runs from 12pm to 8pm. The nearest tube station to the studio is Golders Green on the Northern Line. There will be music and refreshments in a “positively autistic space.”  

The Diagnosis Den

Not a day goes by without me thinking about my diagnosis. Whether it be the moment my first being autistic was mentioned to me to the assessment that led to my diagnosis. Here's some more articles about being diagnosed.

 Reviewing the Situation by Steve Ashfield 

Apologies to Lionel Bart for taking the title of his song from ‘Oliver!’ but it fits this article perfectly even though I’m more Scrooge than Fagin. Ever since I was diagnosed with autism and then ADHD I’ve been continually looking back at my life and trying to make more sense of it. 

Having read many online posts and books in recent months, I know that this isn’t something that just I do.  Many members of our community - especially those given a late diagnosis - can’t help looking back and reviewing the situation.

It still surprises me (and sometimes angers me) that no one ever said those two magic words ‘you’re autistic’ to me. I know that growing up in the 60s and 70s, there wasn’t anywhere near the attention paid to autism and ADHD as there is now in the 2020s.  All that time I struggled at school never led to anyone suggesting that I even be screened for autism, let alone actually be diagnosed with it.  

Then there’s dyspraxia which is something it’s so obvious that I have.  That really has led me to review my past. For example, the fact that I can’t tie my shoelaces up properly. I’ve tried so hard and watched loads of YouTube instruction videos, but I just can’t do it.  I always thought there was some kind of mental block and then I started reading about dyspraxia and the poster had a photo of a young girl struggling to tie up her shoelaces. Boy did that make me think!  

I did a bit more research and just couldn’t stop reviewing the situation. Not being able to throw a ball properly, not being able to ride a bike without crashing to the pavement and then there’s my problem with bottle openers.  

At one time I was the worst barperson in the world. I just couldn’t use the bottle opener they had. It became a running joke as guests bought a bottle of beer for me to try and open. I did manage to do it once, but broke the bottle opener. Eventually, I found one I could use. I went into a real meltdown when that went missing one afternoon. 

It’s just moments like that which have always puzzled me. I used to go onto computer courses and always seemed to finish the task first. Then I’d break the printer.  Why in my life have I been so good at some tasks, but absolutely hopeless at others?   

At school I was top of the class at mental arithmetic. However, then they started teaching us about rotations and translations and asked me to draw graphs leading to my grades going downhill. 

It’s always been noticeable that I have become  obsessed with certain topics. Sport for example, statistics, the 1970s (more about that later in this edition), comics and of course Christmas.  Teachers used to praise me for my ability to drone on about all the champions in boxing and the latest cricket averages. None of them ever considered it might just be an autistic person having a hyperfixation.

It’s always been noticeable that I have become  obsessed with certain topics. Sport for example, statistics, the 1970s (more about that later in this edition), comics and of course Christmas.  Teachers used to praise me for my ability to drone on about all the champions in boxing and the latest cricket averages. None of them ever considered it might just be an autistic person having a hyperfixation. 

It’s the same with my ADHD because that now seems so obvious to me. Work is so difficult because I just can’t fully concentrate on the task in hand. While I’ve been writing this article, I’ve stopped several times to check emails, look at the stats for this blog and watch WWE on my other laptop. I wouldn’t last long in an office, that's for sure. 

I can’t help wondering what my life would have been like if someone had told me of my neurodivergency way back in my past.  

As you will read in our mental health special due out at the end of September, I didn’t speak to anyone about that subject until I was 34. Years of struggling with my mental health, but it could have been so different if someone had told me I had autism, ADHD and dyspraxia. I look now at the help that people can receive whether it be from support/social groups or charities. 

How would my life have been if I’d had access to those in the past. They have given me great help since my diagnosis and I’m truly grateful for that.  In a way it’s like the situation that older members of the LGBTQ+ community face. They look back at growing up perhaps even when being homosexual in this country wasn’t legal. Then they look at the opportunities members of the community have in 2026 and can’t help being jealous of them. 

