Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
FOR AUTISTIC WRITERS
Check out below for some of our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, please email admin@beyondthespectrum.uk and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
FAQs
Do I need a diagnosis to take part?
No- if you identify as Neurodivergent, you are welcome to take part.
What happens in a typical workshop?
Workshops generally comprise of:
- Time to catch up and share what everyone has been writing about.
- Input from the lead writer in the form of a theme, a prompt or series of prompts and time to write.
- Prompts, taking the form of poems, pieces of music, paintings, or published work from the lead writer.
- A discussion about the topic, then time to write creative responses in any genre. People can turn cameras and microphones off at this point, and there is usually a time limit.
- An opportunity to share and feedback on each other’s writing, as well as the chance to post work into Padlet which people can then read and feedback after the session has finished.
- There may be a homework task, but these are always optional and given without any pressure to complete.
Do I have to share my writing?
Absolutely not. Nobody is forced to share, and respect is given by all participants to anyone who does.
I have never written anything before, is this for me?
Yes – Beyond the Spectrum has proved equally popular amongst beginners, as well as those who’ve already been published. Attend a taster session if you’re nervous, and this will help you decide if it feels like the right space for you.
If I feel overwhelmed or triggered during a workshop, what should I do?
If you are attending in person, there will be a breakout space and you can go there, unchallenged at any time during the workshop.
If you are online, simply turn off your camera and microphone and, if you want to rejoin later, that’s fine, nobody will question this.
Do I need to have my camera and microphone on during the workshop?
No – if you decide to keep them off, that’s fine, just post any writing you’d like to share, or feedback you’d like to give in the chat. You are not expected to be visible unless you feel comfortable doing so.
What if I can't make it or forget to attend a workshop?
Not a problem. The workshops are not chronological, and if you have to miss a session, just come to the next available one following the link.
What if I don't enjoy it?
If you decide the group isn’t for you, just drop the administrator a note, and you may be offered a place in a different group to try.
Do I have to commit to the whole three-year programme?
The programme has evolved in line with the needs and desires of the hundreds of writers who have written with Beyond the Spectrum so far. Many of the original cohort are still writing with us, and leading their own workshops now, but if this doesn’t work for you, that’s fine too.
What if I'd like to join the project but it's already started?
Just add your details to the waiting list, and we’ll be in touch to offer you any available places still remaining.
Can I attend with my child?
Most children and young people like to have a parent to make sure their tech is working and for reassurance at the beginning. It’s fine for parents to be in the background supporting their young writers, if that’s how they feel most comfortable.
As time goes by however, the need for this usually reduces.