ADHD and Autism: Key Differences and Similarities
Definitions and assumptions about ADHD and autism can sometimes create confusion, especially when it comes to how they relate to one another. It might surprise some to learn that these two neurodevelopmental differences can occur together, even though certain traits may seem to point in opposite directions. For example, autistic people often value routine and […]
How to Reduce Anxiety in Autistic Adults
What is anxiety? It’s when you feel your body trembling, and heart racing yet for no obvious reason. It’s when a simple change in plans fills your body with distress. It’s when being in a room full of people makes you feel overwhelmed, scared and ready to run. It’s when getting too much or too […]
Difference Between Autistic Meltdown and Autistic Shutdown
Autistic meltdown or shutdown occurs when autistic people become overwhelmed by sensory input. For autistic people, meltdowns and shutdowns are not something they choose – they’re instinctive reactions to being overwhelmed. A meltdown might look like shouting, crying, or other intense outward expressions of distress. A shutdown, on the other hand, can mean going quiet, […]
Autistic Meltdown: Triggers and Support
Many people can experience anxiety or intense emotions in specific situations triggered by a number of reasons. When feeling completely overwhelmed, people might find it difficult to regulate emotions, leading to intense response or loss of control. For autistic people, an overwhelming situation or stressful stimuli may lead to even more intense uncontrollable responses, and […]
Learning Disability Week – A Word with Ashleigh Fox, a Transforming Care Director, RNLD and Neurodiversity advocate
Learning Disability Week is always a time for reflection, but this year’s theme – “Do You See Me?” – hits deeper than most. For those who work alongside people with learning disabilities every day, this question isn’t rhetorical. It’s a challenge. A reminder. A responsibility. The work of learning disability nurses is often behind the […]
Anxiety in Autism: Understanding the Connection
Anxiety has become an inevitable part of life in today’s world. Whether it’s triggered by stress or sudden, unexpected change, most of us recognise that physical response – tension, racing thoughts, or a body on edge. The relationship between autism and anxiety is even stronger. While around 10–15% of the general population experience an anxiety […]
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
Key Takeaways In a world where verbal communication becomes more challenging every day, there is a huge need for an effective functional communication system. Over the past couple of years, the number of children needing additional support in speech development has tripled and is expected to rise. That’s why we have implemented innovative augmentative and […]
Assistive Technology in Non-Speaking Autism
If you are a parent to an autistic child, you are probably looking for effective ways to encourage your child’s communication skills. While this might look challenging at times, the latest technology trends have shown remarkable results in supporting interaction and verbal communication in non-speaking autism. That’s why we have implemented assistive technology in our […]
Importance of Regular Review and Adaptation of Care Plans
A care plan is much more than a document- it’s a dynamic reflection of someone’s life, needs and preferences. As people grow, change, and face new challenges or opportunities, their support should evolve with them. Regular reviews make sure that care stays relevant- not just clinically, but personally. When support aligns with what matters day […]
What is Empowerment in Health and Social Care
When a flower blooms in the right environment, it doesn’t just grow – it thrives, revealing colours no one knew were possible. Every person has the right to live in a safe and healthy environment that nurtures their skills, beliefs and aspirations. This is particularly important for people who might need additional care and support […]
