ASSA, Autism Spectrum Self-Advocacy West Sussex, is a peer-led self-advocacy group run by and for autistic adults in coastal West Sussex.
We support autistic adults with low support needs living in and around Chichester, and across the coastal area, including Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, and Worthing. Our aim is to provide a safe, understanding, and supportive space where autistic adults can connect, share experiences, reduce isolation, and have their voices heard.
ASSA is led entirely by autistic adults. Our work is rooted in lived experience and in the belief that autistic people are best placed to speak for themselves about their lives, needs, and priorities.
Our History
ASSA was established to address a long-standing gap in support for autistic adults across West Sussex. While many services focus on children and families, autistic adults have often reported feeling isolated, unsupported, or excluded from decision-making once formal education ends.
The group grew from earlier local autism and Asperger’s peer networks, formed by autistic adults who wanted a consistent and safe peer-led space. From the outset, ASSA focused on connection, mutual understanding, and self-advocacy, led by lived experience rather than professional models.
Over time, ASSA developed into a recognised self-advocacy organisation supporting autistic adults along the West Sussex coast. As membership increased, the group also became more involved in local engagement and consultation activity, helping to bring autistic adult voices into wider conversations.
What We Do
We provide regular opportunities for autistic adults to connect in an environment based on understanding, respect, and shared experience.
We currently meet twice a month, on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, via Zoom. Alongside online meetings, we also arrange in-person meetings, social activities, and community outings where possible.
In addition, we run a monthly board games group in Chichester, offering a relaxed and structured social environment where members can meet informally, build friendships, and enjoy shared activities at their own pace. This group has been particularly valued by members who prefer smaller, activity-based social settings.
Our sessions offer peer support, shared discussion, and opportunities for members to raise issues that matter to them in everyday life.
Advocacy and Partnerships
ASSA plays an active role in representing autistic adult voices locally. We have an established connection with the West Sussex Autism Partnership Board, enabling lived-experience feedback from our group to inform county-wide priorities and service discussions.
We also maintain links with local advocacy organisations, including Impact Advocacy, supporting collaborative working to help autistic adults understand their rights and access appropriate support.
In addition, ASSA has received local support from Chichester City Council and Chichester District Council, helping the group to develop, strengthen community engagement, and expand opportunities for autistic adults to participate locally.
Our Values
Our work is guided by the principles of:
- peer-led and lived-experience leadership
- self-advocacy and empowerment
- inclusion, accessibility, and respect
- honesty, trust, and mutual understanding
- reducing isolation and improving wellbeing
We recognise that autistic adults often face systemic barriers within services, social spaces, and wider society. ASSA exists to reduce those barriers through community, connection, and collective voice.
Funding and Development
ASSA is proud to have received funding from The National Lottery Community Fund. This support has enabled the group to strengthen its sustainability, improve accessibility, and expand opportunities for members to connect, participate, and engage more fully in group activities.
The award reflects national recognition of the importance of peer-led, lived-experience organisations in building inclusive local communities.
Who Can Join
ASSA is open to autistic adults with low support needs living in coastal West Sussex. A formal diagnosis is not required, provided autism forms part of an individual’s lived experience.
We welcome adults who are seeking connection, understanding, peer support, or a safe space where they can be themselves.
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ASSA West Sussex, UK 