- Diagnosed or self-identify as autistic and want to learn more what does it mean for you?<\/li>
- Need to come to terms with being autistic?<\/li>
- Would like to meet other autistic peolple and hear their stories and strategies?<\/li>
- Need 1:1 support to build confidence, wellbeing and positive identity?<\/li>
- Would just like to lurk and listen until you are more comfortable?<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whatever stage of autism journey you are at, this support package will offer the right support for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This service is free for autistic people because it is funded by the Derbyshire Integrated Care Board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We at Neurodiverse Self Advocacy (NDSA) are managing this service for all the partners delivering the package. Other partners are ANC and Wellbeing Whizz.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Designed and delivered by autistic autism professionals, this service promotes peer support and agency and empowerment of autistic people. We take a neuroafirmative strengths based approach and celebrate the autistic differences and way of being. We promote confidence, wellbeing, positive autistic identity and self-advocacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Autistic people told NDSA that they prefer support delivered by autistic peers and autistic professionals, that they want a mix of online and face-to-face, one to one and group support and an option for self-paced online course and support group. This service is designed to offer such experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The post diagnostic package includes a choice of 1:1 support in combination with online and face-to face groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I think it is that we are welcomed to turn up in the way that suits us best, that we are welcomed to give feedback and share as much or as little as we want, no cutting people off or telling them they are wrong to be the way they are. A safe and accepting place to be autistic.\u201d<\/em><\/strong> <\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Welcome, support and orientation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Email: marta.walkowski@ndsa.uk<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tel: 07907176827<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Meet the team<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pathway Mentoring Programme<\/strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- 20 1:1 online mentoring sessions<\/li>
- Online course<\/li>
- A support group of autistic people<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
ANC coaching<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Six 1:1 sessions on specific issues<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Wellbeing Whizz<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- Up to two 1:1 support sessions<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
i-Autistic<\/strong> support and learning group<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- 6 sessions of learning, exploration and discussion<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Local face to face<\/strong> monthly drop in social and information group sessions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Locations are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Derby, Belper, Chesterfield, Matlock, Long Eaton, Swadlincote, Glossop, and also online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Register for face-to-face sessions here: https:\/\/www.eventbrite.co.uk\/o\/ndsa-uk-68355672563<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Enrolment open to:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Derbyshire autistic residents<\/li>
- Diagnosed or self-identified<\/li>
- Adults 18+ (no upper age limit).<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
To enrol in any of the above activities except face to face groups register here <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nRegister<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSee more details below<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nPathway Mentoring Programme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The programme is now full.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is the programme to understand what autism means to you, to recognise your strengths, set your goals and progress towards them. We are helping autistic people to achieve self-knowledge, confidence, and significantly better wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Do you need to understand what it means and doesn\u2019t mean to be autistic?
\u2022 Struggling to set and achieve your goals?
\u2022 Need a supportive community to navigate your autistic identity?
<\/p>\n\n\n\nTake a step towards better confidence and wellbeing and join the NDSA Pathway mentoring programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The programme is designed by autistic people for autistic people based on research by Damian Milton. It includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- 20 weekly one hour online 1:1 mentoring sessions with a trained autistic mentor<\/li>
- A series of talks and discussions about exploring autism and wellbeing (online course)<\/li>
- A weekly online support group.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
“The programme content has been so great, and it really feels like an amazing space because (a) everyone understands (and I\u2019d gone my whole life thinking no one could understand me), (b) I was *so* inspired, right from the start, by Marie & Co for setting it all up (seeing what amazing autistic individuals on a forum can do working together dispelled any feelings I was useless or broken or ineffective \u2013 we can be powerful), but ALSO by the other people in the group \u2013 I identified with them, saw how they were ND and really liked them for it (I could NEVER like myself before I knew I was ND) \u2013 just the first information session was a great start for a positive autistic ID! NDSA has made such an amazing difference to my life in such a short time. I really mean it. The discussions are so good too \u2013 there\u2019s a real hive mind thing going on. People saying things you thought were only ever in your head.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Learn more about what others say<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our Pathway mentoring programme will take you on a journey to explore and re-think positively what it means (and doesn\u2019t mean) to be autistic and to help you to feel effective, empowered and tangibly improve your wellbeing by exploring your strengths and setting and achieving your goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The mentoring will help you to problem solve, to understand your strengths, sort out a sense of direction in your life and gain confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Goal oriented problem solving, positive autistic identity and a sense of connected-ness and belonging are central to autistic wellbeing and quality of life. This is best achieved in a community of autistic people.
