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Recently, we had the privilege of attending VISIBLE, Norfolk’s Neurodiversity Festival, held at The Forum in Norwich. The event, hosted by NANSA, formed a powerful continuation of our Neurodiversity Celebration Week activities, bringing people together to celebrate, learn, and amplify the voices of neurodivergent individuals across the region.

VISIBLE took place across 17th and 18th March 2026, and The Forum was filled with energy, colour, and a genuine passion for creating a more understanding and inclusive society.

We attended the first day, and it was a fantastic opportunity to meet visitors, organisations, and advocates all working towards the same goal of building a world where neurodivergent people feel fully supported, valued, and heard.

A Festival Dedicated to Neurodivergent Voices

One of the most inspiring aspects of VISIBLE was its clear commitment to placing neurodivergent people at the heart of the event. Through talks, information stands, and interactive sessions, attendees were encouraged to think differently, to challenge assumptions, and to celebrate the strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent people bring to our communities.

The festival created a space where lived experience and professional expertise worked hand in hand. Visitors had the chance to:

• Listen to insightful presentations
• Explore a diverse range of support organisations
• Learn more about autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurodivergences
• Engage in meaningful conversations about inclusion, support, and positive change
• Connect with people who share similar experiences

It was clear from the moment we arrived that VISIBLE was more than an event. It was a celebration. A reminder of the power of community, shared understanding, and the importance of each individual’s story.

Autism Anglia in the Community

Representing Autism Anglia on the day were Jess from our Community Connect Team and Anna from our Fundraising Team, who thoroughly enjoyed speaking with the many people who stopped by our stand. They shared information about our services, listened to personal stories, and offered guidance to those wanting to learn more about autism support across East Anglia.

Popular topics on the day were:

• Our adult day services
• Youth programmes such as Youth Connect and Create & Connect in Essex.
• Support for families
• Upcoming events and ways to get involved
• Our role during Neurodiversity Celebration Week and beyond

The conversations were thoughtful, honest, and full of warmth, with many attendees expressing how valuable it was to speak directly with a charity that understands the realities faced by autistic people and their families.

A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere

Throughout the day, the festival atmosphere remained open, supportive, and filled with positivity. The Forum buzzed with people eager to connect, learn, and celebrate difference. From community groups and educators to parents, employers, and individuals exploring their own neurodivergent identities, there was a shared sense of purpose running through every interaction.

Events like VISIBLE play such an essential role in increasing understanding. They help:

• Reduce stigma
• Build confidence in neurodivergent people
• Promote acceptance in workplaces and communities
• Support families seeking guidance
• Strengthen regional networks of support

Seeing so many people engage so enthusiastically in these conversations was incredibly encouraging.

Why Events Like VISIBLE Matters

Neurodiversity Celebration Week provides an important opportunity each year to recognise the value that neurodivergent people bring to all areas of life. But festivals like VISIBLE extend that message further. They give communities a tangible place to gather, to learn, and to feel seen.

For autistic and neurodivergent individuals, representation matters. Support matters. Understanding matters.
And events like VISIBLE help make that possible.

For Autism Anglia, being part of this festival reinforced our commitment to:

• Championing neurodivergent voices
• Advocating for better understanding across society
• Providing support services that respect individuality
• Creating opportunities for connection and empowerment

We left the festival feeling inspired by the people we met and energised to continue driving change across East Anglia.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone at NANSA for hosting such an impactful event, everyone who took the time to visit our stand, as well as all the speakers, volunteers, and organisations who contributed. Your passion and commitment to neurodiversity made this festival truly memorable.

Want to Stay Involved?

If you didn’t catch us at VISIBLE, or if you’d like to learn more about the work we do at Autism Anglia, we’d love to connect with you. Whether you’re looking for support, information, training, or opportunities to get involved, our team is here to help.

👉 Get in touch to learn more about our services and how you can be part of creating a more inclusive East Anglia.

Together, we can continue building communities where neurodivergent people feel understood, supported, and celebrated. Not just during Neurodiversity Celebration Week, but all year round. 🙌