Mental health team work with Autistic Community to improve services
Our Adult Mental Health Team have taken part in training to learn more about neurodivergence. The training, led by Autistic Community of Cornwall, aims to improve the experience of neurodivergent people who need mental health support.
“We need better understanding of neurodivergence. We want to create spaces in which autistic people feel comfortable. There are stereotypes around autism, even amongst health professionals.
“Autistic Community of Cornwall is helping us challenge these. This will help our staff to provide high quality care for people with autism.” Beth Ford, Associate Director of Community Mental Health Services
The Autistic Community of Cornwall is a community interest company. It was created by autistic people for autistic people and began in April 2023. They have received numerous requests for support.
“We set the company up out of frustration. There was no support available for the autistic community in Cornwall.
“For years, I have worked with the autistic community to promote acceptance and understanding of autism.
“Through the Community we provide all types of training. We also offer mentoring for those who would like to talk directly to another autistic person.” Tigger Pritchard, Co-director of Autistic Community
“People debate giving autistic people a medical label. But diagnosis is a key step for gaining support.
“I am known as the Community’s activist! I support parents who want better education for their children. I also help people obtain a quicker diagnosis.” Marie Ralph, Co-director of Autistic Community
The Trust is the first organisation in the area to invest in widespread autism training.
“We have had a positive response to training. This is just the start. A group of mental health professionals will have training to identify autism using specialist tools.
“They will then be able to support each other. They will help other colleagues to identify autism and neurodiversity. This could help people access our services more easily.
“It is important the NHS supports every member of our community. We want to learn from them.
“We will continue to work with the Autistic Community of Cornwall and change how we work. We hope other organisations seek their help. In this way, we can develop a more accepting society.” Beth Ford