In this special episode of On The Spectrum, we take you to the heart of the annual Loddon Conference in Basingstoke, where professionals, educators, and advocates gathered to share ideas, best practices, and personal experiences around Autism, Special Educational Needs (SEN), Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), and neurodiversity.

From inclusive education to trauma-informed care, and from behaviour strategies to lived experiences — this episode features real voices doing real work in the field. It’s an uplifting and insightful snapshot of a community dedicated to making a difference.

🎧 Tune in and discover how collaboration and passion are shaping the future of inclusive support.

🔗 Learn more:

• www.loddonschool.org

• www.pbsuk.org

• www.kindtailoredcare.co.uk

• www.tellitasitis.uk

In this powerful episode of On The Spectrum, we speak with Rachel Wright, Director and Founder of Born At The Right Time, a platform dedicated to transforming the way professionals and families connect in the world of complex needs and disability.

Rachel shares her personal and professional insights on the misconceptions around disability, the urgent need for change in education and healthcare, and her lived experience as a parent of a child with complex needs. We also discuss her moving memoir, The Skies I’m Under, and the hopes she holds for the future of inclusion and co-production.

Whether you're a parent, practitioner, or advocate, this episode is packed with compassion, real talk, and a call to bridge the gap between families and services.

🔗 Learn more at:

www.loddonschool.org

www.bornattherighttime.com

In this insightful episode of On The Spectrum, we are joined by Dr Beverley Samways, founder and director of Unique Connections, to explore the complex and sensitive topic of trauma, particularly in the context of learning disabilities and autism.

With over 20 years of experience in the care sector, Dr Samways shares her deep understanding of trauma-informed care and how emotional literacy and relational support can help individuals who self-injure or show signs of distress. We discuss how her organisation, Unique Connections, works with schools and care providers to create tailored, meaningful approaches that start by finding a unique point of connection with each individual.

Whether you're a professional, caregiver, or someone seeking to understand trauma more deeply, this episode is filled with compassion, experience, and practical guidance.

🔗 Learn more:👉 The Loddon School – www.loddonschool.org
👉 Unique Connections – www.uniqueconnections.org.uk

In Episode 10 of On The Spectrum, we sit down with Sam Corbett, Board Certified Behaviour Analyst and the newly appointed Vice Chair of The Loddon Foundation.

Sam shares her inspiring career journey, from her beginnings as a support worker to her current role as Senior PBS Clinician at PBS4 and her leadership at The Loddon Foundation. We explore her passion for Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), her commitment to person-centred care, and her vision for the future of neurodiverse support services.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in behavioural science, inclusive practice, or the future of autism support.

🔗 Learn more:
👉 The Loddon School – www.loddonschool.org
👉 PBS4 – www.pbs4.org.uk

In this episode of the “On The Spectrum” podcast, we are joined by Occupational Therapist Carolyne Oates. Carolyne shares her invaluable experiences and knowledge about the complex sensory needs that are inherent in all of us, especially those on the autism spectrum.

Tune in to discover how Occupational Therapy can play a crucial role in fostering inclusion and independence. Learn how tailored therapies can help individuals gain confidence and become the best versions of themselves. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or just curious about sensory support, this episode offers enlightening insights that you won’t want to miss.

Listen now and join us on the journey towards understanding and empowerment.

This week on "On The Spectrum," we unlock the magic of inclusive environments through the lens of gaming with our special guest, Scott from Dice Tower Gaming. Dice Tower isn't just a lounge and café; it's a beacon of inclusion, celebrating the rich tapestry of pop culture, board games, graphic novels, and more, all while fostering a community where neurodiversity is not just welcomed—it's celebrated.

In this episode, we delve into how environments like Dice Tower Gaming serve as sanctuaries of capability and inclusion, particularly for neurodiverse individuals. Discover the surprising and profound benefits of board games and role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons in supporting social skills, creative thinking, and emotional growth among neurodiverse gamers.

Scott shares his insights on creating spaces that champion neurodiversity, the role games play in building bridges between different worlds, and how every roll of the dice or move on the board can be a step towards understanding and acceptance.

