Getting around on public transport isn’t always easy – especially if you’re neurodivergent or have additional needs. But with the right tools, support, and a bit of creativity, we believe it can open up freedom, independence – and even a sense of adventure!

That’s why we’re thrilled to share that AutismAble CIC has been awarded a grant from the Motability Foundation to launch a brand-new three-year project:

Travelling with Confidence

This exciting project is all about helping neurodivergent people feel more independent, informed and empowered when using public transport – whether that’s the bus, metro, ferry or train. It’s not just about getting from A to B. It’s about building confidence, learning new life skills, and unlocking new opportunities.

So, what’s the project all about?

Over the next three years, we’ll be working with our amazing community to create:

• Weekly videos on everything from planning journeys to managing sensory overload
• Travel vlogs and real-life experiences, filmed by neurodivergent creators
• Partnerships with transport providers to make journeys more inclusive and accessible for everyone
• Creative skills training in filming, editing, podcasting, marketing and more
• A space to connect and share experiences, advice and encouragement

And the best bit? Like a lot of what we do here at AutismAble, it’s all designed and led by neurodivergent people, for neurodivergent people – so the voices, ideas and experiences shaping this project are real, relatable and rooted in lived experience.

Martyn Rutherford, Senior Coordinator and Traveling with Confidence Lead for AutismAble, said:

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the impact that this project can have and how much of a difference we can make to the experiences of neurodivergent individuals when it comes to independent travel. The fact we are documenting our every step using video is also exciting as there are going to be plenty of opportunities to share our journey along the way and hopefully help so many others.”

Lee, a member at AutismAble who is involved in the project, shared his excitement:

“I’m looking forward to travelling to new places, getting more experience on public transport. If the project gets out more, it could help others build their confidence and make it easier for them to travel.”

Lisa Jones, Chief Operating Officer at the Motability Foundation, said:

“We’re delighted to award Autism Able with this grant to help neurodivergent people to make journeys using public transport. Autism Able will work with their community to create tools to help build confidence and travel independently, as well offer peer support to share experiences of travel.

“Awarding grants to established organisations like these helps us to make an immediate difference to the transport needs of disabled people.”

Want to get involved?

With the support of the Motability Foundation, and the passion of our community, we’re ready to hit the road – and we’d love for you to come and be part of it!

Whether you’re neurodivergent and want to build confidence, someone who loves filming and content creation, or a service provider equally passionate about inclusive travel, there’s a place for you.

We’ll be hosting events, sharing updates, and inviting people to get involved in every stage of the journey.

Email info@autismable.com, follow AutismAble on social media or learn more at www.autismable.com.