Autistic and Living the Dream

Category: Autism

  • 2024 in Review: Advocacy Work and Community Connections

    2024 in Review: Advocacy Work and Community Connections

    2024 was another very busy year for me and a very turbulent time for many of us worldwide. In the UK political violence towards transgender people, disabled people and other marginalised groups has continued to grow. The ban on puberty blockers for all transgender young people is the most recent attempt to bring us down.…

  • Ode to a lost hat

    Ode to a lost hat

    My Dearest, where are you?  I have searched many hours for your warm splendor, There were two days I forgot you existed,  But now in my hour of need I must have you. You are mine, yet you are gone,  So far – or close – to me, I cannot tell, You have gone and…

  • The jewellery I never get to wear

    The jewellery I never get to wear

    This post delves into the challenges faced by a chronically ill, anxious Autistic individual in attending social events, due to physical and mental considerations. The author highlights the complexities of preparing for outings, the impact on relationships, and the need for understanding from others. Despite missed opportunities, the individual prioritizes self-care and hopes for future…

  • What’s the best thing about being Autistic and LGBTQIA+?

    What’s the best thing about being Autistic and LGBTQIA+?

    This pride month, I asked the community: What’s the best thing about being both Autistic and LGBTQIA+? This blog is based on your answers. Autistic and queer people are often understood through issues we experience such as healthcare needs, inaccessibility, stigma and prejudice. These areas are important for us to discuss, be aware of and…

  • Trans and Autistic: Power at the intersection

    Trans and Autistic: Power at the intersection

    Gender expression and identity, under colonialism, is considered as binary, either masculine or feminine, but some people fall somewhere along – or outside of – the spectrum of gender. Trans and gender diverse identities (as well as cultural ‘third genders’ such as two-spirit) exist more frequently in Autistic communities than in non-Autistic communities. Many Autistic…

  • Trans and Autistic: Living in two closets

    Trans and Autistic: Living in two closets

    The overlap of Autistic and LGBTQIA+ identities is a growing topic of conversation especially for those of us who occupy both spaces, and there are lots of us! We are all at differing points in our neurodivergent and queer journeys, some of us are clear of who we are, some of us are confused, some…

  • Check list for UK Pride events

    Check list for UK Pride events

    I’m going to several UK Pride events this year. I made myself a checklist and thought others might benefit from this too. #PrideMonth #Pride2024

  • Creating Safe Spaces book review

    Creating Safe Spaces book review

    “Creating Safe Spaces for Autistic People” by Scott Neilson and Laura Hellfeld provides a comprehensive guide for establishing inclusive environments. The authors, along with other autistic advocates, address topics such as language use, participant support, and accessibility. Ranging from sensory tools to public transport guidance, this well-structured resource is valuable for professionals supporting autistic individuals.

  • Interview with TransActual for Autism Acceptance Month

    Interview with TransActual for Autism Acceptance Month

    What assumptions do you wish people would stop making about Autistic people? There are so many! I think from a trans and wider LGBTQIA+ perspective is that we can understand ourselves and what we need and want from our relationships, and what we need and want from our body, and how we want to show…

  • UK university ethics applications – a neurodivergent nightmare?

    UK university ethics applications – a neurodivergent nightmare?

    Policies within UK universities outline that research undertaken therein requires ethical review, however the process of obtaining favourable opinion can be inaccessible to Autistic ADHD students due to ableism within Higher Education. I wanted to know whether I was the only Autistic and ADHD / Attention Hyperactive person who really struggled with my degree ethics…