As we begin Volunteers’ Week 2026, we want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to every single one of our incredible volunteers and trustees. Read more
Today is Local Election day in the regions Aspens works across, including Kent, Sussex, Bexley and Surrey. Take a look at our latest article to see which areas are voting and to access our easy read guide to help make voting clearer and more accessible. Read more
For Autism Acceptance Month, we were proud to support the national campaign “What Autism Acceptance Means to Me” alongside Autism Alliance UK. Throughout April, we shared powerful voices from across the Aspens community, highlighting diverse experiences of autism and the importance of understanding, inclusion, and meaningful acceptance. Explore all quotes and videos here. Read more
Celebrate Earth Day with us as we grow our Natural Affinity Community Project - expanding nature‑based activities, boosting wellbeing and creating opportunities for autistic people, those with learning disabilities and our community. Read more
We’re delighted to launch Aspens Connections, a new series of regular blog posts created by specialists from across Aspens. To mark Autism Acceptance Month, our first article focuses on autistic burnout: what it is, how it can present and steps that may support recovery. Read more
Our Bubbles and Bids fundraising evening was a great success, with our amazing community coming together to raise over £4,200 for a new sensory swing at Acorns Day Opportunities. A wonderful night of generosity, connection and celebration - all making a real difference for the people we support. Read more
Our recent Aspens Fest event was a wonderful community and neuro-affirming day. It was fantastic to see families exploring, creating and connecting as they participated in workshops, interactive activities and sensory areas. Read more
We're marking Autism Acceptance Month with What Autism Acceptance Means To Me, a campaign sharing reflections from across our community. Throughout April, we’ll be highlighting videos and quotes from autistic people, families, and colleagues about what acceptance looks and feels like in everyday life. Read more
As we mark International Women’s Day, our recently appointed Chief Operating Officer, Stevie Rice, reflects on the impact and leadership of women across Aspens, including the women we support and those who work alongside them. Read more
As we join the national Covid 19 Day of Reflection, Aspens pauses to remember those lost, acknowledge the profound impact of the pandemic on autistic people and those with learning disabilities and reflect on the resilience of our community. Read more
Aspens is entering an exciting new chapter. As part of this evolution, we’re introducing our new Inclusive Leadership Board and welcoming Stevie Rice as our Chief Operating Officer. Read more here. Read more
PaintnGo, Royal Tunbridge Wells’ new wall-painting experience, is delighted to announce Aspens as its first official charity partner, kicking off the collaboration with team members from both organisations creating a vibrant mural depicting our Pembury site. Read more
We're delighted to announce that our Children’s Short Break and Overnight Service in Bexley has been awarded Outstanding by Ofsted. The inspection praised the “warm and welcoming environment” where children thrive, forming trusting relationships with staff built on respect and genuine care. Read more
Aspens is celebrating a truly blooming marvellous result at this year’s Tunbridge Wells in Bloom Awards, with The Bluebell Cafe and our gardens and outdoor spaces winning a host of Gold and Silver Gilt prizes. Read more
Find out more about our new trustee Shannon, as she joins our board of trustees and tells us what inspired her to become a trustee and why our vision for an inclusive society is so important to her. Read more
At Aspens, as a member of The Autism Alliance, we are proud to stand alongside them and other leading autism charities in responding to the recent claims from the Trump administration linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism. Read more
We’re excited to share The People's Express newsletter with you – written, designed, and produced by the people we support, for the people we support. The People's Express is all about giving a voice to the individuals at the heart of our charity. Read more
Today is world suicide prevention day. We spoke to Caehryn Tinker, Senior Specialist Intervention Advisor at Aspens' Specialist and Family Support team, about how the narrative around suicide needs to change and the ways autistic young people can be affected and how to help them. Read more
Join us at The Bluebell Cafe in Pembury this October half-term and take part in our spooky trail, mosaic tile decorating (on Wednesday), and enjoy a delicious pumpkin-spiced latte and homemade cake. Read more
We are delighted to announce the opening of ten new supported living properties in Dover, Kent. Join our Open Day on 23 September to tour the properties, meet our dedicated team and discover how we create a home filled with care, comfort and connection. Read more
Our Sussex House Day Opportunities team has achieved a double victory at the annual Battle Scarecrow Competition, winning first place in the Charity category for the second year in a row, and taking home the Best in Show award! Read more
Aspens has received recognition at this year’s National Learning Disability and Autism Awards, with CEO Robbie Shanahan being presented with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, and Chris Foster, Behaviour Support Specialist and Trainer, selected as a finalist for the Great Autism Practice Award. Read more
This summer, one lucky visitor could win a party to remember – with a stunning countryside view and a delicious cake to celebrate. Visit our Bluebell Café or Kiosk and enter a special summer prize draw to win a party in the Natural Affinity Stables Room, complete with a delicious birthday cake. Read more
We were delighted to welcome guests to our summer event to share exciting plans for The Natural Affinity Project. Held at our beautiful Natural Affinity Stables in Pembury, the event highlighted how nature can support the well-being of the people we support and the wider community. Read more