Friday, 24th April from 9.30am

April 24th marks the exciting return of Acceptance Matters, the North East Autism Society’s virtual conference dedicated to amplifying autistic voices, challenging outdated thinking, and championing real, meaningful change. This year’s event brings together an inspiring panel of autistic speakers whose lived experience, research, and professional expertise offer deep insight into the challenges and opportunities facing autistic people today. 

Designed for families, professionals, educators and anyone passionate about neurodiversity, the conference provides a space to learn, reflect and explore what true acceptance looks like in practice. 

Conference Schedule

9.30 - 9.45

Introduction to the conference 

9.45 - 10.45

Sarah Meharg and Ben Usher-Barrass – Reasonable Adjustments in Work, Health and Education 

10.45 - 11

Break

11 - 12

Charlie HamiltonBeyond Professional Identification: Supporting Late‑Diagnosed Autistic Women 

12 - 1

Lunch Break

1 - 2

Luke Beardon – Where Has All the Energy Gone? 

2 - 2.10

Break

2.10 - 3.10

Tristan Kluibenschadl – The Fight: A Family Experience 

3.15-3.35

Q&A session with all speakers