Safe Space for Autistic Young People: Spectrum Gaming's Efforts to Connect and Empower

Strategic Insights -

Tucked away in a former shop premises in Bury town centre is a haven for autistic young people, where they can escape the pressures of everyday life and connect with others who share similar experiences. Spectrum Gaming, founded by Andy Smith in 2020, is an online platform that has grown into a thriving community, with over 500 members in Greater Manchester alone. The in-person sessions have become incredibly popular, with bookings often filled within minutes, and the venue is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to cater to the diverse needs of its members.

Key Takeaways:

  • Spectrum Gaming was founded by Andy Smith in 2020 as an online platform for autistic young people, following his own diagnosis and experiences of struggling with anxiety and loneliness.
  • The online community, which has over 500 members in Greater Manchester, provides a safe space for autistic young people to game, socialise, and learn more about their diagnosis.
  • The in-person sessions at the Bury hub, which is funded by grants, donations, training, and the NHS, are highly popular, with space for up to 30 young people aged 10-17 years old to attend.
  • The venue is equipped with multiple PCs, consoles, sofas, a hammock, musical instruments, books, and board games, as well as hosting cooking clubs, football groups, movie nights, and other activities.
  • Spectrum Gaming's advocacy efforts have led to the creation of online information for children, carers, and parents, as well as leading webinars, training sessions, and working with NHS and government services to push for change.
  • Andy Smith has received a 'Points of Light' award from the Prime Minister, recognising his outstanding work in the field, and is determined to continue championing young people in the Bury borough and beyond.
  • The organization also offers details on their Discord and Facebook pages and is open in-person to 2 times a week for autistic children.

Statistics:

  • Over 30,000 followers have joined Andy's Facebook page since 2017, where he shares educational content about autism.
  • Spectrum Gaming's online community has grown to over 500 members in Greater Manchester alone.
  • The Bury hub, which opened last year, has a capacity for up to 30 young people aged 10-17 years old.
  • The in-person sessions often get booked up within minutes.
  • More than 500 members in Greater Manchester access online support through Spectrum Gaming.

Sources:

  • Bury Times
  • Newsquest
  • Facebook (Andy Smith)
  • Spectrum Gaming Discord