I can't change anything can I? I'll have to live with the fact I had to wait until I was nearly 65 before someone did tell me I was autistic and a few more weeks to find out about my ADHD. 

Wasted years to be honest, even the book I had published about my struggles with an indwelling catheter failed to mention that I went through all of that without knowing I was autistic.  To think, if it hadn't been for my heart attack last year and subsequently seeing a mental health practitioner who became the first person to ever mention autism to me, my life would be so different. There certainly wouldn't be THE MAG that is for sure.  

The Women's Late Diagnosis Club by Emma Charlton

We’ll be having plenty of coverage in ‘The Diagnosis Den’ this and next month. This is a new book from Emma Charlton and as you can guess from its title, the author is another person who had to wait a fair while to be diagnosed.

It ties in so well with my ‘Reviewing the Situation’ article you’ve just been reading, but in a lot more depth. Emma wasn’t diagnosed with autism until her early fifties and just as I’ve experienced, there’s been a lot of reflection since that diagnosis.

Emma tells how so much time had previously been spent struggling to fit in and finding it harder to cope with life than those around her. Just why was that the case? Well, her autism diagnosis has supplied plenty of answers. Those who aren’t autistic simply don’t realise how dramatic a diagnosis can be for those who receive it.

Emma felt that she was “simply too sensitive, too anxious, too intense or somehow getting life wrong.” Her autism diagnosis has seen her finally get some answers. Her book contains heartfelt stories and practical insights. There’s also a fair share of profound realisation too, Emma writes about what a late diagnosis means to a person and how it gives you a different perspective of what has happened in the past. 

Beginning to understand her life now means that it’s possible “to build a life that truly fits - one with less overwhelm, greater self-compassion and more room to simply be yourself.”

We’ll be reviewing this book in our next edition. There will also be an interview with Emma herself. Her book can be purchased/ordered at Waterstones and other online sites.

BBC documentary seeking autistic individuals with recent diagnosis

Emma Parsons is a  TV Producer who is looking for people to appear in a BBC documentary about autism. Who can take part? Emma says: "We are looking for people who are happy to share their story of a recent diagnosis of autism after watching or reading something in the media about autism that made them think that sounds like me." If you are interested in this, please email her at emma.parsons.ext@bbc.co.uk.

Chloe Hughes Study

 In our special mental health edition, I have an article that means a lot to me. It's about when we need the most help. Is it when we are first told that being autistic is a possibility or when the diagnosis finally comes along.  Chloe Hughes tells us here about a study she is carrying out on the subject of autsm assessment.

"I am currently completing my Psychology of Education Master’s dissertation at the University of Manchester and I am looking for parents/carers of children who are currently waiting for an autism assessment or have been diagnosed in the past year to take part in my research.

The study explores parents’ experiences of their child’s emotions and emotion regulation during the waiting period, and how this may influence everyday life at home and in school.

There are no right or wrong answers, and you do not need to have any specialist knowledge. Your experiences and perspectives are what matter.

The interview would involve a relaxed online conversation via Microsoft Teams and would take approximately 30-40 minutes. Everything shared would be treated confidentially and anonymised.

If you are interested in taking part, or would like to find out more information, please feel free to  send me a private message on Facebook. I would be extremely grateful for any support in helping me reach families who may be interested.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for considering supporting my research.

Diagnosed with ADHD… now what?  By Rachael Anne Small from Unmasking Together Sussex

Something I keep seeing over and over — adults finally getting their diagnosis and then being left thinking… “Okay… so what am I actually supposed to do now?” (This was definitely the case for me).

So I've created another little FREE guide. A starting point for making sense of late diagnosis, looking back with new eyes and working out what you might need next... Not 100 pages just time to browse over a cuppa 

The Gift of Finding out Later By Benna McCartney

I got my diagnosis later in life, and if you'd told me beforehand what that would end up meaning to me, I don't think I'd have believed you. I thought it might explain a few things, but what it actually did was rearrange how I understood every single year that came before it.