Join us for an enlightening journey into how gaming lounges like Dice Tower are levelling up the game of inclusion. Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a fan of pop culture, or someone passionate about neurodiversity, this episode will inspire you to think differently about play and inclusion.

Tune in, subscribe, and let's explore together how the world of gaming is creating new realms of possibilities for everyone on the spectrum.

In this heartfelt episode of "On The Spectrum," we explore the often-overlooked experiences of siblings of those on the autism spectrum. Join our insightful conversation with two special guests - Amy Braithwaite, who formerly worked at The Loddon School's Behaviour and Analysis Support Department and is currently a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner, and Amelie Reddy, the 10-year-old daughter of our first guest, Andy Reddy.

Both Amy and Ami share the unique joys and challenges of having a brother on the spectrum. Their stories shed light on the dynamics within families touched by autism, offering valuable insights into the support, understanding, and love that shape these relationships.

This episode not only delves into their personal journeys but also broadens the conversation about neurodiversity's impact on family life. Whether you're a sibling, parent, educator, or someone keen to understand more about life on the spectrum, this episode provides a rare glimpse into the lives of those who grow up alongside neurodiverse family members.

Tune in for an episode full of empathy, learning, and love as we dive into the world of siblings living with and loving someone on the autism spectrum.

In Episode 6 of "On The Spectrum," join Lorena and David as they engage in a profound conversation with Matthew Holman, the founder of Simpila Mental Health. Matthew brings a unique perspective, not only as a mental health advocate but also as a parent navigating the challenging journey of a child diagnosed with autism and grappling with mental health issues.

⚠️ Content Warning: Please be advised, this episode discusses sensitive topics surrounding mental health and suicide.

We explore the complexities surrounding late autism diagnosis and its impact on mental health. Matthew candidly shares his family's experiences, offering insights into the challenges, learnings, and the resilience needed when facing such profound situations. His story is one of courage, love, and the pursuit of understanding and support in the face of adversity.

This episode promises to enlighten, educate, and offer hope to anyone touched by autism and mental health struggles. Whether you are a parent, educator, or someone seeking to deepen your understanding of neurodiversity, join us for an episode that connects heart and mind.

Listen in and be part of a conversation that's crucial in today's world, as we aim to bring light to often unspoken aspects of neurodiversity and mental health.

In this heartfelt episode of "On The Spectrum," hosts Lorena and Dave are joined by the parents of a remarkable student at The Loddon School. Together, they delve into an intimate and enlightening conversation about the realities, challenges, and triumphs of parenting a child on the spectrum.

Lolly's parents open up about their personal journey, sharing insights and experiences that span the spectrum of emotions. From navigating the initial diagnosis to embracing the unique joys and hurdles of raising a child on the spectrum, they offer a candid look into their journey.

This episode is not only a narrative of love and resilience but also a source of inspiration and understanding for anyone touched by autism. It's a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone seeking a deeper comprehension of the diverse experiences within the autism community.

Tune in to listen, learn, and connect with the powerful story of Lolly and his family. Subscribe to "On The Spectrum" for more stories that bring us closer to understanding the vast spectrum of neurodiversity.

Join us on 'Living Autism' as we sit down with Daniel Toney, writer and performer of "Mine (or Unapologetically Autistic)". Journey with Daniel through life on the spectrum, from personal anecdotes to societal observations. This episode offers an intimate look at neurodiversity, bringing to light the candid, sometimes humorous experiences of an adult with autism. Whether you're neurodiverse, neurotypical, or just curious, this conversation promises to resonate and enlighten. Dive in for a heartwarming, unfiltered portrayal of life on the spectrum.Catch Daniel Live!
Don't miss Daniel's limited-run show, "Mine (or Unapologetically Autistic)", at the Etcetera Theatre Club on 265 Camden High Street, London, on 22/10/2023.

PLUS, take advantage of our FREE OPEN SESSION for parents and caregivers on the 27th of October at Field Barn House, Basingstoke. 📍 A supportive environment awaits you. See you there! 😊

#OnTheSpectrum #AutismAwareness #UnderstandingAutism