Autistic blogger nominated for National Diversity Award

Middleton blogger ‘Actually Aspling’ has been nominated for a National Diversity Award for sharing her experiences of being autistic.

Aspling – real name Victoria Whiting – has been nominated in the Positive Role Model (Disability) category.

After she was diagnosed in early 2017, Aspling began her blog a year later, formerly known as Girl on the Spectrum.

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/118289/aspling-girl-on-the-spectrum-middleton-woman-speaking-out-to-raise-awareness-of-autism

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Autistic people can have difficulties with every day social communication, social interaction, repetitive behaviours and sensory issues.

Aspling, who holds a postgraduate degree with a focus on autism research, said: “I was previously nominated in 2019, and am absolutely thrilled to be nominated again in 2020.

“This year I've had a huge brand change including a new name and new logo, but the aim of my advocacy is still the same - to help individuals and parents, to educate and use my personal experience to provide insight.”

Actually Aspling’s blog can be read at:

• https://actuallyaspling.wordpress.com/

The National Diversity Awards were created to celebrate and recognise the hard work of grassroot communities and people who have been dedicated to tackling societal issues.

Charities, role models and community heroes will be honoured at a prestigious ceremony showcasing their outstanding devotion to enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion.

The concept for the National Diversity Awards arose when The Diversity Group identified an urgent need for more positive role models to be actively promoted, with the aim to empower and inspire the diverse communities across the UK.

Nominations close on 18 May.

You can vote for Aspling here:

• https://nationaldiversityawards.co.uk/nominate/27893