Autism Intermediate

Overview

The Aim of this course is to help participants understand what Autism is and the varied presentation of autistic people, the main characteristics which lead to a diagnosis of Autism and the range of difficulties and challenges that autistic people can experience in everyday life. There is also a focus on the legal and policy framework that underpins good practice with autistic people.

Who is Autism Intermediate aimed at?

All staff who may encounter autistic adults and/or children in their role. Including Direct Care Staff, Social Workers, Social care assessors, SEN Officers, BIAs, AMHPs, Managers and a wide range of staff from education, social care and health contexts.

Course Length

1 day

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this training course learners will be able to:- 

•  Know basic facts about autism including: how common it is, that autism is neurodevelopmental and life long, that every person is affected differently and is unique.
• Be able to use respectful terminology and accept autistic people for who they are
• Know how to make reasonable adjustments for autistic people and be able to put key adaptations into practice
• Understand what autistic characteristics may look like in real life situations
• Understand the importance of meeting an autistic person’s unique communication and information needs and develop practical strategies to do so
• Recognise some key differences in social interaction e.g. difficulties with small talk, social rules and processing time.
• Understand how sensory issues can impact on autistic people and be able to make simple changes to ensure an environment is accessible to autistic people
• Recognise the importance of passionate interests and hobbies.
• Plan changes in advance whenever possible.
• Provide preparation and information about upcoming events using a variety of communication methods.
• Be aware of the wide range of difficulties and challenges autistic people and their families may experience in daily life
• Understand the factors relevant to ‘quality of life’ for autistic people
• Provide person centred support using a strengths-based approach, supporting autistic people to be empowered by services and to be as independent as possible
• Know where to access resources and further information about autism.