Autism Awareness Month April 2025

News - 9 April 2025

Every April, World Autism Acceptance Month provides an important opportunity to celebrate, understand, and support autistic people within our communities. Originally established by the National Autistic Society, the month encourages greater acceptance of autistic people and aims to create a society where everyone feels included and valued.

What is Autism? 

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Autistic people may experience differences in communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and thinking styles. 

For more information What is Autism please click here 

National Autistic Society

 

What Does Being on the Autism Spectrum Mean? 

Autism is described as a "spectrum" condition because it affects people in very different ways. Some autistic people may need daily support, while others live independently but still face hidden challenges. 

Autism is not a learning disability or a mental health condition — however, some autistic people may also have additional needs, such as a learning disability or anxiety. 

 

Autism in the UK – The Current Picture 

Over 700,000 autistic adults and children live in the UK — that’s more than 1 in 100 people. Despite growing awareness, many autistic people still face barriers to inclusion and support. 

These figures highlight why autism acceptance, better understanding, and access to tailored support is vital. 

 

 

Support for Autistic People in Herefordshire 

There is a range of support and resources available locally for autistic people and their families in Herefordshire. 

 

National Autistic Society – Herefordshire Branch 

NAS Herefordshire provides peer support, local information, and social opportunities for autistic people and their families. They organise meetups, information sessions, and a safe space for connection. 

Find more information click here: nas-herefordshire.co.uk 

 

Herefordshire Autism Partnership 

This partnership brings together autistic people, families, health and social care providers to improve local services and promote inclusion in Herefordshire. 

Find more information click here: Herefordshire Autism Partnership 

 

Talk Community – Autism Resources 

Talk Community offers information about autism, local services, diagnosis pathways, and how to access support in Herefordshire. 

Find more information click here: Talk Community Autism Resources 

 

Herefordshire SEND 

For families with children or young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the Local Offer provides details of education, health and care services available across Herefordshire. 

Find more information click here: SEND Support 

 

HANDS Hub (Herefordshire Additional Needs Directory & Support) 

The HANDS Hub provides a directory of local services and groups supporting children and young people with additional needs, including autism. 

Find more information click here: HANDS Hub 

 

Autism Support from Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System (HWICS) 

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Integrated Care System provides information, advice, and support for autistic people of all ages, their families, and carers. 

Find more information click here: HWICS Autism Support 

 

NHS Information on Autism 

For general health information about autism, symptoms, diagnosis and available treatments, visit: 

Find more information click here: NHS Autism Information 

 

 

Advice and information

If you would like to tell us more about your experiences of support and healthcare services for people with Autism so that we can help to improve services locally please click below to have your say.  

Do you or a family member need advice and information about eating disorder services? Or if would like to share your experiences with us call the team on 01432 277044 or go online.

Have Your Say

You might also be interested in

Young girl having eye test

Looking After Your Eyes: Eye Health

Our eyes are one of the most vital organs, helping us navigate the world around us. But eye health is often overlooked—until a problem arises. Whether it’s regular check-ups, managing long-term conditions like glaucoma, or getting help in an emergency, knowing where to turn is key.
Why Eye Health Matters

Many eye conditions develop slowly, meaning symptoms might not be noticeable straight away. Regular eye tests can help spot early signs of problems like cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy—often before they start to affect your vision. Early detection can make all the difference in treatment and outcomes.

Even if you think your vision is fine, it's recommended that adults have an eye test every two years. Children and people over 60, or those with certain medical conditions, may need more frequent checks.

Common Signs You Shouldn't Ignore:
-Sudden changes in vision
-Blurred or double vision
-Persistent eye pain or redness
-Seeing floaters or flashes
-Headaches linked to eye strain

If you experience any of these, it’s best to seek advice promptly.
Advice and Information
Woman looking lonely

Understanding Loneliness: Loneliness in Herefordshire

Loneliness is a universal experience—something nearly everyone encounters at some stage in life. Yet, despite its prevalence, it often remains unspoken.
At Healthwatch Herefordshire, we recognise the importance of addressing loneliness from the community and individual perspective, which we hope to gain through our project: Understanding Loneliness.
Why This Project Matters

Loneliness can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. It can stem from various factors, such as language barriers, cultural differences, relationship changes, or physical and digital disconnection. Through this project, we are exploring loneliness in depth, identify its causes, and seek effective ways to combat it.

News
Woman sat anxiously on the edge of her bed

NO MORE Week 2025: Taking a Stand Against Domestic Abuse

NO MORE Week 2025 is an international campaign dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action to prevent domestic abuse and sexual violence. This annual event brings together individuals, organisations, and communities to say NO MORE to domestic abuse and ensure that those affected can access the support they need.


In Herefordshire, we stand in solidarity with this movement by providing vital information on domestic abuse, its impact, and where to seek help. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, there are services available to support you.
News