Autism is difference, not deficit
Neurodivergence is a natural part of human diversity. We recognise that autism is an intrinsic part of us as people, and that doesn’t make us less-than or wrong.
We use and support the social and identity models of disability: understanding that societal barriers affect perceptions of us as autistic people, and often how we view ourselves, and that our autistic identity is a source of community, culture, and pride rather than something to hide or overcome.
Self-diagnosis is valid
You do not need a formal diagnosis to join our community. If you are exploring your neurodivergence, seeking a diagnosis or self-identify as autistic, you are welcome.
We know that many people cannot access a diagnosis or that they may be misdiagnosed. Bias can affect how we are labelled, you do not need a diagnosis to know you are or say you are autistic.
Inclusive of all Autistic identities
We respect personal choices over how everyone describes themselves. Most of us use identity-first language, “I am autistic”, but some of us use person-first language, “I have autism”.
We recognise that the autistic experience varies from person to person. Some of us identify as disabled by our autism, and others don’t. We always say support needs, and don’t use terms like high-functioning.
Anti-Racist, Queer-affirming and Secular
We are staunchly anti-racist and make concerted efforts to understand the cultural nuances and intersections between neurodivergence/autism and different cultural, racial and ethnic backgrounds.
We are accepting of all gender identities and are proud LGBTQIA+ allies. We do not support gender-critical feminism, trans-exclusionary radical feminism or similar theories.
We will update our group use of language to reflect our members’ preferences, particularly if a member says that the language we use causes harm or distress. We recognise the potential for intrinsic bias, especially with regard to race and ethnicity, as we strive for fairness in all we do.
We operate on a secular basis, but we promote religious tolerance and respect individual beliefs.
All forms of participation are welcome
We recognise that the way we participate can look different from how we are taught to. It is enough to just be here: we do not compare contributions or value one type of contribution over another.
We believe lurking (engaging in a space without communicating) is a valid form of participation.
We know that how much we join in varies depending on how busy we are, energy levels, and often anxiety. Stepping back is okay; we always work around each other.
We understand that everyone communicates differently. Some of us prefer to talk aloud or only through written text, and many of us use a mixture. We accommodate both ways, online and in-person.
Trauma-informed space
We are mindful that many of us have had traumatic experiences, and we strive to keep our space protective.
We are an opt-in space, which means that we ask for consent before we discuss topics that could be sensitive to some – and we always stop if anyone says no.
We respect everyone else’s boundaries, as well as our own. If someone is not feeling up to participating, physically, mentally or emotionally, then we ask them to temporarily step away until they are okay again.
Youth Hub is not a mental health support space. We have Mental Health First Aiders (MHFA), but we are not able to provide 1-to-1 therapeutic support.