World Autism Awareness Day | Lewis’ Story

To mark World Autism Awareness Day, the Foundation is highlighting Lewis, a participant of the adult disability programme.

World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognised initiative that aims to highlight the need to provide opportunities to, as well as increasing understanding and acceptance of those with autism.

Lewis has been a participant of our adult disability sessions for around a year and a half and has explained his experience of living with autism, as well as how much attending the Foundation’s sessions has helped him.

“Sometimes it can be a bit of a difficult thing having autism, but it does have its advantages,” Lewis said, speaking at the session on Thursday evening.

“Obviously the group here help brilliantly with my communication, my physical ability, I’ve only been with the squad fifteen months, but it’s helped me improve quite a lot.

“Forming a new friendship group is definitely the biggest impact [the sessions have had]. Being here since January last year, on the mental side of things as well as the physical side, it’s all a massive boost.

“They’re a great group of people you get to train with, and a great manager as well in Lee [Smith, Disability Liaison Officer]!”

On the importance of days such as World Autism Awareness Day, Lewis added, “They’re incredibly important.”

“Just because you have autism doesn’t mean you can’t do things like this.”

Our disability football sessions are designed to improve sporting and social skills, as well as self-esteem and confidence. Our inclusive sessions are delivered on a weekly basis and themed around all aspects of football.

For more information or to register your interest, please contact our Community Engagement Officer, Leanne Smith, at leanne.smith@itfc.co.uk.