The work and views of local people with learning disabilities have reached a special committee of the House of Lords reviewing national legislation on autism.
Members of the Art Group at Ilkley’s Outside the Box produced a range of heartfelt messages calling for greater support, understanding and inclusivity for autistic individuals and submitted these, together with photographs representing their diversity and unique personalities, to the committee.
Each member wrote a personal message to the House of Lords, which was presented at the Autism Act 2009 Committee meeting on Monday 24th March. Their heartfelt messages included:
"There needs to be more support and understanding of people with autism and disabilities."
"Do not take people at face value—dig deeper."
"Allow people to 'go for it' when they are able and allow them to 'stop' when they are not, and offer support to help them succeed."
"Support organisations such as Outside the Box to help."
"Heed the warning from history—do not try to make everyone the same."
To accompany their messages, the group captured a photograph at Outside the Box holding multi-coloured hands to symbolise the diverse spectrum and unique personalities of people with learning disabilities and autism.
Professor Mark Mon-Williams, a leading academic and autism researcher who was presenting evidence to the House of Lords Committee, shared his appreciation of the work of the group, commenting that:
“I was delighted to share your thoughts and pictures with the Committee. Your thoughts are invaluable and it is only by sharing our experiences and knowledge that we can hope to build a country that works for everyone. The Committee was very grateful for your contribution and said they would include this evidence when drawing up their recommendations.”
Outside the Box (OTB), a charitable social enterprise dedicated to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism, is celebrating Autism Acceptance Week running from the 31st March 2025. Activities include an artistic display created by the OTB Art and Craft Groups, themed cakes and bakes in the Café and much more!
Amy Robinson, the charity’s Marketing and Events Manager says:
“Everyone is invited to join in the celebrations, visit the café and show support for autism acceptance and inclusion. Our members have shown what can be achieved by coming together to share experiences and speak out, and we are rightly very proud of all their work and achievements.”
For more information about Outside the Box and our work, follow them on social media @outsidetheboxcafe