The moment that sticks with me most isn't the appointment itself, it's what happened after. A kind of exhale I didn't know I'd been holding for decades. Because the story I'd been telling myself, quietly and relentlessly, was that I was completely broken. Too much, not enough, always slightly out of step with everyone else and never quite sure why. 

Late diagnosis didn't hand me a diagnosis so much as it handed me permission to stop believing that story. Finally I wasn't broken, but was actually working with a different operating system, and nobody had ever handed me the manual.

Once that landed, everything else started to shift. I began to understand why certain environments left me wrung out while others left me buzzing with energy. Why some conversations felt like trying to translate a language I'd never been taught, while others felt like coming up for air. I started to see the patterns in my own life not as failures but as information, and information you can actually work with.

One of the biggest changes was learning to ask for what I need, out loud, without the apology built into the sentence. That sounds simple, but it really isn't. Years of masking teach you to anticipate everyone else's needs while quietly starving your own, and unlearning that takes real practice. 

But once I started naming my needs plainly, life got a lot more workable. People generally respond well to clarity. It's the guessing games that wear everyone down.

Understanding my own wiring also gave me a much clearer view of everyone else's. I got better at reading the neurodivergent people in my life, at recognising when someone was masking, overwhelmed, or just wired differently to me rather than being difficult. 

And I got better at understanding neurotypical people too, at seeing that a lot of what once felt like rejection or confusion was simply two different systems trying to communicate without a shared framework. That understanding did something I wasn't expecting - it calmed my nervous system. Less guessing, less bracing for impact, less running background threat detection on every interaction and more capacity to actually be present.

I'll also say this plainly, because I think it matters and it doesn't get talked about enough. A lot of late diagnosed people are carrying complex trauma alongside their neurodivergence, myself included. 

Decades of being misread, mislabelled, and told that you're the problem will do that to a nervous system. CPTSD and late diagnosed neurodivergence often travel together, and untangling the two, working out what's wiring and what's wound, has been some of the most important work I've done. Neither one cancels the other out and both deserve care.

Twenty two years into coaching, this is the work I keep coming back to. It's why I've put together a new course - How to be Neurodivergent AND Happy, built specifically for people who are further along in figuring out their own wiring and want practical, grounded support with what comes next. Ten self paced modules, priced at a straightforward £35, no complicated tiers or hoops to jump through. It's the resource I wish someone had handed me on the way out of that first appointment.

If any of this sounds familiar, I want you to know there's nothing wrong with you. There never was. You were just running on different hardware, and it's never too late to learn how it works.

You can find out more about the course and my coaching work on my website.  

LGBTQ+ Section  

Brighton Dyke Pride 2026

On Saturday September 5, it’s  Brighton’s very first Dyke Pride. It’s being held between 1pm and 8pm in St Ann’s Wells Park. This is an event a little bit more like the Prides that used to be held back in the day and it won’t cost you a fortune to attend as admission is free, though donations are welcomed.

The organisers have set out to create an event that is “fully trans-inclusive, accessible, cross-generational, and community-owned.” It will be the chance for those attending to be “visible, safe and celebrate dykery in all its forms.

There will be guest speakers, drag kings and other performers, iconic queer DJs, line dancing, chill-out spaces, food and a market with Brighton Dyke Mart plus crafts and workshops. 

An afterparty is being held at the Ironworks, 30 Cheapside, Brighton, BN1 4GD in collaboration with Dykes on Decs and Crushed. DJs and performers are Luca Perry, Lebby, Puppy Playgrnd and BBYSHAZ.

This gets underway at 10pm running until 3am. Tickets cost from £4 or £9 if you want to give a tip to the performers. There’s also a £1 booking fee. This is for 18+ and tickets are available on this page. 

The venue has step-free access from the west entrance off Somerhill Road. There will be a small team of wellbeing angels on site. Also there will be a small welfare tent which will be staffed by a medic and a mental health practitioner. 

The Ledward Centre at 14a Jubilee Street is open again on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays with an excellent cafe. They also hold community events and The Clare Project have weekly meetings of their Neurodivergent Group there every Monday between 2.30 and 4.30pm. On Sundays, the Village Metropolitan Church (MCC) holds a service there from 6pm.  

