Acceptance beyond awareness in Autism Awareness Month

Did you know that April is Autism Acceptance Month? Autism Acceptance Month is a great opportunity for us to recognise the experiences and identities of Autistic individuals. Acceptance goes way beyond awareness; it's about inclusion, understanding, respect and the chance to Unlearn.

Here at Savers, our people are at the heart of everything we do and we are so grateful that Laura, our Bangor Store Manager, has shared her experience of working at Savers and what life looks like after being diagnosed at 37 years old. 💙

Please tell us a bit about yourself

“Hi, I’m Laura Harrison, from the Bangor Store, I’ve been here a year!

I was diagnosed with autism last January, and I actually found it a lot harder to deal with than I thought I would, as I basically had to unlearn everything about myself from the previous 37 years and learn who my true authentic self was. However, it’s also given me a much clearer head regarding mental health, and not worrying as much as I used to about what other people thought.”

How does Autism influence your working life?

"I feel like I really thrive in the position I'm in at work, as I survive on routine and organisation. Something which fits very well with running a store. I've also found my area, region and in fact the whole company to be like nothing I've ever experienced before. I feel like I fit in. Like I'm part of a big community of people who all look out for each other. I would tend to struggle with being within big crowds, however on any company outings, there is always someone who keeps their eye on me to make sure I'm ok.

My area manager has also been incredibly patient, understanding and encouraging towards me and I honestly don't know what I would have done without her as starting my career with Savers was the first time I returned to retail after a few years so the change in pace and workload was very overwhelming for me."

What’s one thing you’d love people to Unlearn about Autism?

“That Neurodivergent people are just as important as Neurotypical, our brains are just wired a bit differently.

We’re not stupid, slow or intentionally rude, we just view the world a little differently, in our own special, unique way.”