Justjordanmar

JUST JORDAN

• Autism Coffee Morning • Employment News • International Women’s Day • Autism Fairies • Kerry’s Poem • Kids Zone

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Introduction Hello everyone and welcome to my March edition of “Just Jordan”.

I’ve chosen a magical fairy photo for my front page as my best friend Kerry and I had a wonderful day and has wonderful memories for me.

Again, am elated with the response about my “JUST Jordan” group and newsletter, so thank you all from the bottom of my heart! Keep your questions coming.

If you’d like to order a paper or hardback edition just drop me a line and I’ll order it for

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you. I’ve continued with a similar layout but please do share any suggestions for the April edition! As always please do keep your feedback and messages coming, it’s a pleasure hearing from each and everyone of you!

I’ve worked very hard on this Newsletter and I hope that you will enjoy and tell all your friends & family about “JUST Jordan”.

You will find information on my “JUST Jordan” Facebook/Twitter page and how to contact me details are also enclosed.

As always I look forward to your feedback, submissions and questions for the next edition.

See ya,

Jordan Fernando xx

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World Autism Awareness Week

Spring is one of my favourite months in the year as it is World Autism Awareness Week.

Many of us have been diagnosed or know someone with autism, but the condition is often misunderstood. The purpose of this week is to help raise awareness about what it means to have autism, and for all of us to get involved in some local events and fundraising. Each year, in the week leading up to World Autism Awareness my family and I organise autism events including bucket collections too. If you'd like to join us at our events and take part in World Autism Awareness Week then please do get in touch and remember it’s also suitable for all ages.

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According to the National Autistic Society (NAS), over half a million people with autism feel socially isolated, and struggle to be a part of the society around them. I have to agree somewhat as I often feel isolated, stressed and depressed and find it difficult to snap out of that emotional state. Help is at hand though as you can speak to your GP, explain how your feeling and ask for support.

NAS have produced a great promotional video to inspire and encourage everyone, just follow the link here: https://youtu.be/FGsUVHBG0SI

Pictured opposite is my Mum raising awareness of Autism & JUST Jordan at The Scottish Parliament.

Each year, in the week leading up to World Autism Awareness Week, I try my best to encourage the community to take part with me – a full seven days where friends, family, schools, workplaces and individuals, within our wee community take part in activities to raise money and awareness for The National Autistic Society.

We’ve come a long way in raising autism awareness but there’s still more to be done until everyone understands autism.

I thoroughly enjoy volunteering with Louis Ferguson at our local health radio station 3TFM and often use the radio to share events and autism information.

The radio really helps me spread the word but I also need your support to raise vital funds to continue running events like our local coffee mornings, newsletters and sharing knowledge with professionals working with autistic people, and so much more – and that’s where you come in.

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Pictured above is my Sister Aaron attending The Scottish Parliament on my behalf as my social anxieties were just too much to cope with on the day. So very grateful to my amazing sister for stepping in at the last minute, you made me very proud!!

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Pictured opposite is me raising awareness in the local Saltcoats & Ardrossan Herald.

Mum and I will be bucket collecting around Ayrshire and holding our annual autism coffee morning later in the month so please make sure the date is in your diary!

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Pictured above is me volunteering at 3TFM in Saltcoats and sharing news of my upcoming autism events.

This year’s FREE Autism Coffee Morning will take place at the Ardrossan Library, Princes Street on Saturday 24th March between 10.30-12.30 We will have guest speakers, representatives from The National Autistic Society, face painting and lashings of yummy refreshments & cakes! **Please note a Videographer/Photographers will be in attendance so polish your smile!

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Anyone wishing to donate baking or a prize for our raffle please do get in touch either on my page or via email suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk Remember to keep the 24th March free for a fun and informative morning and I'll see you all soon.

My FB/Event page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/https://www.facebook.com/groups/12868708 61378618/ This is one of our previous coffee mornings so why not take a look and see for yourselves how much fun they can be! https://youtu.be/1av2g5GkDN0

Pictured above is Mum and I doing a charity Zip slide.

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Employment News

An Ayrshire company gave three people on the Autistic Spectrum the opportunity of Modern Apprenticeships and changed their lives.

Braehead Foods was keen to diversify its workforce after HR Manager Louise Stevenson attended an East Ayrshire Council Supported Employment Service event.

Louise said: “We wanted to provide appropriate support and encouragement for applicants who needed it. “We made reasonable adjustments to help people feel comfortable and perform to the best of their ability.

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“One of the applicants had a week-long working interview. This was supported by a job coach, their department supervisor and the wider team.

“To ensure the team was best placed to provide any necessary support, we provided autism awareness training for staff and team members who found it helpful and learned strategies to help the apprentices.”

She said: "We realised this person’s skill set and great attention to detail made great business sense and we were delighted to offer him a Modern Apprenticeship. His contributions have helped streamline processes and allowed us to identify areas where we can ultimately save money for the business.”Braehead Foods have since recruited another two apprentices who have Asperger’s Syndrome and who have also provided invaluable administrative support. Not only that, but their personalities and sense of humour have transformed the team dynamic in their respective business areas.