There's a meeting of the Brighton Neurodivergent Community's LGBTQ+ Group at the Camelford Arms on Friday September 4 from 6pm to 9pm. This is for the "queer or questioning members" of their group and a chance to "discuss topics related to identity or connect with like-minded people." You have to be a neurodivergent adult aged between 18 and 40 years of age to attend this. 

The Clare Project are currently looking for people to be trustees of their charity. This is for “Trans, non-binary, gender diverse and/or intersex adults ages 18+.” 

No prior trustee experience is required and expenses are covered. The time commitment required is around three hours a month. The meetings are held online, though there are opportunities for in-person ones in Brighton & Hove and Sussex. The Clare Project says that this position is “great for CV building.”

It is an unpaid voluntary role and to apply you need to email  recruitment@clareproject.org.uk for a “low-pressure introductory chat with a current trustee or staff member.” 

The Clare Project holds weekly Drop-ins every Tuesday. At present, they are held at Dorset Gardens but from the 15th will be moving to the Ledward Centre.

 MindOut: LGBTQ Mental Health Support

MindOut is a mental health service run by and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and queer (LGBTQ) people. We work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all LGBTQ communities and to make mental health a community concern.

They provide safe, inclusive, and confidential support for LGBTQ people through advocacy (Brighton & Hove only), peer support groups, online live chat, telephone befriending and low cost counselling. For more information go to their website, call 0300 772 9855 or email info@mindout.org.uk.  

The Next Generation

Drama Queens Take to the Stage

DQ Youth Theatre is led by Dramatherapist and creative practitioner Sally Orr. It was established 21 years ago as Drama Queens Brighton. Sally tells us more about DQ Youth Club.

"Our drama clubs aim to be safe, nurturing spaces where young people can explore and experiment.

We run two youth theatres on Thursday evenings at Cardinal Newman School on the Upper Drive at their small working theatre venue for ages 10-16 and 16-20.

We are  neurodivergent-led, and have high attendance from neurodivergent children and young people, meaning we understand and have lived experience of the barriers and needs of young people who want to access drama and acting, but might struggle.We can directly relate to how our young people feel about certain obstacles in their life and the drama, making for a more enriched experience.

                                                Previous production of Macbeth

 In fact, we are just in the middle of a project all about this, 'Finding your Voice' funded by the Arts Council. This project explores what it means to be able to express yourself, find ways to do this and meet other like minded people, and also about accepting differences and similarities. 

So far we have produced two plays which explored the above themes and were performed at Cardinal Newman School and the Lantern Theatre in Brighton. We received great feedback from our audience members as well as reflections from the young people in our groups about how the themes affected them, what it made them think about, and what they would like to do next.

Our project runs until December 2026, and there is still lots of time for new people to be involved. After this ends, we will see what's next, but always keeping our group members at the very centre of the decision making.

Our collaborative approach starts with the individual. Our young people decide how much, or how little they want to be involved in our sessions/performances. We have a ‘no pressure to perform’ policy, which means there's always something for a young person to do within the creative process, besides being up on stage including being an audience member, assisting with costume, tech, writing and even directing!

We have free trials and subsidies available for people who need it. Our teachers and facilitators are all actors, writers and theatre makers.

Contact info@dramaqueens.biz or text/call Sally Orr 07952844537. For up to date info on all news and events please sign up for the newsletter.

Check out our social media on Instagram -  DQBrighton and Facebook. 

A Unique Trip to the Movies
 

Every month we seem to be covering new areas, so how about some news of sensory friendly cinema events at the Depot in Lewes.

This is a weekend of “inclusive, interactive and immersive cinema screenings for neurodiverse families and friends to enjoy together!”

The weekend is being presented by award-winning Different Planet Arts. They were the winners of the Children and Young People Now Play Award in 2022. The event is described as “a beautifully curated programme of films and animations based around the natural world, delivered in an innovative way. 

