Publish date: 2 September 2025
Last week, the Autism Spectrum Condition Health Facilitation Team hosted the Beyond Spectrum, Women’s Health Event at Willis House.
The event focused on supporting the physical health and emotional wellbeing of autistic women - who are statistically more likely to experience a range of health challenges compared to both non-autistic women and autistic men.
Organised by Joanna Nowak, Autism and Mental Health Advanced Practitioner, Louise Ashton, and Sarah Edwards, Support Workers and offered a safe, inclusive space to explore health topics beyond stereotypes - promoting empowerment, education, and advocacy.
Attendees engaged with stalls and discussions on:
- Weight management
- Cancer screenings
- Smoking cessation
- Contraception
- Oral hygiene
- Menopause education.
The menopause session stood out, receiving especially positive feedback for its clarity, relatability, and supportive tone.
Smear tests were offered in both the clinic and mobile unit, and the full team was present to help reduce anxiety and encourage open conversations around personal health.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the value of:
- Practical guidance and real conversations
- The small, invitation only format, which helped create a safe and respectful atmosphere
- The opportunity to connect and share experiences with others.
Suggestions for future events included:
- Adding mental health and stress management workshops
- Expanding outreach to reach more women
- Offering more interactive sessions and guest speakers
- Hosting events in a larger, more spacious venue.
This feedback is vital in helping us shape future services. It reinforces the importance of creating tailored, autism informed health experiences that meet the real needs of autistic women.
A huge thank you to all staff involved and to everyone who attended and contributed to making the day a success.