Louise said: “Ultimately, we just wanted the best experience for our employees because that helps them give the best performance.

“Within days of the apprentices starting with us, it was business as usual and they are and will continue to be a huge asset to the business.”

The opportunities provided by the Kilmarnock company have been life changing for the apprentices. They had been unemployed and struggled to get interviews despite having a wide base of skills. They have gone on to become essential members of their teams.

The company was nominated by East Ayrshire Council’s Job Coach for Supported Employment David Meikle.

He said: “The apprentices have made friends, can save and prepare for their future and are now very much valued participants in the world of work.

“Braehead Foods is a shining example of a large Ayrshire employer which has embraced diversity within the business, recognising a real business case for diversity and the result that employment and training makes to an individual’s life.” http://www.braeheadfoods.co.uk/

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A day to celebrate Autistic Woman all over the world!

International Women’s Day March 8th – Do women on the autism spectrum get the support they need? Well the Naked Butler pictured above wasn’t much support but he sure did make me smile!!!

I've often got into conversations about women and autism.

Two questions came up repeatedly.

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Firstly – how difficult it is for women to be diagnosed with autism? (Currently in the UK 80% of those diagnosed with autism in the UK are male.)

Secondly the lack of services specially designed for and provided to females on the autism spectrum.

So I was wondering if this experience was more universal than just up here in Bonny Scotland. I’d really like to know your opinions.

Thus I’ve set up a poll to find out if women on the autism spectrum are getting the services they need. It would be really great if you could take part.

You can find my poll on the "JUST Jordan" Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/ Secondly I would love to hear the voices of autistic women. It would be great if you could share your story ( or the story of a female loved one with autism) so please do get in touch.

I think everyone has a touch of autism in them which is why we are all so unique and special, even my Mum has been told many times over the years that she is more than likely on the spectrum but she knows that anyway since I was diagnosed, as the saying goes it was then 'the penny dropped' and so many things made sense to her. As she has learnt and coped through my diagnosis she has never felt the need to get an official diagnosis but has been asked by previous health officials in the past if she'd like it. Maybe one day she will but as far as she is concerned, she doesn't see the point in having it in black and white when she already knows anyway!

I can see her point as she's lived her whole life without it and has learnt how to cope through my diagnosis.

Parents of girls on the spectrum, like Mum, are helping to raise awareness about female Autism and the fact that there needs to be better recognition, acceptance and diagnosis. She never stops my Mum...I honestly don't know where she gets the energy...not that am saying she's old or past it lol....but am tired just watching her sometimes!! Go Mum your the best!!

She had to fight for my diagnosis, she had to fight to lose the stigma of Autism, and had to fight the stereotypes.

She had to fight the Doctors that told her it was unlikely to be Autism because I was a girl.

She had to fight the Doctors that said I had Autistic traits but probably wouldn’t get it recognised or diagnosed, because I was a girl…..WELL…. *I have Autism. *I got my diagnosis. *She won the fight.

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As it's International Women’s Day this month I thought I'd share some of my achievements with you.......

I'm very proud of how far I've come and my accomplishments, there have been many downs but happy to say more ups!

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Kids Zone

by Jordan Fernando

More in the Kids Zone next month!

Please do keep your drawings coming and I’ll do my best to feature them in next months edition of JUST Jordan.

Jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/ @JustJordan2016

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Our regular JUST Jordan poem submitted by Autist Kerry McGinn 20, Stevenston, North Ayrshire.

My Love of Disney From Cinderella’s sparkling dress To Peter Pan teaching the darlings to fly From Belle and the beast’s romantic ballroom dance To Aladdin and Jasmine’s Carpet ride through the sky We sang and danced to classic songs Like the bare necessities And watched our favourite heroes and heroines explore new worlds Like captain Jack Sparrow Sailing the High Seas Jiminy cricket sang about How to keep wishing upon a star While Elsa from Frozen taught us To never be afraid to show who you truly are I hope like me as the years roll by You’re love for Disney will continue to grow And if some people don’t appreciate that Remember to just... LET IT GO

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YES, there are ‘Autism Fairies’

Is there or isn’t there?

If fairies do exist what would her job in fairyland be?

Would she be able to visit us?

Well it's whatever you believe, but I'll tell you one thing.... I had so much fun trying to find out!

Many of my aspie friends find fairies fascinating (particularly the elemental fairies), and mythical equines. Even my mum loves horses and their mythical counterparts since she was very, very young. Mum says they radiate grace, beauty, and power.

What do you think?

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Pegasi and unicorns are what got my friends into the world of fantasy art. They got into Elves through the world of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings and Hobbit. They got hooked on fairies by getting some watercolor and sketching books on fairies.

Anybody else got a fantasy obsession they want to share?

Check out these amazing photos taken by Caroline Ann Photography in Paisley, who offer an amazing Magical Fairy Shoot for all ages.

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Dear Jordan……

Ask me anything and I’ll be as frank with my views as Coleen is on Loose Women!! I can be your straightesttalking agony aunt, giving advice on relationships, bullying, early diagnosis and any life problems you may have…..xx Huge thanks to everyone who submitted questions for “Dear Jordan”

“Dear Jordan How do I get a passport photo done when my daughter won't look at the camera?