They are SEND inclusive and “immersive, interactive and fun!” This really is a unique new way as specialist performers do their very best “bringing stories to life through sensory moments, live music, activities, movement and play!”

You can’t help but be intrigued and curious to see just what “secret cinema meets autism friendly relaxed cinema meets sensory cinema.”

The movies that are being shown can be enjoyed by all ages, but especially those aged 5-11 years. The publicity material says it’s time to “get your creature costumes on, and come sing, dance and make some noise with us!”

On arrival, the friendly team of performers will greet you. A bag of interactive sensory surprises will be given to you. After being shown around the space, you will have time to get yourself used to the environment. There’ll be music, puppetry and a playful welcome too. Then it’s time to go to the screening room to prepare yourself for the upcoming performance. There’ll be plenty of “music, interaction and sensory activities.”

While the films are being shown, those attending will “become part of the adventures” as each movie is explored through sensory movements. The cinema will be transformed into “a Wild World quest, across land, sea and mountains.” There are several short films being shown and you’ll love Ink the Octopus.

There’s more puppets, live music, props and special effects all courtesy of the Different Planet Arts’ team of specialist facilitators, musicians and performers. It all sounds fascinating doesn’t it?

The screenings take place on Saturday September 19 and Sunday December 20. Later in the year, there are also screenings on Saturday December 12 and Sunday December 13. They run from 10:30am to 12:35pm.

Audiences will be limited to 30 people. That means there will be plenty of room for those attending to move around.  There’ll also be adjusted lighting and sound and an “easy-going attitude and making noise. Entrances and exits will be monitored by staff who have plenty of experience of hosting these relaxed cinema events. The venue also has a designated breakout space if you want to chill. 

The venue is situated  on  Pinwell Road, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2JS at the bottom of Station Street, next to Lewes railway station.

DIfferent Planet Arts produces “unique sensory theatre and immersive arts experiences and delivers Inclusive Play Skills Training, for children and young people with complex disabilities.” They work in arts centres, schools, hospitals, theatres and community settings. More about them in our parenting and young people specials.

Get Ready to Enter the Rock House

Carousel hold their next Rock House event on Monday September 14 from 7-9.30pm at The Green Door Store at 4 Trafalgar Arches, Brighton, BN1 4FQ. The excellent news is that Rock House has been nominated in the Outstanding Project Award category in the Youth Music Awards. 

The next Blue Camel Club is being held on Tuesday November 3 at the Brighton Dome Corn Exchange. This takes place from 6pm to 10pm and it being November, the theme is fireworks, lights and illumination. The plan is for you to “come dressed to glow.” It’ll be a night  of “glow sticks, glow in the dark colours and your brightest outfit.”

This is the biggest and best learning disability club night that the South Coast has. There will be learning disabled performers and DJs from all over the UK. Tickets cost £6 with carers being admitted free.

The next meeting of the Clare Projects Neurodivergent Group is on Monday September 7 from 2:30pm to 4:30pm at the Ledward Centre.  For full details of what the Clare Project are doing in September, go to this Instagram post.  

Free Sensory Storytelling Classes in Sussex‍ from Bertie and Bow Entertainment

Ria and Char are professional actors who have years of experience in children’s theatre. Bertie and Bow Entertainment hold Make & Play sessions where those attending can go on a “storytelling adventure.”  

This is for children aged 0-5 and is packed with “textures to feel, scents to smell, music to move to, sounds to explore, and crafts to create.” You can even make your own puppet and “bring them to life.”

Booking is essential to secure your place at their events.

It's Christmas.....Well Nearly

A Christmas Carol

I must have lost count of how many different versions of ‘A Christmas Carol’ that I’ve seen or heard. The Jim Dale narration of the story is a particular favourite of mine. There are so many sitcoms for example that have based a seasonal episode on this classic Charles Dickens show. 

It’s also very popular as a stage show and from December 3-5 it is being performed by 1:4:9 Productions at the Brentwood Theatre. It’s been adapted for the stage by Kathryn Waters and a cast member is Ed Shearer.

