This week, we are supporting World Autism Acceptance Week. Created by the National Autistic Society, the campaign aims to focus on the 700,000 people living with autism in the UK. In today’s article, we discuss the importance of the campaign, why its name has changed and how you can show your support this week.
About World Autism Acceptance Week
World Autism Acceptance Week takes place from the 28th of March to the 3rd of April and is planned around World Autism Awareness Day, which occurs on the 2nd of April. It’s a campaign for everyone to get involved with and participate in different events and activities. 2022 marks the 60th anniversary of the National Autistic Society. You can view the charity's timeline of how they’ve grown over the years on their website.
World Autism Acceptance Week is a global campaign that aims to change attitudes and raise vital funds to support those living with autism. The National Autistic Society wants to create a society that works for autistic people. They believe that no one should be judged for being autistic and have to wait a long time for a potentially life-changing diagnosis along with help and support.
Why is World Autism Awareness Week now called World Autism Acceptance Week?
Based on the feedback the National Autistic Society has received, the campaign has changed its name from World Autism Awareness Week to World Autism Acceptance Week. They believe that we have come a long way in the past 60 years, and by now, most people will have heard of autism. However, not many people understand what it’s like to be autistic, both the strengths you can have and how at times, life can be difficult.
Supporting the campaign
Throughout this week, a range of activities is taking place to support World Autism Acceptance Week and celebrate the National Autistic Society's 60th anniversary. Here’s a list of exciting activities to get involved with:
Super 60 challenge
Christine McGuinness is hosting the Super 60 challenge where you can run, walk, cycle, create art, music or food to the theme of 6, 60, 600 or even push yourself to 600,000. The event is virtual, which allows you to take part at any time in any place. You can find out more about the Super 60 challenge here.
Spectrum Night Walk
At the end of World Autism Acceptance Week, the campaign will be celebrated with Spectrum Night Walks in London and Manchester to raise vital funds to support those with autism. You can choose to walk 5k, 10k or 15k and take part on your own or as a team. The walks will take place on the 2nd of April at 8 pm. Learn more about the Spectrum Night Walks here.
Anne Hegerty’s Spectrum Quiz
One of the legendary Chasers, Anne Hegerty, also known as the Governess from The Chase, has created a spectrum quiz that includes a range of different questions about autism. You can try the quiz and raise some money to help support the creation of a society that works for autistic people. You can download the quiz here.
Information and fundraising pack
The National Autistic Society has created an information and fundraising pack that contains information about World Autism Acceptance Week, guides, resources and the activities taking place this week. You can download your pack here.
Throughout the year, we will be supporting a variety of events. To keep up to date with what we're up to, make sure to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
If you are interested in joining the team at Thornbury Community Services register with us using the form below. Or contact our team on 0333 323 3762.