A free roadshow brought autism awareness training, health checks and workplace wellbeing support together in Harwich.

Tendring District Council (TDC) joined Essex County Council, Essex ICB, Essex Working Well, ECL Essex Cares and Air Rescue UK to deliver the Workplace Autism and Health Roadshow at Sentinel House, Mariners Way, last week.

The event offered a ten-minute Autism Reality Experience Bus session, designed to give an insight into some of the sensory and communication challenges autistic people may experience in everyday life.

Disability and autism awareness training from ECL was also available throughout the day, alongside five-minute digital health checks and 30-minute NHS Health Checks.

Gina Placey, TDC Cabinet Member for Partnerships: “We’re committed to working with our partners to improve residents’ quality of life, and that includes supporting healthier, more inclusive workplaces.

“This roadshow offered an opportunity to learn more about some of the challenges autistic people can face, alongside practical advice and health checks.

“Thank you to all our partners for bringing this support together in Harwich and helping to put workplace health and understanding on the agenda.”

During the event the Essex Working Well team was on hand to talk about the wider support available to help workplaces improve health and wellbeing.

Councillor Chris Hossack, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Resident and Community Services, said: "Creating healthier, more inclusive workplaces benefits everyone.

“It helps businesses attract and retain talent, supports employee wellbeing and gives people the opportunity to succeed at work.

"We want employers across Essex to have access to the support and information they need to build healthier, more inclusive workplaces.

"By working with Tendring District Council, NHS Essex and other partners, we're helping raise awareness of the practical steps businesses can take to support their workforce and create opportunities for everyone to thrive."