You may remember Ed from Autistic Pride and the recent Autistic Mental Health Conference. He also runs Neurodivergent Joy.  Ed speaks so honestly about his life and he’s continuing to do so during rehearsals for this show. 

Writing on Facebook this week, he commented: “So tonight I attended my first AmDram AGM, in a few years. It’s amazing to be part of this, they’ve supported me through tough times. I can feel my self confidence returning.” More from Ed in the lead-up to this Christmas classic

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An Autistic Sporting Life

Into the Inclusion Room I Go by Steve Ashfield

For half a century I attended football matches without a clue that I had autism and ADHD. I stood on terraces in all kinds of weather, but in recent years it has become a real struggle. After my diagnosis. I began to realise why I’d struggled with the noise and often found it difficult to concentrate on the games.  I write football previews for a living, but barely ever go to any matches, that needs to change and I believe I’ve found the answer.

On August 27, I went to the Amex to watch Brighton and Hove Albion play Tromso in the Conference League. I had arranged to watch the match from the inclusion room, so what was the experience like and how does it help members of our community?

Getting to the ground wasn’t too difficult despite it being away from the city centre. As I walked towards the stadium  I did start to get a bit more nervous with so many fans making their way to the Amex. I had to have a bit of a giggle to myself when I heard Robbie Williams  ‘Rock DJ’ being played. One autistic person listening to another, neither of whom knew of their status at the start of the year.

As has often been the case in over 50 years going to football matches, finding the right entrance wasn’t the easiest of tasks. ‘Don’t give up Steve, you’ll get it sorted’ I was saying to myself. The staff at the Amex are so helpful and I was shown to the right entrance and into the lift up to the floor where the inclusion room is.  I don’t think I’ve ever been in a lift at a football ground, another first.

I finally arrived at the inclusion room and was so impressed with the help given to me by Kristy and Anna. I was made to feel so welcome and everything was explained to me. Comfortable seats both in and outside the inclusion room were so much better than some I’ve sat in over the years.

I remember travelling up to Maine Road to see Southampton play Manchester City. When I got there, my seat had a puddle in it, another rainy day in Manchester.

In addition to the comfortable seating, there are plenty of toys to play with for the younger supporters. There’s a quiet room that you can go into if it all gets a bit too much for you. You can watch Sky Sports on a big screen before the game and then the actual match. So handy for watching replays if the goals are scored at the other end of the pitch.

I did have to go downstairs to get a drink. That didn’t last long though as I just found it so uncomfortable being in a seemingly never moving queue with so many fans around.  I went back to the inclusion room and someone brought me a diet coke. They are looking at introducing somewhere a bit nearer to the inclusion room where food and drinks can be purchased.

It was an enjoyable game, well any 4-0 home win is and that was the second in a row for the Seagulls. The stats mad part of my brain was wondering if Brighton had ever won their first two home competitive games of the season 4-0.

It was a great experience watching the match in the inclusion room. Hopefully my busy schedule will allow me to go to a few more games this season. When the game was over and it was time to go home I left the inclusion room and the music was still being played loudly as the fans made their way home. In just a few seconds I knew that coping with that all night would have been so difficult, thank heavens that the Amex has an inclusion room.

The Inclusion Room is named after Charlie Perry with a special screen in the room telling everyone about him. He was autistic and sadly passed away in 2017 when just 16 years of age. Charlie loved watching the Seagulls and his grandfather Martin Perry worked for the club for 24 years before retiring.  

To be able to use the inclusion room, you need to fill in this form. A video about the inclusion room can be seen on YouTube.

Brighton and Hove Albion: Stand or Fall

2026 is an important year for Brighton and Hove Albion. It is the 125th anniversary of the formation of the club. To celebrate this mark, there's a special exhibition at Brighton Museum and Galleries. It's a celebration that came close to not happening at all.

Like many clubs, the Seagulls have faced many financial problems in their history. The battle to stay alive has often been as fierce off the pitch as on it.  Looking around this exhibition, there are of course celebrations of the successes that Brighton have had in the past. There's trips to Wembley and of course their first European campaign.

