On 4 April 2025, The Exchange in Birmingham became a space for something rare, an autism event where emotion was not only welcomed, but embraced.
Led by EDA (Emotion Dysregulation in Autism) charity, the Autism Summit brought together 59 people from different walks of life. Autistic young people, peer support mentors, professionals and policymakers gathered with one shared focus: to create space for real, honest conversations about autism and mental health.
As official sponsors, Autism & ADHD Assessment Hub had the privilege of supporting an event that centred voices with lived experience, both in inpatient settings and in the community.
The day opened with a keynote from a peer mentor, followed by thoughtful and impactful talks from young people who shared their experiences navigating services, emotions and identity. These were not rehearsed speeches. They were unfiltered, honest reflections — and they carried weight.
The summit also offered insight into EDA’s mission, vision and values, with a clear message throughout: emotional dysregulation should not be viewed as something to fix, but as a part of the wider autistic experience that deserves understanding and support.
Throughout the day, keynote listeners from NHS England, Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Children’s Trust and other organisations tuned in — not to respond, but to listen. That in itself felt meaningful.
We were also grateful for the opportunity to share a little about our work at Autism & ADHD Assessment Hub and the importance of compassionate, post diagnostic support. It was a small part of the day, but a valuable moment to reflect on what care can look like when it is guided by respect and understanding.
The afternoon continued with a focus on peer mentorship in the community, real case studies and a forward looking discussion about what comes next for EDA. From start to finish, the event remained rooted in its purpose , not just to raise awareness, but to advocate for lasting change.
For us, it was a reminder that the most important expertise often comes from those with lived experience. We are proud to have played a part in this event and look forward to seeing how EDA continues to grow, advocate and lead.
At Autism & ADHD Assessment Hub, we remain committed to supporting autistic individuals in a way that is grounded in community, informed by lived experience and rooted in respect.