Exploring my identity: A support group for autistic older teens and young adults aged 16-18 A safe space for autistic older teens and young adults aged 16-18 to meet like-minded people and share their life experiences. Facilitators will provide an opportunity for participants to deconstruct ableist views and negative stigmatised approaches to thinking around Autism. This is a neuro-affirmative group, that will enable participants to develop a more positive view of their own differences or disabilities. Participants may enjoy developing ideas and strategies for their own self advocacy, to meet their own needs in relationships, training and in the education setting.

This is a neuro-affirmative group, that will enable participants to explore what it means for them to be autistic and help develop a more positive view of their own differences or disabilities. Participants may enjoy developing ideas and strategies for their own self advocacy, to meet their own needs in relationships, in the education setting and when navigating life transitions.

This group also aims to provide a community for older teens and young adults to support and learn from one another, whilst gaining new insights on how to navigate challenges and life experiences as neurodivergent adults. Participants may take this opportunity to build connections and friendships with like minded people, that could support them on their onward journey.

Alongside this young person's support group, parents/family members will be invited to attend a support group at our offices, running at the same time. This is an opportunity for parents and families to share their experiences, ideas, and strategies that have been successful for them in the past. Cost of the support group is included in the overall cost.

This group support programme is a closed group that is ongoing for 6 weeks, in-person, at Insights Clinic. It is not a drop-in group, participants should be committed to attending for the six sessions. In-person participation is encouraged where possible and appropriate. Interested participants and/or parents or caregivers can request to be contacted by the group facilitators for a brief screening in a format that meets their needs.