Hello, 

If you have a child or family member who is going through assessment or who has been diagnosed as autistic, I want you to know that you're not alone. 

It can be a bewildering time, and your emotions may be all over the place. I remember feeling the same way when my children were diagnosed, as I didn't know much about autism at the time. It's okay to feel worried, confused, or, like me, relieved that your concerns are finally being taken seriously. This journey may not always be straightforward, but it can be a rewarding one to travel. 

Initially, I didn't know where to turn for advice and guidance, but two things really helped me:

1. Connecting with other parents who held my hand and helped me understand that I wasn't alone. They also helped me navigate the often complex systems meant to support families like ours.
2. Understanding more about autism and what being autistic might mean for my children was incredibly empowering. Like all people, autistic people have their own strengths and weaknesses. I'm very grateful that I've had the opportunity to meet and learn from many autistic people, who have helped me understand that autism is a difference not a deficit. The more I learnt, the more I was able to connect with and celebrate my autistic children.

That's where Autism Central can help you. We have resources, created with autistic people, that can help you learn more about autism. We also have group and individual sessions, delivered by our hubs, with Peer Educators who are parents/carers of autistic people, just like you.

Please remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Reach out to your local hub and we'll be there to guide you. You've got this!

Lynne