April is World Autism Acceptance Month, with World Autism Acceptance Day on Wednesday 2 April!
This month aims to increase understanding and acceptance of autism, and support autistic individuals and their families.
In Haringey, we are committed to providing support and resources for children, young people, and adults with special educational needs and disabilities. Throughout this month, we will highlight the free resources, support services, and activities available through our SEND Service and across the council and borough.
Support and community groups and activities for autistic young people
The Gaming Connection For autistic 14-19-year-olds in Haringey mainstream schools.
Hosted by John, a specialist support worker from Haringey’s Language and Autism Support Team.
- Online: Every Wednesday during term-time, 4-5pm on Microsoft Teams.
- In-person: Half-termly at Rising Green Youth Hub.
Join us! Visit our website for more information.
Youth Club for autistic young people in Year 7-11
For autistic young people in Years 7 to 11, aged 11-16. Hosted by Aarti, a Specialist Autism Support Worker on Haringey’s Language and Autism Support Team.
- Date: Every Thursday during term time
- Time: 4pm to 5pm
- Location: Muswell Hill Centre, Hillfield Park, London N10 3QJ
Please note: This youth club is for young people with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).
For more information, please complete our expression of interest form or contact aarti.meisuria@haringey.gov.uk
Autism Hub for young people and adults 16+
#ActuallyHaringey supports young people and adults (16+) with autism through digital, online, and in-person services. Weekly activities include music-making, gardening, and one-on-one advice sessions.
For more information or to refer yourself or someone else, visit the #ActuallyHaringey website.
Tech & digital skills for neurodivergent young people
Join Atypify every weekend at the Autism Hub for inclusive, creative tech and wellbeing sessions designed for young people who are:
- Autistic and neurodivergent
- Women and non-binary
- Recommended age: 14 to 25
Activities include coding, robotics, app and web development, digital design, and more. For more information, visit our website.
Markfield Project
Markfield is an inclusive community hub in Haringey where people can play, socialise and get information & support.
They offer a range of support services for parents and carers of children with autism.
- All for One Club: Monday evening club for young adults with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. Mondays 6.30pm – 9pm during a 12-week term. Activities include arts, sports, trips, and discussions.
Visit the Markfield Project website for more information.
Employment and Skills Support
Meet our Specialist Employment Adviser for Autism and Learning Difficulties
Haringey Works offers free employment services for Haringey residents, including sessions with a specialist employment advisor for autistic young people. Services include CV support, interview preparation, and more.
- Date: Every Thursday
- Time: Appointments are available between 10am to 4pm
- Location: Autism Hub, 20B Waltheof Gardens, N17 7DN
To book an appointment, complete this form or email nadir21.alvis@haringey.gov.uk.
Supported Internship Programme
A work-based learning programme for young people aged 16 to 25 with an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).
Starting every autumn term, young people complete three work rotations throughout an academic year with support from a job coach, who then supports their transition into paid employment.
- Visit the Supported Internship Programme website for more information.
Support for families and parents/carers of autistic children and young people
Markfield Project parent/carer support group
The Markfield Project hosts monthly meetings for Haringey parents and carers of children recently diagnosed with autism or on the waiting list for assessment. Chat with other parents, get support, hear speakers on autism-related topics, and get information about local support services.
SEND Power Parent Carer Forum
A community of parents and carers in Haringey, providing mutual support and sharing views with decision-makers to improve services for children and young people with SEND in the borough.
Monthly coffee mornings and walking events: A supportive space for parents of children with special needs to connect.
Webinar recording: discussing autistic identity with your child
For parents and carers of autistic children and young people in Haringey schools and colleges.
This recording by Haringey’s Language and Autism Support and Social Communication team provides helpful ways to share an autism diagnosis journey.
Autism-friendly quiet hours at London museums
Check out Autism in Museums calendar with a list of museums across the U.K. that host quiet hours for children and young people with SEND.
Upcoming workshops and events
Transitioning to Secondary School Workshop for Parents/Carers
Support for parents/carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) transitioning to secondary school.
- Date: Thursday, 15 May 2025
- Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am
- Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Understanding Autism: Seminars for Parents/Carers of Children 5 and Under
Seminars for parents and carers of children aged 5 and under with a recent Autism diagnosis.
- In-person session: Wednesday, 14 May 2025, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Woodside Children's Centre, N22 5SJ
- Online session: Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Autism Support Workshop Description: An interactive discussion group for parents/carers of children aged 5+ with an Autism diagnosis.
Share experiences, learn from other families and practitioners, connect with a supportive community, and discover local resources and support.
- Date: Monday, 12 May 2025
- Time: 10am to 12.00pm
- Location: Autism Hub, Chad Gordan Campus, N17 7HS
Online Workshop: Choosing a Post-16 Setting for SEND Learners
Online workshop for young people with special educational needs and disabilities transitioning to a post-16 setting. Suitable for students from year 9 upwards, mostly those in Y10, but families of younger children may attend.
- Date: Tuesday, 13 May 2025
- Time: 6pm to 8.00pm
- Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
