PEOPLE across the world are expected to join the audience of a virtual conference being held by a North East autism charity next month.

The annual Acceptance Matters conference, hosted by the North East Autism Society (NEAS) on May 16, will bring together a range of autistic experts to share their lived experience, knowledge, and professional expertise.

The day-long conference, held via Zoom, has been a success in previous years and attracts an international audience, with attendees signing up from as far as Canada and the United States.

Following Autism Acceptance month in April, the conference aims to educate a wider audience about the lives and experiences of autistic people, contribute to changing the negative narratives around autism, and celebrate neurodiversity.

Family Development Manager at NEAS, and conference host, Kerrie Highcock, said: “We are really looking forward to hosting our fourth Acceptance Matters conference this May.

"There’s an incredible line-up of speakers this year, and it’s brilliant to see attendees signing up from across the country, and even outside the UK, to hear them talk about subjects that are so important to discuss, and affect people far beyond the North East.”

The day’s line-up of guest speakers and subjects will feature:

  • Quinn Dexter – Autism & work: Accepting unacceptable acceptance
  • Dr Chloe Farahar – Autistic wellbeing: What works?
  • Ruth Jenks – Communication as autistic parents
  • Pete Wharmby – Accepting difference, understanding autistic experience

There will also be a Q&A session at the end of the day where viewers can submit their questions to the panel of speakers.

Kerrie said: “Although the conference is virtual, spaces are limited, so we’re encouraging people to book early to avoid missing out on some great talks.”

Tickets for the event are available through the NEAS website, and early birds can get their tickets for the discounted price of £12 if they book before 20 April, after which the price of tickets will be £15.

Everyone who registers will receive a Zoom link to join the conference, as well as a recording of the event afterwards.

To purchase a ticket, or for more information on the conference or speakers, visit: https://www.ne-as.org.uk/acceptance-matters