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For us, autism is... a wonderful part of who are Autistic staff and students are and we want to make sure our department is sensory-inclusive! To support our Autistic and Neurodivergent staff and students in 10 West, we recently introduced these Nook pods so we have some restorative spaces in our department for those who might need a quiet space to rest.

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I feel truly blessed to have a friend with autism, someone whose unique way of seeing the world fills my life with so much meaning. They have this incredible ability to notice and cherish every detail about me—things I didn’t even realize mattered. Autism is such a beautiful gift, a way of experiencing life with deep care and attention to the things that often go unnoticed.

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For me, autism is never-ending (but always changing) special interests... current fixation is writing a novel...

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A piece of paper with typed text and a notebook with writing in and pen on top.

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For me autism is... absolutely not understood by schools.

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For me Autism is … a constant jumble of thoughts and emotions. I find craft and art are ways to calm my mind. Recently I completed this Patchwork rainbow - a paper collage in rainbow colours.

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A photograph of a paper collage in rainbow colours

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For me, autism is having a unique view of the world. I think more people should be aware of how autism is not just one set of consistent traits, but rather an enormous spectrum describing hundreds of different unique traits.

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For me Autism represents genuine kindness, a joyful community, and the ability to approach challenges from new perspectives. It means progressing at your own pace and celebrating every achievement, no matter how small. Autism embodies friendship and fosters a unique sense of belonging. Since our tennis community welcomed members of the autistic community, we have experienced tremendous growth. We feel fortunate to know them, and I have become a better person for having them as part of my community.

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A photograph of a group of people on a tennis court who are part of a tennis community

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For me, autism is... a daily challenge. I wouldn't change my brain. It is part of who I am, and there are brilliant aspects to how I think. However, it makes parts of every day difficult. Celebrating autism can't just be about the 'good' parts. The 'how autistic people contribute to a vibrant and diverse community' part. It is true but too often it comes at the expense of my own energy and wellbeing. Autism should be celebrated without brushing the hard parts under the rug. I want to be celebrated for my problem solving skills without being punished for the rest or break from socialising my brain requires afterwards. This is why understanding and support are crucial in the journey of an autistic individual.