Our Pathway programme provides such a community where you can be your au-thentic self without being judged. Feeling empathized with, accepted, and validated goes a long way towards building wellbeing, agency, and resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRegister for the future: https:\/\/www.reg.ndsa.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Learn more: https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/pathway-wellbeing-mentoring-programme\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to use Zoom video-conferencing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Learn how to use video-conferencing like Zoom here<\/a>. If you need support get in touch with us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"\/](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Picture2-1024x575.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nAutism and Neurodiversity Coaching<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ben offers up to 6 individual coaching sessions on specific issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This service is aimed at individuals who would benefit from short term coaching on specific topics, especially Autism & ADHD.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also available for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \uf0a8 Dyspraxia<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>OCD<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Anxiety<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Entrepreneurs & creatives<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Those who have had issues in workplaces such as office environments<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Those involved in sports<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Identifying strengths<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Coping mechanisms<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Executive functioning<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Life skills\/hacks<\/li>
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Social skills<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
This is not an exhaustive list, our aim is to provide you with the best support possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Delivered by a qualified Autism Practitioner with lived experience of Autism, ADHD, Dyspraxia, OCD & Anxiety<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\u201cBen is a great coach. He has an excellent understanding of neurodiversity and autism, and I gained a lot from my coaching sessions with him. […] As someone who, at the time, was fairly recently diagnosed with ASC and trying to come to terms with my diagnosis, Ben’s support was really invaluable.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Register: https:\/\/www.reg.ndsa.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nWellbeing Whizz<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Up to two wellbeing 1:1 coaching sessions. This includes an initial appointment and a follow up. These calm and supportive sessions offer space to process your diagnosis or any other aspect of your wellbeing, ask questions, and take empowering steps forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Abby is a neurodivergent wellbeing specialist combining personal and professional experience to provide one-to-one wellbeing sessions for autistic adults. These stand-alone sessions offer a calm, supportive and non-judgmental space to process your diagnosis, explore what it means for you, and begin to build confidence in your autistic identity. Abby works in a neuroaffirming, strengths-based way\u2014helping you feel heard, understood, and supported to take steps toward a more balanced and empowered life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt was exactly what I needed and you have given me food for thought. It was great to be vulnerable with you and share the limiting beliefs that have been stopping me from growing my business. Thank you for being so easy to open up to and I can’t wait for our next check-in.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Register: https:\/\/www.reg.ndsa.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\ni-Autistic<\/strong> support and learning group<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Join us for a 6-week support group for autistic individuals, their families, and support networks.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This group is facilitated by autistic professionals with lived experience, offering expert insights into autism and practical strategies for thriving, better health and wellbeing.<\/strong> There is a group discussion people sharing strategies and experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Attend?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- The meetings programme covers a wide variety of topics, including:<\/li>
- Neurodiversity and autistic people\u2019s rights<\/li>
- Autism theories and communication strategies<\/li>
- Sensory sensitivities, meltdowns, and burnout<\/li>
- Wellbeing and mental health management tools<\/li>
- Strengths-based approaches and resilience building<\/li>
- Social prescribing and transition planning<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Practical, Actionable Strategies:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
We will introduce you to real-world, hands-on strategies that can be immediately applied in everyday situations. You will gain tools that can help improve well-being and enhance social and environmental links.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When: <\/strong>Every Thursday at 1 pm, or Tuesdays at 7 pm online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We will gauge the demant for face-to-face groups, so contact Marta at marta.walkowski@ndsa.uk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Register: https:\/\/www.eventbrite.co.uk\/o\/ndsa-uk-68355672563<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nLocal face to face<\/strong> monthly drop ins<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
These are social and information group sessions held monthly, an autism-friendly space to connect, relax and feel supported<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This group is facilitated by autistic professionals with lived experience, offering expert insights into autism and practical strategies for thriving, better health and wellbeing.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
What does it inolve?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Meet other autistic people<\/li>
- Learn more about autism and being autistic<\/li>
- Socialise and have a laugh<\/li>
- Play board games<\/li>
- Have a discussion about practical autism thriving strategies<\/li>
- Feel accepted and supported by the autistic community<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Locations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matlock \u2013 1st Monday of the month \u2013 1-3 pm. Book at: https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/autism-drop-in-session-in-matlock-tickets-1388292443069<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Long Eaton \u2013 1st Wed \u2013 1-3 pm. Book at: https:\/\/bit.ly\/3FPUfCY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Belper \u2013 2nd Wednesday of the month 4-6 pm. Book at: https:\/\/bit.ly\/4ndCfDF<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Swadlincote \u2013 3rd Monday of the month \u2013 12:30 \u2013 2:30 pm. Book at: https:\/\/bit.ly\/45iRpkj<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Derby (afternoon) \u2013 3rd Wednesday of the month 4-6 pm. Book at: https:\/\/bit.ly\/3HRg6ug<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chesterfield \u2013 4th Wednesday of the month 4-6 pm. Book at: https:\/\/shorturl.at\/A41D7<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Glossop – 3rd Monday at 1 to 3 pm. Book: https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/autism-drop-in-meetup-in-glossop-tickets-1964398957161<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Online (evening) \u2013 3rd Wednesday of the month 6:30-8:30 pm. Book at: https:\/\/shorturl.at\/WRCWo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Joined](\"https:\/\/joinedupcarederbyshire.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/JoinedUpCareDerbyshireLogo2022_250x87.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow to use Zoom video-conferencing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Learn how to use video-conferencing like Zoom here<\/a>. If you need support get in touch with us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
Other support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
For inhabitants of Derbyshire County (not for Derby City):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We offer 121 coaching and group training sessions. All services are remote. There are 3 coaches and 3 trainers delivering the sessions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To note – we cover the whole of Derbyshire except Derby City Council due to it being a Derbyshire County Council led contract. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our website:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.derbyshireautismese.co.uk\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Current Training dates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.derbyshireautismese.co.uk\/training-dates\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Contact page:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.derbyshireautismese.co.uk\/contact-us\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Referral form<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \uf0a8 <\/strong>Anxiety<\/li>
- 6 sessions of learning, exploration and discussion<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Up to two 1:1 support sessions<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Six 1:1 sessions on specific issues<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![DAESE-training-adult-<\/a>](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DAESE-training-adult-.png\"){kind=link}
![DAESE-training-1618<\/a>](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DAESE-training-1618.png\"){kind=link}
![DAESE-121-Adult<\/a>](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DAESE-121-Adult.png\"){kind=link}
![Space-to-Explore-leaflet-Sept-to-Dec-25-front<\/a>](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Space-to-Explore-leaflet-Sept-to-Dec-25-front.png\"){kind=link}
![Space-to-Explore-leaflet-Sept-to-Dec-25-back<\/a>](\"https:\/\/ndsa.uk\/tool-up\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Space-to-Explore-leaflet-Sept-to-Dec-25-back.png\"){kind=link}