Published on 12, July, 2020
Has anyone ever tried to set up any local groups?
I live a bit out in the sticks and can't drive, but do work. This rather means that the scant support group resources there are are all beyond reach for me to participate. They are in the day when I'm working, or way beyond walking distance at night when there is no transport. It does leave me rather isolated from other autistic people. There must be others like me in the neighbourhood, I just don't know who they are, where they are or how we could help each other. Online communities like this are fantastic. I'd be lost without you guys. But we all need local chums for that cup of tea when we're down or a laugh over a shared interest, or a hand when you've got a practical problem - from someone face to face too.
With that I posted something on a local community forum, hoping someone will come forward wanting to set something up.
Just wondering if this has worked for anyone else?
Hi I helped find places for local meet ups. Explored local Cafes and Community Centres. Can create simple flyers and take them to libraries, community centres etc. This Wednesday there is an Autism Cafe meeting. Also activities are part of some meetings.
They can also be advertised and organised via www.meetup.com. Any more info I will be glad to share.
Also I go on some zoom meets and there are people a bit out in the sticks who join.
I have recently set up a group online and in our community of East Lancashire. I was supported by my NHS mental health service. It feels like possibly a year to develop it for me with my pending autism assessment which has now been completed. I feel like the social setting of a group will be a challenge for me but I am willing to run a small group. I was co facilitating it with the NHS team now they have stepped back and I found someone else to be a co director and hope to apply for funding. There is a link here if you would like to read more:(i mention my recent diagnosis of Autism too: www.eventbrite.co.uk/.../medication-for-your-mind-saturday-group-online-tickets-726103323587
Thanks and sorry it took me me so long to see your reply to me.
Thank you. And well done.
Congratulations! That’s an achievement! I hope you can apply for funding for your group and attract some members.