Spectrum Social Squad is growing and changing to better protect the safety, comfort, and "spoons" of our members.

At its heart, this squad was created to be a sanctuary a place where Autistic individuals can come together, drop the mask, and connect in a low-pressure environment. However, to ensure we stay true to that mission, it has become necessary to restructure how we meet.

 

Why the Change?

Recently, we have seen an imbalance in our group dynamics. Feedback from our members and observations of recent event behavior's have shown that our current mixed-gender format is no longer providing the safe, respectful space that our women and gender-diverse members need to thrive.

We believe that everyone deserves a social space where their boundaries are respected and where they feel safe to be their authentic selves. To make this a reality, we are moving to a new model.

 

The New Squad Structure

Moving forward, Spectrum Social Squad will operate as two distinct branches:

1. Women, Trans, and Non-Binary Squad

• Led by: Dani

• Focus: A dedicated "soft" space for unmasking.

• Activities: We are moving away from competitive board games toward Parallel Play and Creative Workshops (think sensory crafts, quiet reading, and collaborative art).

• Goal: To provide a sanctuary for those who have felt overwhelmed or uncomfortable in larger, mixed-gender settings.

2. Men’s Squad

• Led by: TBC (Seeking a Male Facilitator)

• Focus: Social connection and community for our male members.

• Status: This branch is currently on hiatus until we secure a suitable male volunteer to host and facilitate these sessions.

 

We are taking a "Power Nap" (Hiatus)

To allow us to rebrand and set up these new spaces correctly, all events are on hold for one month.

This "circuit breaker" gives us the time to:

• Update our Code of Conduct to ensure kindness and respect are non-negotiable.

• Source new venues and materials for our creative workshops.

• Find a facilitator for the Men’s branch.

 

Call for Facilitators

We want the Men’s Squad to be a success. If you are a male member who is passionate about neuro-divergent community building and can commit to maintaining a respectful, boundary honoring environment, we want to hear from you.

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To Our Ladies and Gender-Diverse Members...

We have missed you. We have heard your feedback, and we are building this new version of the squad specifically with your safety and sensory needs in mind. We can't wait to welcome you back to a space that truly feels like home.

Watch this space for our Relaunch Date!

Thank you for your patience, your respect, and for being part of our journey.

 Danielle Maynard, Founder & Organiser, Spectrum Social Squad