On the flip side though, there are memories aplenty of the dark days when the club nearly folded. The loss of the Goldstone Ground is well documented along with the campaign to try and save their orginal stadium. There's the day the Seagulls had a vital away trip to Downing Street and even the Valentine's card sent to John Prescott.

                                 

I was born in Kettering and have supported my home town for over 55 years. I didn't realise how much the Poppies had in common with the Seagulls. Kettering also lost their beloved ground and seeing what happened to the Goldstone brought back memories of when the Rockingham Road ground was bulldozed and turned into flats.

There are so many memories of Brighton and Hove Albion in this exhibition. Past programmes, the songs, the memories and superstitions of the fans and of course the top players of the past and present.

I couldn't see anything about two famous people, Sir Norman Wisdom and Brian Clough who managed Brighton to that appalling 8-2 home loss to Bristol Rovers at the Goldstone. Probably best to forget that one.

                              

 Have a Ball with Grace Eyre

The football season is underway, not that there was much of a gap between the last one and this new campaign. Grace Eyre resumes their inclusive football sessions for adults with a learning disability and autism  in Bognor (we’re getting further and further along the coast aren’t we?) and are being held every Friday from September 4.

The sessions  take place between 10:30 and 11:30am at Bognor Regis Town FC, Nyewood Lane, Bognor Regis  There’s a qualified coach in charge of the sessions and no grass stains as you will be playing on an outdoor 3G pitch. The sessions cost £5 a week and this must be paid in advance.

 They are described as a great chance to “sharpen your skills, make new friends and be part of the action.” If 1-1 support is required, you must bring carer support with you. Find out more on their website.

  

Still Time to Sign Up for Run for Autism

Run for Autism is a campaign led by charity Autism Initiatives Group, which works to improve the lives of autistic people and their families across the UK. The organisation was founded in the 1970s by Pat Minshull, a dedicated mother of a child with autism. Four years ago, the charity proudly celebrated its 50th Anniversary. 

The target is to complete 40k in the month of October. This will help raise valuable funds for autistic people and their families. This has helped “encourage the pursuit of specialised interests, promote physical activity and help autistic adults and children to socialise in supportive communities.”

For more information, or to sign up visit www.runforautism.co.uk

Will Ospreay Wins the AEW World Title

Sunday August 31 was a massive day for American wrestling company AEW and British wrestler Will Ospreay. AEW held All-In at Wembley Stadium and Ospreay won their world title in the main event.

It’s a massive achievement for WIll who is autistic, has ADHD and is also dyslexic. Also, his win over defending champion Kenny Omega was even more special after being out for several months due to injury. No wonder he broke down in tears at the post show media scrum.

Ospreay has talked openly about his diagnoses, even in promos at wrestling shows. When interviewed by Josh Martinez, the pro wrestler said that he was grateful for his diagnosis and described them as “kind of a weight off my shoulders.”

His diagnosis came at the age of 27 and allowed him to understand his past and “find out what my triggers were whenever I got overstimulated.” That knowledge has allowed him to “figure out how to counterbalance it.”

What didn’t thrill him was the fact some of his close friends told him they weren’t too surprised to be told the news. He now uses the experiences that he has had in his life to help younger people deal with their lives.

Will says that “I never want to be front and centre of these situations,” but feels that it is “so cool” that there are “young boys now that are coming up to me trying to live out somewhat of their dreams.”  He takes it with “great pride and great responsibility” and hopes he “doesn’t let anybody down when I do any of this.”

It’s not such good news in the ring for Sol Ruca who has ADHD. We wrote about the WWE star in the first MAG EXTRA when she was the Intercontinental champion. Sadly, Sol has since lost the title to Raquel Rodriguez. This Monday saw her have a rematch for the title, but outside interference by other members of the Judgement Day and then Lyra Valkyria cost her the match, A feud with Valkyria (who hails from Ireland) is going to keep Sol busy for the next few weeks.

