Episode 20

Autism Acceptance

In this episode of This Is Autism, Kerrie Highcock is joined by NEAS CEO John Phillipson, who has led the organisation for more than 20 years. Throughout his leadership, John has played a central role in shaping the charity’s values, expanding its services, and championing the shift from autism awareness to genuine autism acceptance.

Kerrie and John explore a range of important themes, including:

  • What autism acceptance means – John reflects on why acceptance is essential and how it shapes communities, services, and everyday life for autistic people.
  • Current challenges and barriers – drawing on decades of experience, John discusses the obstacles that continue to stand in the way of meaningful acceptance.
  • A vision for the future- John shares his hopes for what the world could look like for autistic people and their families in the years ahead.
  • Lessons learned over two decades – from societal change to evolving understanding, John looks back on the key insights he has gained throughout his time leading NEAS.

This thoughtful conversation offers clarity, perspective, and a renewed call to action for anyone committed to building a more inclusive and accepting future.

This Is Autism is the official podcast from the North East Autism Society, sharing real voices and lived experiences to help us all understand autism a little better. Listen now, and join the movement towards awareness, inclusion and understanding.

 

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