Our Values

What we know and care about:

To provide actionable steps and guidance that people can implement in their lives, places of work and communities.
To encourage the view of neurodiversity as neurological differences - not ‘disorders’.
To create a world where everyone is free to be themselves, regulate themselves, express themselves, and thrive without judgment or prejudice.
To change people’s view of stimming, so that it is understood, normalised and embraced by everyone.
To create change through education and awareness.

The needs of the Neurodivergent Community is at the heart of every decision and communication that we make.
We aim to serve the Neurodivergent Community, magnifying their voice and needs. We are working with and for the Neurodivergent Community, as equals.
Create spaces where neurodivergent people are seen, heard and valued.
Create and encourage brave spaces; where people feel safe to share their experiences and connect with others.

Our biggest resource for learning is the neurodivergent community.
After interacting with us, we want each individual to feel seen, heard and valued.
We understand that together we are better.
We work with everyone as equals, with the view that each individual has their own unique experience and knowledge to share.
We will work with families, communities, institutions, and society at large to promote awareness and understanding of stimming.

We believe that:

Every individual, regardless of their neurodiversity, should be free to express themselves and care for themselves authentically.
For too long the Neurodivergent Community has been “othered”.
For too long, stimming has been misunderstood, discouraged and stigmatised.
Everyone deserves to be themselves without fear of judgment.
Everyone deserves to be equal.

We encourage everyone to enter a “brave space”, where difficult conversations are had with respect, transparency and authenticity.
We aim to embrace change and be prepared to break societal norms; and support others to do so too.
To believe in standing up for the things that we believe are right, even when it is difficult.

We aim to create a culture of curiosity for everyone; where there is openness to learning, growing and embracing change.
We aim to avoid assumptions; instead if something is not clear we will seek clarity.
We encourage people to experiment with different types of stims in different settings to determine which ones suit and help them.
We encourage everyone to grow in curiosity about stimming and the value that it can bring.
We encourage everyone to engage in respectful conversations in relation to stimming.

We aim to ensure that all communication is autism-appropriate:

Using clear and concrete language.
Using Identity-first language, e.g. “autistic person” (not person-first language, e.g. “person with autism”).
Using affirmative language, e.g. “difference” (not “disorder”).
Using emotionally-supportive language, e.g. “It’s safe to express your feelings here” (not “You shouldn't feel that way”).
Not using metaphors - saying what we mean.
Not using academic or complicated language, wherever possible so that as many people can understand our messages.

So that people feel listened to and valued, we aim to engage and encourage communication that:

We will make active changes in response to constructive feedback.