100 Miles in October

It’s a busy time at the National Autistic Society. Elsewhere in this edition, we have news about their raffle. Now we can tell you about their ‘100 miles in October’ project. This challenges you to complete 100 miles during the month and it can be achieved by walking, cycling, whatever way you wish. You can register now and receive a free T-shirt and performance tracker. Other exciting fundraising rewards can also be received.  

Hyperfixation of the Month  - You Can't Beat the 1970s by Steve Ashfield 

The three day-week, a massacre at the Olympics, Jimmy Savile on telly,England crap in the World Cup and the rise of Maggie Thatcher. Those all happened in the 1970s, but for me it’s still the best decade ever.

Yes, it’s another of my hyperfixations and there’s still a few more to come.  Although I was born in the early 1960s, it was the 1970s that I am so obsessed with. I can't really remember that much about the 60s and I was too young to indulge in what most people were doing in that decade. England won the World Cup but I haven’t got a single memory of that momentous day.

Although I still write football previews for my paid job (shock horror I don’t spend all day writing THE MAG), I can name more players from the 1970s than the current day. I long for the days when we had Keegan, Bremner, Royle, McLintock and Chivers.

The 1970s was also when I first became obsessed with comics. I couldn’t wait for the next Score N Roar or Sparky to come out. More about that in the previous MAG EXTRA.  Those 1970s comics still mean the world to me.

Then of course there’s the music of that wonderful decade. Sorry Tony Blackburn but the best decade ever is not the 1960s, it’s the decade that followed and by a country mile as far as I’m concerned.

The 1970s had everything from Abba to the Sex Pistols, Pink Floyd to Queen and The Wombles to The Smurfs. The charts really meant something in those days and that must be why I’m forever watching episodes of Top of the Pops. I even turn them into mp3s to listen to while I’m out and about.

I live for Johnnie Walker presenting ‘Sounds of the Seventies.’ Sadly, he’s no longer with us but I have over 400  episodes to keep me entertained.

As for television programmes, they remain pure heaven for me. Who needs the 21st century when I can be watching ‘Father Dear Father,’ ‘Man About the House’ and ‘Till Death Us Do Part.’  Yes folks, an article on my hyperfixation on sitcoms is out in October, but not the ones I’ve just mentioned.but some rather obscure ones.  That will include 'Trouble in Mind' and 'Alcock and Gander,'  both of which featured the brilliant Richard O'Sullivan (as did 'Man About the House') who sadly passed away this week.

Of course the 1970s were very politically correct, but they were funnier than what we have these days. If all those racist and sexist comments were meant to be offensive I’d condemn that, but the bigots like Alf Garnett and Eddie Booth always lost in the end.

Is my love of the 1970s another case of me living in the past?  Is it just another obsession that becomes more like work than a hobby?  It’s a mixed response to both questions. I just love all things 1970s and with YouTube and ok around, there’s always plenty of ammunition to keep me busy. 

Now if you’ll excuse me, another edition of Top of the Pops from 1978 has just been put on YouTube, time for some Frankie Valli and Tina Charles.

An Autistic Life Online

East Sussex Education (& EHCP) Experiences Support

This is a private Facebook group for parent carers in East Sussex that allows them to access information and support on “any matter relating to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) plus appropriate access to education. The hope is that by sharing experiences members will be able to “gain a greater insight into ways to better tackle the road ahead for each of us.”

Neurodivergent Sussex has just launched their new private CAYA WhatsApp community. Simply send them a private message on their Facebook group to join up. All they require is your name, phone number and the first part of your postcode. This WhatsApp community will remain private to ensure it “remains a space for local people who genuinely want to be part of the CAYA community.” This includes families, supporters and others who want to be part of Neurodivergent Sussex and the great work they do.

Coming Soon to THE MAG

• THE MAG SUPPORT CENTRE
• THE MAG BUSINESS CENTRE
• THE MAG MENTAL HEALTH SPECIAL
• THE MAG PARENTS AND YOUNG PEOPLE SPECIAL