We are very proud of how our voice leads to change. Here are some examples of the projects we have worked on and the change we are delivering.
The Power of Language
ATLAS uses the term Additional Needs and Disabilities instead of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The group didn’t like the term “special” and felt it had negative associations.
ATLAS is very passionate about language. They believe words matter — especially when talking about disability.
ATLAS created a preferred terminology guide to help professionals understand how language affects young people. It also encourages asking young people how they want to describe themselves. You can read the preferred terminology guide.
We also ran a campaign to change the term “disabled toilet” to “accessible toilet”. This felt more inclusive. Now, 中国P站 uses “accessible toilet” in all its buildings
Read about the Power of Language project
Behind the Mask
ATLAS worked with the All-Age Autism Strategy to create a workshop called Behind the Mask. It helps teachers learn about masking. Masking is a term used to describe when neurodivergent young people may hide parts of their identity or behaviour to fit in, avoid judgment, or feel safer in social situations.
I really enjoyed it because I got to explain what it’s like to mask every day. People have different needs and shouldn’t be treated the same.
Jess, an ATLAS member, said:
Over 300 teachers and school leaders joined the training. They learned directly from young people about what it’s like to mask and how we can best support young people experiencing masking.
People who have lived through something are the real experts. That’s why it’s important to give young people chances to lead training and workshops — so the information is accurate, and others learn what support truly helps.
Empower Sunflower
ATLAS recognised that there isn’t a lot of awareness and understanding about sunflower lanyards. These are used by people when they are in public spaces to communicate that they have a hidden disability.
ATLAS wanted to launch an anti-stigma campaign to promote sunflower lanyards. This shared clear information and raised public awareness about additional needs and disabilities in the community.
As part of the campaign, ATLAS made three powerful videos. These were even shared on the official Sunflower Lanyard social media!
Collaborate with us
Are you a professional, organisation, or service looking to improve how you engage with young people with additional needs or disabilities? ATLAS welcomes collaboration!
Whether you’re developing a new policy, seeking feedback, or want to co-design services, we’d love to work with you. Get in touch with the team at atlas@surreycc.gov.uk to explore how we can support inclusive, youth-led change.