She's almost 5 but there is no chance of her looking at the camera and even less chance of her sitting in a photo booth.

If your daughter struggles then you would need to explain this on the passport form and support this with a letter from your consultant.

See guidance below https://www.gov.uk/passport-services-disabled Hope this helps ! Love Jordan xxx

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“Dear Jordan”: My child has been assessed by ATS and ed Psychologist over the last month.

Both have completely contradicted each other.

One (ed Psychologist) has seen exactly what I see- a child that strives from routine, structure, huge anxiety’s,low self esteem and dislikes anyone new ( was very on edge when ed Psychologist walked in even before my child knew they were for him). They did notice a that my child had a close friend,which they do, but in my opinion there is no depth to the friendship. They just play well together and my child leads the play usually. my child amongst a whole load of other things cannot follow more than a one step instruction but IS progressing well in some areas.

ATS has said they do not know why I wanted the child seen, there are no social communication issues, my child has friends and transitions well into the playground and back again and speaks in conversation/answers questions. I said my child definitely does not play age appropriately outside of school, it’s all very one sided and they struggle to join in with others that are already playing. Also if they see those same friends outside the safety of the school gate my child is with drawn and takes along time to ‘join in with anything /the party etc. They said they will assess my child again in a few months.

Anyway any advice please.

Personally, I'd rather refer you to the NAS education right service as it's much too complex an issue to talk through in this type of forum. http://www.autism.org.uk/services/helplines/education-rights.aspx

Hope this helps ! Love Jordan xxx

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What’s On in Ayrshire

***Ayrshire Veteran Breakfast club also meet every Monday morning at 10 in the Melbourne Café, Saltcoats. All welcome!***

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https://www.facebook.com/groups/476315025910707/ or https://www.facebook.com/VintageRoseTherapies.co.uk/

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Saturday, March 10 at 11 AM - 5 PM Vikingar Greenock Rd, KA30 8QL Largs Tickets Available www.tickettailor.com

POLL: What would you like to read about in “JUST Jordan”?

Let us know by contacting us via email: jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk

HOW TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE. If you would like to submit an article, picture, ask a question or offer support in next month’s newsletter please contact me via email: jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk

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Ayrshire Potato The first Ayrshire Potato Day, expect around 40 different varieties of potato to choose from, including the old Ayrshire Early favourite, the Epicure. The day promises to have something for everyone, from beginner growers to experienced gardeners. Why not pop along for a visit and support Ayrshire’s heritage.

Public ¡ Hosted by Three Towns Growers - https://www.facebook.com/threetownsgrowers/ Saturday, March 10 at 11 AM - 3 PM Saltcoats Town Hall https://www.facebook.com/events/160496774579067/

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Join us on 26 March - 2 April for World Autism Awareness Week!

Whether you bake, run, or host a bucket collection, your fundraising will help us to continue to support the 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK. Get your free fundraising pack now and find out what you can do!

Why take part?

We've come a long way in raising awareness about autism, but there's still more to be done until everyone understands. That's why we are holding World Autism Awareness Week - a week of fundraising activities and events in your community, at work, or at school, to help raise money to continue our life-changing work. You can make a huge difference to the lives of over 700,000 autistic people by taking part. We are here to transform lives, challenge perceptions and build a society that works for autistic people – and the money you raise will help do just that. Your fundraising has helped us gather knowledge from vital resources, spreading the word far and wide through ground-breaking campaigns like Too Much Information. Last year, thousands of you got involved in World Autism Awareness Week and fundraised an amazing £300,000.

How can I get involved? Sign up now and get your free fundraising guide, jam-packed full of fun ideas and activities to help you raise money your way. http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/world-autism-awareness-week/form-individual.aspx

Autism Group Meeting Mar 6 Costa Coffee Catch Up Tue 12 PM · Costa Coffee Largs

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Greenacres Riding Centre

đ&#x;?°đ&#x;?° Good Friday đ&#x;?°đ&#x;?° Greenacres Farm Day Feed our lambs, chickens,turkeys,geese,goats,baby chicks and ducklings, pigs, giant rabbits, Pony Rides,Clydesdale Rides, Miniature Pony Derby, Horse and Cart Rides, Easter Egg Trail,Face Painting, Hot Food and Farm Shop...đ&#x;?ˇđ&#x;?°đ&#x;?šđ&#x;?´đ&#x;??

A Fun filled Day,welcome to all, 11am till 4pm No Dogs Please Car Parking at the Rear of the Stables ÂŁ5 per adult, ÂŁ3 per Child (under 12) All inclusive apart from food/farm shop purchases

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2 Hour Baby and Child First Aid Class Tuesday, March 6 at 12 PM - 2 PM Dazzles Dance Studio 1 George Square, PA15 1QP Greenock Ticket Information ayrshire.minifirstaid.co.uk

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“JUST Jordan” Copyright of Miss Jordan Fernando Jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/ @JustJordan2016 https://issuu.com/justjordan19/ Disclaimer: All articles and information in this newsletter are of the writers own personal experiences and opinions.