News

Supporting young people to express themselves confidently and authentically is at the heart of our work, and this spring, a new project at The Connect Centre aims to do exactly that.

Create & Connect: LGBTQIA+, an 8‑week creative wellbeing programme, launches on Tuesday 3rd March 2026, offering a gentle, affirming space designed specifically for autistic young people aged 12–18 who also identify as LGBTQIA+, or are exploring their identity.

Hosted at The Connect Centre, 227 Gosbecks Road, Colchester, CO2 9JT, the programme runs weekly from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, concluding on Tuesday 21st April 2026. Sessions are completely free to attend thanks to generous support from the Boshier Grant Scheme, administered by the National Autistic Society.

A Creative Wellbeing Project Rooted in Acceptance

Create & Connect has been intentionally designed to give LGBTQIA+ autistic young people a supportive, low‑pressure environment where they can explore identity, community, and self‑expression in ways that feel comfortable and empowering. Every session is delivered by Autism Anglia staff and supported by local LGBTQIA+ organisations, creating a space that is safe, relatable, and fully affirming.

Young people do not need a formal autism diagnosis to join, an important step in ensuring access for those still on waiting lists or exploring their needs. The course is limited to 8 participants, helping to keep the group calm, connected, and personal.

Creative Journaling at the Heart of the Programme

The core activity in Create & Connect is creative journaling, a reflective and expressive tool that allows young people to explore:

• Identity and self‑expression
• Emotions and personal experiences
• Creativity in its many forms

Alongside journaling, participants can choose from a variety of calming, sensory‑friendly activities, encouraging them to express themselves in whatever way feels right.

As one previous art journaling participant shared:
“It has allowed me to express myself through art…” — Savannah

Another reflected on the social benefits of the programme:
“…Helped me to open up and chat to others…” — Jonathan

These voices underline the programme’s impact. Not only as a creative outlet, but as a gentle confidence‑builder for young people who may find social spaces challenging.

Designed With Wellbeing in Mind

Every aspect of the project is crafted to be supportive, sensory‑aware, and inclusive, ensuring young people feel relaxed enough to express themselves authentically. Sessions are intentionally small and structured to:

• Build trust and confidence over time
• Encourage friendships and connection
• Support identity exploration without pressure

Participants must be accompanied by an adult, reinforcing the safe and supportive environment the programme aims to nurture.

Programme Dates & Commitment

Because Create & Connect is built around continuity and trust, it is important that young people can attend all eight sessions. By applying, families confirm availability for every session on the following dates:

• Tuesday 3rd March 2026
• Tuesday 10th March 2026
• Tuesday 17th March 2026
• Tuesday 24th March 2026
• Tuesday 31st March 2026
• Tuesday 7th April 2026
• Tuesday 14th April 2026
• Tuesday 21st April 2026

Applying does not guarantee a place; Autism Anglia will review each application and contact families directly once places are confirmed.

Creating Inclusive Spaces Across East Anglia

Autism Anglia’s commitment to supporting LGBTQIA+ young people reflects a broader organisation‑wide dedication to inclusion. By creating spaces where autistic LGBTQIA+ young people can explore identity and connect with others who understand their experiences, Create & Connect helps:

• Strengthen confidence and self‑advocacy
• Reduce feelings of isolation
• Promote emotional wellbeing
• Foster a sense of community belonging

This is particularly important given the additional barriers LGBTQIA+ autistic young people may face in some mainstream settings.

Why Creative Wellbeing Matters

Creative expression offers powerful benefits for neurodivergent young people, including:

• Improved emotional regulation
• Reduced anxiety
• A meaningful outlet for self‑expression
• Opportunities for social connection without pressure

Paired with the affirming LGBTQIA+ focus, Create & Connect becomes more than an art project, it becomes a safe haven for identity development, emotional growth, and community building.

How to Apply

Families interested in joining the March–April 2026 programme can apply via the link on our event page and the team will contact applicants once places have been allocated. Given the small group size, early applications are encouraged.

Want to Support Programmes Like Create & Connect?

Businesses, funders, and community partners play a crucial role in enabling Autism Anglia to run projects like this one. From sponsorship to fundraising to partnership opportunities, there are many ways to help expand inclusive programmes across East Anglia.

If you would like more information on how you or your business can support Autism Anglia, please email fundraising@autism-anglia.org.uk