Spotlight Interview- The National Autistic Society

We chat with Gemma Watkins from the National Autistic Society.

Tell us about your organisation?

NAS Swansea is a volunteer led branch and part of National Autistic Society it is run by volunteers who have a link to Autism if it’s a child or they are Autistic themselves with a passion to help other families and support them. 

We have been going for 10 years and our group has grown from a few families to 4000 members on our private page, ranging from parents, grandparents, siblings, and PA, all supporting us and us supporting them. We have members from outside Swansea to join us weekly as we would never turn anyone away if they need that support, It doesn’t matter if you’re diagnosed or on the pathway as we know that it’s a long wait and this is the most important time for support.

Tell us about the projects and support that you offer to people in Swansea?

We run events through the Swansea area from Buzz trampoline Park, swimming, play area, bunkers, ninja, plus many more thoughout the school holidays. We do coffee mornings, walking clubs and some arts and crafts during some days for the parents to chat as that’s just as important to have some me time with people who understand.

We have a monthly Peer to Peer event for our Autistic Adults who meet, chat and play games. 

NAS Swansea have built up some great relationships in the last few years and support Swansea Council and the acceptability areas at the Airshow, fireworks, Christmas parade. We support Smyths toy store with their quiet shopping experience which are on the last Friday of the month, as-well as the Grand Theatre Panto. 

Where do you see the organisation in ten years?

I see NAS Swansea growing and helping more families, new members coming and our members still getting the support they need, another 10 years of making memories. I've been with the branch 6 years and the last 2 years we have grown so much and celebrated at NASfest it shows that Bigger things can come.  

Where can people find you online?

We welcome all and our support is there for all parents, grandparents, PAs and siblings it doesn’t matter what your situation is.

We have private Facebook social media pages you can join.

NAS Swansea members page which all our event links go on and more private information.

NAS Swansea parent/carer page that is for questions big or small, if you want to share some great information or just rant, it’s only members no professionals unless they are parents themselves. All we ask is 2 questions to join it. But it doesn’t matter if you're on the pathway or have been diagnosed.

If you’re not on social media, it’s ok we can take your email and email links out to you.