The core remit of ASH-A is to provide facilitated social groups for low-support needs autistic people, especially adults. This group is often overlooked in existing services. While there is significant support available for autistic children and for those with more extensive needs, autistic adults with lower support needs frequently fall through the cracks. ASH-A exists to fill that gap - creating a welcoming, understanding space for autistic adults who may not qualify for other forms of support but still face isolation, exclusion, and a lack of appropriate provision.
We are especially committed to supporting younger autistic adults as they transition from school into adult life - a time when structured support often falls away, leaving many without the social connections and communitz they need to thrive.
Our service tries to mitigate loneliness and work against learned helplessness by emphasising a belief in competence. This in turn has an effect on user mental health, with expectations of lowered (although not absent) rates of depression and social anxiety. In addition, by providing an autistic appropriate location to develop and practice social skills, our groups increase well-being and improve life outcomes, both social and workplace.
We have an accredited psychologist with relevant training that serves as a mental health first aid point for autistic people who need a trustworthy person to engage with regarding their mental health. The social groups are designed to be affirming of an individual’s choice (something many autistic people can struggle with), and are user led.