At Branch Out Support, we understand autism as a natural and valuable part of human diversity. We reject deficit-based models and instead focus on understanding each person’s unique communication style, processing needs, and sensory profile. Our team recognises that many traditional approaches can be overwhelming, triggering or invalidating for autistic individuals — so we do things differently.

We take a neurodiversity-affirming approach across every level of our business. This means we respect autonomy, reduce unnecessary demands, prioritise safety and trust, and respond to behaviour as communication. Our staff receive ongoing training in affirming, low-demand strategies (including Pathological Demand Avoidance profiles), sensory regulation, and trauma-informed practice.

In practical terms, our support workers follow the client’s lead, adapt to their preferred communication style, and create flexible routines that suit the individual's needs — not the other way around. We aim to reduce pressure, not compliance. Our shift notes include sensory and emotional observations to help build long-term understanding and continuity of care.

We actively support each person to express their identity, interests, and preferences — whether that’s through special interests, gender expression, stimming, or sensory regulation tools. We see authenticity not as a goal, but as a starting point — and we meet you there.