Sunderland project for neurodivergent people shortlisted for award

‘Autonomy: Connecting Communities’ was designed to reduce loneliness and isolation among autistic 16 to 25-year-olds by connecting them through art and community engagement.

The scheme was delivered through a partnership between Sunderland Culture and Sunderland College, using the National Glass Centre, Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art, and Arts Centre Washington as creative hubs.

Vicki Kennedy, head of learning and participation at Sunderland Culture, said: "Although we didn’t win, it was an honour to have been nominated and to have taken part in the awards.

"We’d particularly like to thank AIM for a travel grant which ensured we could represent the North East at the House of Lords and share the impact of the Autonomy project.

"Autonomy has shown just how powerful creative opportunities can be in reducing social isolation.

"By removing practical and social barriers, and by working alongside autistic young people as equal partners, the project has created meaningful connections that last beyond the sessions themselves.

"It’s not just about taking part in creative activity – it’s about being welcomed, understood and supported to belong."

Young people involved in the project explored their interests through art, producing work including portraits, glass, prints, photography, animation, and audio described arts award work.

Their creations were exhibited at the National Glass Centre and later showcased at Sunderland College, Keel Square, the Beacon of Light, and the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art.

The project also led to the development of a weekly Special Interest Club at Arts Centre Washington, which has introduced SEND film screenings and relaxed openings for neurodivergent visitors.

Funding for the 11-month project came from the Association of Independent Museums' (AIM) Connected Communities programme, which is funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Know Your Neighbourhood Fund, through Arts Council England.

The project was one of four shortlisted nationally for the Volunteering Project of the Year category at the Good for Me, Good for FE Awards, and also shortlisted for the Special Award for Young People at the North East Culture Awards 2025.

An AIM travel grant ensured three representatives could attend an afternoon tea reception at the House of Lords hosted by the Good for Me, Good for FE Awards patron, The Rt Hon Baroness Nicky Morgan, earlier this month: Michelle Patterson, Curriculum Manager for Creative Arts at Sunderland College; Peter Monaghan, Associate Principal: SEND and Inclusion; and Ms Kennedy.

The Good for Me Good for FE campaign was founded in 2021 by London South East Colleges, Loughborough College and East Coast College. It aims to connect staff and students with their communities and create a sustainable programme of fundraising and volunteering at colleges across the UK.

With about 150 colleges now on board with the campaign, millions of pounds of social value has been generated to date, along with thousands of pounds raised and thousands of items donated to foodbanks.

Ms Kennedy said: "Being named among the finalists for this highly respected regional award reflects the strength of our partnership with our funders AIM, Sunderland College, Autonomy participants, families, and local neurodivergent artists."

Michelle Patterson from Sunderland College said: "We’re incredibly proud that the Autonomy project was nominated for these awards.

"It’s been amazing to see students grow in confidence, express their creativity, and connect with the wider community.

"The nominations recognised their individuality, their voices, and the impact of truly inclusive practice."

The North East Culture Awards were held at Stockton Globe Theatre late last month.