Twenty-three year old Simon Smith, from Brighton, is a young man who experiences autism.
As a son, brother and former student, Simon has had to overcome many personal battles in his life, because experiencing autism means that the way he communicates, socialises, interprets emotions or responds to noise levels, sound and touch is different to many of his peers.
Public speaking
Simon's mum, Kim Smith, nominated him for the 2011 Erica Award because of Simon's outstanding contribution to helping others understand what it is like to experience autism. He does this by giving talks and holding workshops for parents, teachers and social care professionals. Simon launched his career as a public speaker after sitting down one day with his mum and explaining to her how being autistic affected his every day life.
This conversation was life changing; not just because it really helped with Kim's understanding, but because it was then that they both realised how invaluable it would be for other people to learn about autism from someone that experiences it themselves.
Simon's unique perspective on the condition has benefitted many people and helped them to improve the services they deliver to others or the relationships they have. After Simon delivered a talk recently to parents of children with autism, one parent wrote to him saying; "I got home yesterday and saw my son from a completely different perspective, thanks to your insight and inside knowledge of autism."
Understand and supporting others
A teacher that attended one of Simon's workshops reported; "I learnt more in one hour about autism than 20 years as a teacher." Simon receives extensive feedback from family groups, parents and sector professionals all highlighting how useful his talks are and how the understanding he offers will shape their approach moving forward.
Leading learning disability and autism support provider Dimensions will be awarding Simon Smith £1000 in recognition of his achievements; making a difference to the lives of people with autism. With this money and support from Dimensions, Simon hopes to develop his presentations into a career for himself and others. As the winner of the Erica Awards' individuals category, Simon plans to grow his public speaking so that he can help even more people understand and support others that experience autism to live the life they choose.
Chair of the Judges, Steve Scown , Dimensions Chief executive said: “The judges really admired Simon’s ambition. He is committed to helping others understand autism but has also started to establish a career for himself and others, through his presentations and mentoring. He is a deserving winner of the Erica Award because ultimately he is making a big difference to the lives of others.”
We will celebrate the achievements of these inspirational people at Learning Disability Today where we're hosting a special awards ceremony.
