By Nick Stone, member of ALAG and Autism Hub peer support facilitator, 5 January 2022.

ALAG and the Autism Hub’s first event on 2022 was a lively, upbeat and a positive start to the New Year.  The topic for discussion was the positives of autism – and the contributions were insightful.

In a fast paced and informative 90 minute session, the webinar began with a presentation and personal experience from an ALAG member. After that, audience contributions came thick and fast. This was a well attended event – reflecting  the importance and value of the topic.

This particular event was pleased to welcome new contributors – several of whom spoke about their positive experiences. It’s good to see that participation in these ALAG and Autism Hub events continues to grow.

Common themes were autistic attention to detail, good long term memory and a preference for logic. These positives having benefits in employment, practical activities and problem solving.

References to walking encyclopaedias, passionate commitment to special interests and acquiring information were demonstrated as positives. Perhaps for these reasons, several audience members saying they would never give way their autism – seeing these traits as positives of life.

I enjoyed moderating the event and was left feeling positive about 2022 – with many audience members providing welcome testimonies about their experiences.