Austin is a former actor/singer who in his spare time would volunteer and work in and around many disabilities. Not happy with some of what he saw, Austin started to develop some of his own workshops and projects.
His interest in autism grew from a friend that was on the ‘spectrum’ and the groups that he was asked to work with. He learnt how to build strong bonds and understanding by putting himself in the shoes of the person he’s working with – seeing life from their point of view.
After suffering a serious head/brain injury in 2007 Austin was left with his own disabilities which brought about a change in his career. Working within autism became his main focus as he trained with and enjoyed working for the NAS which added to his hands on experience.
Austin gives advice and suggestions based on hands-on experience and is constantly learning himself. He likes to look at each problem individually and suggest purposeful strategy rather than give generic answers that might not help. “I want to find the hole that each individual shape fits into, rather than just leave it to one side or pass it through the larger, easier one, ” he says.
As well as offering help and advice, in reply to the many emails asking for help that we receive and being on the helpline, Austin is also our Training Officer at AKO putting together training days and sessions that meet the specific requirements that we are asked to meet rather than just giving generic information.
If you have any questions or comments please feel free leave them below and he’ll get back to you as soon as he can. Alternatively you can email Austin with regards to Training or receiving advice: a.hughes@annakennedyonline.com
Thanks for the Email regarding your forthcoming training sessions. The awareness one that I went to in July that you did was very informative and refreshing. I look forward to learning more about sensory and behavioural issues in your November sessions!
I would like to say thanks for all the help and advice you have given me over this last Month. I really thought I had reached a point where I couldn’t go on as a mother but your words and patience in helping me at this time have helped me to see through this dark time. I am grateful to you and also to the charity for providing this help.