Autism Oxford UK traces its origins to the pioneering efforts of the Oxfordshire-based charity ‘Children in Touch’. In 1999, they hosted the groundbreaking International Conference, ‘The Search for Coherence from the Fragments of Autism’, at Christchurch College, Oxford. It was during this event that the name ‘Autism Oxford’ was first coined. We extend our gratitude to the late Sheila Coates, the trustees of Children in Touch, and the conference organisers for granting us permission to adopt the name ‘Autism Oxford’.
Formerly recognised as ‘Autism Speakers and Professionals’, Autism Oxford was established in 2007 by Kathy Erangey. Its inception was a response to the pressing need for comprehensive, affordable training on Autistic Spectrum Condition for professionals and families. Functioning initially as a small-scale enterprise with social objectives, Autism Oxford has achieved significant milestones over the years. Notably, it played a pivotal role in establishing the Adult Autism Assessment NHS pathway in Oxfordshire. It also delivered the first autistic-led training sessions for professionals in the region. Moreover, Autism Oxford spearheaded the development of the Autism Alert Card scheme in collaboration with the former CCG and Thames Valley Police. The National Autistic Society formally recognised these efforts through their organisational awards.
In 2020, Kathy retired, passing the stewardship of Autism Oxford UK to Kimberley Ashwin, a distinguished dyslexic leader and Autism Consultant Nurse with a background in learning disability nursing within the NHS. Kimberley’s professional accolades include being shortlisted for the National Learning Disability and Autism Awards in 2018 and receiving invitations to speak at the Houses of Parliament. She has contributed significantly to service development in the NHS, notably leading the Greenlight Toolkit for Oxfordshire. Additionally, Kimberley has served on the NICE committee for ADHD, acted as a clinical expert for CT(E)R’s, and co-chairs the National Autism Consultant Nurse Network, advocating for national policy changes benefiting autistic individuals.
Kimberley’s commitment revolves around upholding Autism Oxford’s legacy through lived experience incorporation and ensuring co-development and co-delivery in all aspects of Autism Oxford UK’s initiatives. As a mother of three children, two of whom are autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic, her dedication to this cause is deeply personal.
Autism Oxford UK remains dedicated to ensuring timely access to appropriate support for Neurodivergent (ADHD, Dyspraxic and autistics) individuals and their support networks, while also championing the inclusion of autistic individuals in the workforce. While a growing business with an expanding workforce, Autism Oxford UK also extends its support to the broader neurodivergent community, offering assessments and assistance to individuals with ADHD, Dyspraxia, Learning Disabilities, and Specific Learning Difficulties.
Expanding its scope beyond Oxfordshire, Autism Oxford UK now offers services nationally and internationally. For instance, the organisation has supported the continuous professional development initiatives of the Latvian National Autistic Society. Autism Oxford UK continues to host international conferences, inviting global allies to present and share expertise. Special recognition is due to Dr. Michelle Garnett, Professor Tony Attwood, and Brian Bird for their unwavering support and endorsement of our endeavours, contributing their expertise to our cause.
The team at Autism Oxford UK aspires to establish itself as a Centre of Excellence, bringing together a diverse range of expertise under one umbrella and providing one place for neurodivergent people and their support networks to access the right support at the right time.
