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I am a 17 year old student from Hastings with High functioning Autism. I'm trying to raise awareness about Autistic Spectrum Disorders. I'm currently a student at Bexhill college and an Autism Ambassador for students and staff there. This week I co-presented a presentation to ‘new intake’ students to support them in their transition from School to Further Education, but have also helped put together an information board in the college to raise awareness and ensure both students and staff understand some of the barriers to learning that those on the spectrum experience. 

Both my former School and my current college, have asked me to speak with students with disabilities & learning difficulties to help them with some of their questions & concerns about accessing education. These forward thinking establishments have a positive approach toward those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and many other learning difficulties such as Dyslexia, and are enabling students to grow in confidence and truly achieve the very best they can in Education. My efforts are entirely voluntary and I hope that greater awareness will stamp out prejudice and increase accessibility to education, jobs and support for independent living.

According to the National Autistic Society, Only 15% of people with autism are in full time employment, despite the fact that 79% of people with autism on out of work benefits want to work. For many, all they need is a combination of the right support and the opportunity to make ambitions a reality.

I have written to several high profile figures in the past and have received very encouraging support including several letters from Rick Stein, the celebrity Chef. I am now writing to Local MP’s and other high profile figures asking that they help me get my message across.

My message is a simple one. “I’m a person with High functioning Autism. It’s called Aspergers Syndrome. I speak articulately and to look at me there is no outward sign that I have a disability. I’m bright, conscientious and I come across as able, but there are things I need support with. I have a hidden disability, however this is not a mental illness and my disability should not be a barrier to work or education.

There are many minority groups that have found a voice over the years, the physically disabled, ethnic minorities, gay couples and so on. However, those with hidden disabilities Such as Aspergers, struggle to be heard or have their views taken into account. The majority of people with Asperger’s are either unemployed or underemployed. The barriers to get into work if you have ASD are very great and we need to let people know that we have a lot to offer.

Like many with ASD, I am considering running my own business. I’d like to support others with the condition to achieve their dream. My dream is to be heard and valued as a contributing member of society. We do have a voice and we want to be able to live life the way we want, not the way ignorance or prejudice dictates.

Please donate and help raise awareness about Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.