Autism acceptance benefits us all

Autism acceptance isn’t about supporting one group at the expense of another - it’s about creating a world where everyone thrives.

When we design schools, workplaces, and communities that support autistic people, we’re not just accommodating differences - we’re unlocking potential that benefits us all.

Think dropped curbs. Subtitles. Text messages.
All designed for specific needs. All universally beneficial.

Today I’m talking about:

• Info: Creating a world that works for everyone

• Tips: Eight ways you can make a difference

• Recommendations: Two brilliant social media accounts to follow, and a podcast episode

1. Creating a world that works for everyone

Autism inclusion isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a necessity.

But right now, the reality looks like this:

• 80% of autistic people experience mental health challenges.

• Just 26% of autistic pupils feel happy at school.

• Only 30% of autistic adults are in any form of employment.

To build a truly inclusive world, we have to rethink the structures, assumptions, and values that define what’s considered “normal.”

And when we do, we all benefit.

As April is Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month, now is the perfect time to give this the focus it deserves.

So how can we all play our part this month, and beyond?

2. Eight ways you can make a difference

• Rethink professionalism.
  Stop equating polished speech and eye contact with competence. Start valuing different communication styles, directness, and honesty.

• Stop expecting “normal” and start embracing difference.
  Challenge your own assumptions about what productivity, behaviour, and communication “should” look like.

• Audit your environment.
  Whether you’re in a school, office, or community space - ask: Is this place overwhelming? Is it accessible? Are there quiet zones, flexible spaces, clear signage?

• Offer options as the default.
  Written or verbal instructions? Camera on or off? Group or solo work? Choice empowers everyone, not just autistic people.

• Design for flexibility, not conformity.
  Give people autonomy over how, when, and where they work or learn. Adapt environments to meet sensory and cognitive needs - not the other way around.

• Speak up when you hear exclusionary views.
  Whether it’s a joke, a comment, or a rigid policy - being a good ally means not staying silent.

• Celebrate and centre autistic voices.
  Share content by autistic creators, support autistic-led organisations, and invite autistic people to lead conversations - not just be guests in them.

• Listen to autistic voices - and act
  Inclusion isn’t meaningful if it’s not informed by the people it’s meant to serve. Nothing about us without us.

3. Recommendations

If you want to learn more, here are a few brilliant accounts to follow on Instagram, and a podcast episode.

• Follow: Ausome Charlie (Instagram)
  Charlie is a brilliant autistic advocate, writer, and speaker who combines lived experience with sharp insight. Her posts are honest, educational, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.

• Follow: muchmuchspectrum (Instagram)
  A colourful, informative feed that tackles myths, explores intersectionality, and makes autistic experiences beautifully visible. Accessible, engaging, and packed with practical takeaways.

• Listen or watch: Aditi Gangrade on the Differing Minds podcast

  Our Kaleidoscope mini podcast series featured Aditi Gangrade from muchmuchspectrum talking about being neurodivergent from an Indian cultural perspective.

Inclusion isn’t a one-way street.

When we design for the edges, we make things better for everyone.

Speak next week!
Jess 😊

PS Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can help:

• Join the waitlist for our next NeuroNavigator programme and become a certified Neurodiversity Champion. Doors open June 2025 for Sept start.

• Want me to speak in your organisation? Head here to book a chat and make a plan.

• Book a FREE Discovery call to chat through how I can support your workplace, your school or your family.