An enthusiastic and passionate teenage Workstart student inspired a Forth Valley Student Association event to raise awareness of autism recently.
Chloe Sliman-Millitt (17) from Brightons in Falkirk, who volunteers with the FVSA, was instrumental in creating the Autism Awareness Day in the main hall at the Falkirk Campus on Monday 25 March 2019.
This event ran from 12pm until 12.30pm for any student that identified as having a disability and from 12.30pm until 2pm for all college students and staff members.
Chloe, said: “I think it is very important to have an event like this to raise awareness of autism among the students here at the college. Sensory areas and environments can really help to relax people with autism. I am confident changes will be made where possible as Forth Valley College does listen to suggestions from students.”
Chloe is looking forward to beginning a mainstream course after completing her Workstart course and focussing her attention on helping people who suffer from mental ill health. She was only diagnosed with autism a year ago, but this has helped her progress.
“A lot of things fitted in to place for me when I was diagnosed. I am still coming to terms with it, but I am getting there,” said Chloe. She went on “It was good to help organise this event and if I can be an inspiration for other students, then I am happy to be that.
“My advice to anyone thinking they may be undiagnosed with autism, is to speak with close family, friends and to their GP so they can get referred for an assessment. If you put your mind to it, nothing is impossible. People with autism think a bit differently and we have to find a way around the barriers that can cause us issues in day to day life. I think this event at the Falkirk Campus is a great starting point.”
The stalls on offer on the day were Forth Valley Sensory Centre, Scottish Autism, FVSA, Wellbeing and Support, Equalities and Learning Advisors stalls from FVC’s Support staff. Princess Parties Scotland also brought the entertainment – including a sensory ball-pit, bouncy castle, sensory lights and sensory toys.
Liam Williams, FVSA Student President, said: “Chloe has, and is, overcoming multiple challenges at Forth Valley College, from autism to her physical disabilities. Chloe has shown repeatedly that these circumstances do not define her in life and her time at college.
“Chloe's engagement, willingness and determination to help students facing similar adversities through collaborative work with the student association, makes us feel extremely lucky to have her volunteer with us. Although we have a disabled student officer, one officer cannot cover all the disabilities, so having someone such as Chloe spend time with us in the student association, has been extremely valuable.”
If you would like any further details about the event, please contact student.president@forthvalley.ac.uk or by calling 01324 403290
