LGBTQ+ group for autistic adults to be launched in Bitterne

31st July 2024

Autism Hampshire is expanding support for autistic adults in Hampshire by launching two new community groups in Totton and Bitterne.

This is the first time Autism Hampshire will be running a specific LGBTQ+ group after existing members asked for more support and focus on the LGBTQ+ community.

The new groups for autistic adults, called Serendipity Community Groups, are a safe place for autistic people to meet other autistic adults, receive peer support, learn new skills, and share their interests.

The groups are open to any autistic adult over the age of 18, even if they are still waiting a diagnosis or have chosen not to receive a formal diagnosis.

An existing member said: "I value that space once a fortnight. Life can be really hard and I look forward to reflecting and processing in the group.

“I find it really helpful to hear that other people experience life in the same way as an autistic person. Serendipity is a space where I can be myself. The group leaders are brilliant and willingly give us their all."

Thanks to the help of volunteers across the county, there are two online groups, three skills-based groups and 10 social groups currently run in Swanmore, Bordon, Basingstoke, Portsmouth, Southampton, the New Forest including New Milton, Shirley, Havant, Fareham, Eastleigh, Winchester. People do not have to attend the group closest to where they live.

Serendipity Coordinator Sophie Palmer said: “Through the services we offer, we support a lot of autistic individuals with a range of sexual orientations so it’s great that we’re able to provide a safe space for autistic people to come together who may have had similar experiences.

“Some people may find the idea of coming to a group a bit challenging but that is what we’re there for. We’ll support people in a way that is best for them – that could be simply watching a session or coming for a small part of the session.

“Being autistic myself, I know how important these groups are to people, building a local community and preventing isolation. So I’m looking forward to starting these groups and having a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Whilst some groups have a specific focus, the majority of the content is led by the members including anything from games and crafts to discussions and life skills.

The new group in Totton will run twice a month on a Friday from 1.15pm to 3.15pm starting 23rd August.

The new LGBTQ+ group in Bitterne will run twice a month on a Monday from 10am to 12pm starting 12th August.

Please contact Autism Hampshire for exact dates, locations and to sign up for free.

Simply fill out the online registration form here: www.autismhampshire.org.uk/serendipityGroups. Alternatively, email Serendipity@autismhampshire.org.uk or contact 01489 880881 (ext. 225).