91ÌÒÉ«

91ÌÒɫ’s Partnerships Director, Steve Bromley, tells us about his experience of working with young people to promote a meaningful life… 

I’ve worked in the education and care sector for over 15 years, and in that time, I’ve come to realise that misconceptions about Autistic – or Neurodivergent – people are commonplace. For example, the idea that they must be either ‘high’ or ‘low’ functioning with no middle ground, or that the multi-faceted condition’s primary symptom is being socially awkward as film and TV would often have us believe. One of the biggest barriers to correcting these falsehoods is that trying to simplify what autism is and how it affects someone is almost impossible. Autism is anything but simple! 

A fresh perspective 

No two people are the same, so why would we assume that all people with autism must be? On the contrary, given that being Neurodivergent means that your brain works, learns, and processes information differently to the way others expect, of course that manifests itself differently in every instance. It can feel chaotic, overwhelming, illogical, isolating, and stressful; a visit to the shops can be intimidating and communication can sometimes be challenging. On the other hand, it can be rewarding and exciting; with joy derived from things that others may take for granted. Things like sensory feedback from smells and touch, finding a deep connection with others around you, or in the passionate pursuit of hobbies and interests. 

Working at 91ÌÒÉ« has shown me that these differences should be celebrated, and that Autistic people should be respected, appreciated, and given access to all the opportunities afforded to their neurotypical counterparts. 

Shaping meaningful lives 

So, what does that look like in practice? Well, at 91ÌÒÉ« we provide education and care for children and adults with autism, learning disabilities, and complex needs. We do that across our independent schools, colleges, registered care homes, and through our supported living services. Whatever the setting, we live and breathe our ‘Meaningful Life’ model – striving to understand the needs of each person we support so we can ensure the environment, daily routine, and interactions we have with them promote personal development and enrich their lives. This includes carefully considering the way we challenge individuals, encouraging them to learn new skills and build resilience, with a view to fostering confidence and independence going forward. 

We’re able to offer a range of therapies, including Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Music Therapy depending on the needs of the individual. We are fortunate enough to have a very talented in-house team delivering most of our sessions, who work closely with our care, education, and training staff. By collaborating like this, we’re able to provide a service as unique as the individuals we support. 

Accentuate the positives 

I absolutely love coming to work and wouldn’t change it for the world. I know that whatever the day may hold, one thing it will never be is boring – challenging, maybe but never dull. It’s a privilege to have the chance to support this vibrant community of amazing, interesting, and fun people, and to make a real difference to them and their families’ lives. 

This World Autism Acceptance Week let’s celebrate what it means to have autism as we do here at 91ÌÒÉ«. Let’s take time to understand the difficulties that Autistic people may experience, while focusing on the enormous positives that can come from thinking differently…