Aspect supports Autistic people of all ages and stages of life, with differing abilities and support needs in a wide range of settings including homes, schools, workplaces and the community. As every person on the autism spectrum is different, our approach includes a comprehensive flexible range of evidence-based programs to incorporate the range of abilities and supports that might be required at different times in a person’s life. Currently, there is no single evidence-based approach that supports the needs of all people on the autism spectrum.

The ACA provides for the development of ‘individualised’ or ‘person-centred’ supports. This means getting to know and understand the person well, identifying their interests, strengths (for some, their exceptional abilities) and their aspirations, and then developing individualised supports. The approach is holistic and should always consider the person’s whole quality of life. In 2017, the Five Point Star developed by Autism Initiatives (UK) was incorporated into the ACA. The Five Point Star is a relationship-based approach for us to increase our understanding and support of individuals on the autism spectrum. The approach recognises the strengths of autistic people and that autistic people and non-autistic people need to work together to understand each other well, and to adapt to meet each other’s preferences and needs. Aspect staff collaborate with students/participants to develop their Five Point Star profiles which are used to guide positive empathetic trusting relationships.

Aspect’s purpose ‘a different brilliant’ recognises the inherent strengths, interests and aspirations of people on the autism spectrum and the ACA embeds a positive strengths-based approach to support.

Aspect works towards community participation and inclusion. Inclusion is more than just a presence within a community setting and can only be achieved when the Autistic person feels they belong and are accepted without having to change themselves. Aspect adapts environments to be more autism friendly and educates other people to understand autism and promote inclusive practices.

Aspect works in partnership with people on the autism spectrum. This means including people directly in whatever service they receive, as well as partnering through Aspect in Governance, research, service planning and delivery.

Families are the most committed, enduring and knowledgeable source of support and are vital contributors to their child’s support.

Aspect staff bring differing professional expertise and collaborate with other professionals to understand and support the whole person.

As a major provider of services for people on the autism spectrum, Aspect is unique in that it has a research program, the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP). The Centre actively partners with people on the autism spectrum, families and staff in research and evaluation to ensure Aspect’s autism practice (the ACA) is informed by our people and is evidence-based.