In this issue:
My Voice - volunteering opportunities for young people with Down Syndrome in Hertfordshire's libraries (ages 14-24)
'My Voice' Hertfordshire Libraries youth volunteering programme has partnered with DS-Achieve - a Hertfordshire based charity for children and young people with Down Syndrome and their families).
My Voice gives young people, aged 14-24, the opportunity to join the Hertfordshire Libraries youth volunteer network with the aim of increasing confidence, gaining practical work experience and developing essential life skills. DS Achieve have provided specialist training to library staff so that they are fully equipped to support the young people with Down Syndrome volunteering in their libraries.
What might the volunteers do?
It will vary from volunteer to volunteer depending on their interests, but some of the activities they might be involved in are:
- creating themed book displays
- sorting books
- preparing books to send to other Hertfordshire library locations
- planning and preparing local history walks
- supporting activities in the library e.g. crafting stations
- helping with the Summer Reading Challenge
- helping staff to prepare events in the library -e.g. sorting LEGO
If you know a young person aged 14-24 with Down Syndrome who might be interested in volunteering at a library in Hertfordshire and would like more information, please visit the DS Achieve website or email info@dsachieve.org.
Opportunity to contribute to the House of Lords Autism Act Inquiry - call for evidence
The House of Lords Committee has launched a Call for Evidence to support its inquiry into how well the Autism Act, government strategy, and statutory guidance are working.
They want to hear from autistic people, families, carers, professionals, and researchers.
Key areas include:
- Public understanding and acceptance
- Assessment, diagnosis, and post-diagnostic support
- Access to healthcare, education, employment, and community support
- Support without a formal diagnosis
- Autistic people in the justice system
Deadline for submissions: Monday 2 June 2025.
Call for evidence launched to mark World Autism Acceptance Day - Committees - UK Parliament
Young people tell us about their conditions and disabilities in a new series of videos (all ages)
A new series of videos on the Voices of Hertfordshire YouTube channel gives young people the chance to tell us about their condition, diagnosis or disability in their own words, and how it impacts them or their loved ones.
The first few videos are already live and available to watch on the Voices of Hertfordshire YouTube channel. Keep checking as more videos are added from young people who tell us about dystonia, down syndrome and more.
Help for exam and revision stress (ages 15+)
It’s exam season and a lot of young people are feeling the pressure. 
With Youth are offering to help young people with managing revision and exam stress.
They can offer free and flexible one-to-one sessions - a safe space to explore feelings, goals, coping strategies and more.
If you're worried that your young person is struggling to cope with the pressures of exams, visit the WithYouth website and find out more
Events
View all courses and activities
View half-term activities
Lending SPACE - service drop-in
Monday 19 May, 9.30am, Peartree Primary School, Stevenage
Come and discover more about Lending SPACE - Hertfordshire's community hub for sensory, educational, and practical equipment available to borrow. Meet the team and learn more about how we can support you.
Imagination Dance - Inclusive disco (ages 16+)
Friday 30 May, 7-9pm, Fairfield Park
A fun and inclusive disco where you can dance the night away to some of your favourite songs.
Autism Hertfordshire - Steps to better sleep workshop
Wednesday 21 May, 1pm, online
Part of the transitions service for ages 16+. Exploring strategies for better sleep.
Electric Umbrella - online singalong
Friday 23 May, 4pm, online
Join our vibrant Singalong sessions, where music meets community. Perfect for all ages and abilities, our Singalongs are a fantastic way to enjoy the power of music in a supportive and joyful environment.