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Book Review: Facilitating Autistic Peer Support Groups by Bird Sellergren
Facilitating Autistic Peer Support Groups by Bird Sellergren is a comprehensive handbook for creating and maintaining supportive spaces for Autistic adults. It emphasises the importance of respect, autonomy, and emotional safety in facilitation, encouraging self-awareness among facilitators. Grounded in intersectional frameworks, it serves as a vital resource for advocacy and empowerment.
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Poetry and Grief: Honouring Professor Jason Arday
Last night’s grief circle by Black Psychotherapy, led by poet Janice Whyne, honoured Professor Jason Arday. Participants expressed deep emotions of grief, rage, and injustice associated with his tragic death and broader societal issues. The session encouraged reflection on grief, community support, and the transformative power of shared experiences and words.
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The Power of Collaborative Thematic Analysis in Trans Research
The author’s PhD research involves analysing health and social care experiences with four trans and gender diverse co-researchers. Initially concerned about coordination, the collaboration has proved rewarding, enhancing understanding of shared experiences. The team is now writing a paper on their findings, demonstrating the power of participatory action research.
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Trans+ Creative Workshops: Reflections and Poems
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PhD Cohort Reflections: Symbolism and Community
In February, I spent a day with my PhD cohort, sharing progress and engaging in discussions about publishing research, facilitated by the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership. At the end, we received a kalawa, symbolising unity, protection, and well-being, which I plan to place alongside my other meaningful reminders.
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Trans Aware Cancer Care: Why Listening Saves Lives
Trans+ individuals in the UK face significant barriers in accessing cancer care, leading to lower screening rates and heightened health risks. The Trans Aware Cancer Care project highlights personal stories, emphasising the need for systemic changes, including inclusive practices and staff education. Positive interactions can improve care experiences and outcomes significantly.
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The Power of Kindness in Healthcare
Kindness is a free yet scarce resource in healthcare, often hindered by systemic issues like staff exhaustion and bias. Sharing personal stories fosters empathy and connection, creating a sense of belonging. Community-driven research enriches understanding and advocacy, reminding us of the importance of kindness in sustaining human connection amidst challenges.
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Safe Storytelling in Academia: A Critical Exploration
The author shares insights about community-based knowledge from trans Autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of honoring and protecting these lived experiences. They grapple with how to navigate sharing these stories in academic contexts, questioning what knowledge should be disclosed and focusing on safe, community-driven storytelling over traditional research methods.
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Enhancing Accessibility for Autistic Clients in Substance Use Services
I am part-way through my SCDTP internship with Portsmouth City Council, focusing on enhancing accessibility for Autistic clients in substance use services. Utilising findings from the Autistic Substance Use Network, I am auditing training and Recovery Hub environments while collaborating with LGBTQIA+ recovery workers to develop a comprehensive accessibility blueprint.
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Embracing Authenticity in Academic Presentations
The author reflects on speaking at various queer and autistic conferences, emphasizing the challenges of conforming to normative presentation styles. They found comfort in familiar environments and shared experiences with attendees. Despite difficulties, they aimed for a conversational approach, valuing personal storytelling and community engagement over traditional presentation norms.