Autistic people and carers invited to shape Oxfordshire’s Autism Strategy
Autistic people, their parents, and carers are being called to a pivotal event, alongside professionals on Thursday 4 December at The King’s Centre, Oxford, where they will have the chance to directly influence Oxfordshire’s All Age Autism Strategy.
Running from 9:30am to 2:30pm, with refreshments and lunch provided, the event offers a unique opportunity for the community to review and give feedback on the latest draft of the strategy.
The Council has made some changes to a draft strategy after consultation with the community in the summer. The council now wants to go further – ensuring the voices of autistic people and those who support them are at the heart of the final plan.
Councillor Tim Bearder, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Autistic people and their families are leading the way in shaping this strategy – not just consulted, but co-producing it section by section.
“Each part is being written by those with lived experience, supported by professionals, ensuring the final strategy reflects what truly matters to them.
“Autistic people have told us that reports and documents too often focus on what people can’t do, rather than recognising autism as part of who they are.
“This strategy marks a significant shift in language and thinking, moving away from terms like ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’ and towards inclusive language that respects and reflects the community’s preferences.
“It’s about perspectives – and this strategy is rooted in listening, collaboration, and respect. It’s a move towards a more inclusive Oxfordshire, where autistic people are recognised as experts in their own lives.”
Attendees will take part in a series of table discussions, each focused on a different theme from the strategy. With six topics in total, participants can join multiple sessions and share their experiences, priorities, and ideas for improvement.
The event is organised by a partnership including Oxfordshire County Council, Oxfordshire Parent Carer Forum, Autism Champions, Response, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, and the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board (BOB ICB).
Councillor Sean Gaul, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “This event is a vital opportunity to hear directly from autistic children, young people, and their families. Their insights are shaping our new co-produced all-age autism strategy – a strategy designed to help people across Oxfordshire thrive in education, health, employment, training and their communities.”
Dee Nic Sitric, CEO of Autism Champions, said: “It has been great to be part of the development of the Oxfordshire All Age Autism Strategy, and I see it as a vital step towards creating a community where autistic people of all ages can live, learn and work with dignity, freedom, and respect.”
As an autistic-led organisation, Autism Champions is proud to be part of a movement that seeks to do things differently, and to see autistic people for who they are: human beings with strengths, hopes, and the right to thrive on our own terms.
Dee adds: “Within a stretched and complex system, this strategy represents a commitment to making real change using what Oxfordshire already has in abundance: knowledge, compassion, and lived experience. By valuing and centring autistic voices, we aim to shift attitudes, reshape support, and build a community where every autistic person is recognised and included.”
The Oxfordshire All Age Autism Strategy is a collaborative effort between autistic people, families, professionals, and community organisations. The strategy will lay the groundwork for a more inclusive, understanding, and equitable future.
Registration is open now via the Let’s Talk Oxfordshire website, where further details are available.
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