National Autistic Society (NAS)
We provide support groups, advice and information to autistic adults and families living and working in Exeter and the surrounding areas.
Website: www.autism.org.uk/directory/n/nas-exeter-and-district-branch
Autism Resources and Useful Contacts
A document with other helpful signposting information such as links to bitesize videos on understanding behaviour and a directory on organisations and services.
Document here: ASC-Useful-Information (PDF, 583KB)
Action for Asperger’s
Bespoke specialist counselling and emotional support for those with Asperger’s syndrome and those living alongside them. Note, this is not a crisis service. They offer confidential counselling services (individual or couples relationship counselling, usually via video calls), a one-off emotional support service for ‘flare up’ situations, private messaging via ‘Action for Asperger’s’ Facebook page and brief email support.
Please note this is a paid service – couples counselling costs £50 per hour. There is also the option to have a student counsellor at £22.50 per hour or an emotional support worker at £17.50 per hour.
Tel: 01536 266681
Dimensions for Autism
Providing support to adults on the autistic spectrum who do not have a learning disability in Devon. Main group meetings are monthly in either Newton Abbot or Exeter on Thursday afternoons. They also have monthly sub-groups.
Website: Dimensions for Autism
Booking and attending screenings whilst living with Autism
https://www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/visiting-us/inpatients/
Key Considerations for Booking
- Request Adjustments Early: Call the screening service listed on your invitation letter to discuss specific needs (e.g., needing more time to process information, reducing sensory overload).
- Pre-visit/Walkthrough: Ask if it is possible to visit the unit beforehand to meet staff and see the mammogram machine without the pressure of an examination.
- Bring Support: A support worker, family member, or Carer is permitted to accompany you for support.
- Hospital Passport: Use a hospital passport to inform staff about communication preferences and specific needs. https://www.torbay.gov.uk/media/20562/health-passport.pdf (EXTERNAL PDF LINK)
Autism Central
Autism Central is a peer education service delivered by mental health charity Anna Freud that provides autism education and support for parents, families and wider support networks of all autistic people.
They offer families education, coaching, and connection through resources, one-to-one peer support, and group learning events. Families and support networks of autistic people can access and book on the Autism Central website.