Tag Archives: 2026 autumn conference

With autumn conference (taking place in Bournemouth from 20-23 September) approaching, I’ve been looking back and thinking about what I might’ve found useful to know as a first timer. The directory was full, I knew nothing and I wanted to do everything. It took a few goes before I got the hang of it. In this article, I’ve not attempted to explain the exact definition of a fringe event or the correct procedure for a reference back (there are other guides to these things). Instead, I’ve considered the “survival” aspect as it pertains to the neurodivergent community and, at the end, given some guidance on what you can afford to miss.

Look after your basics and prepare in advance

Before you get there, you will (probably) need to book accommodation. As well as cost, consider:

• Distance from venue (especially if you’re likely to need to go back during the day)
• Facilities (do you need to be able to make a packed lunch? Then a fridge is very useful)

Once you get to Bournemouth, consider how you will deal with various needs before they arise. Especially those that might be more complex for you. As soon as you get to the BIC, find:

• The toilets
• A few options for quiet corners you can hide in if you get overwhelmed
• The exits (in case the quiet corners don’t work)
• Stairs (this isn’t for everyone, but I find running up stairs is good for sensory regulation. Most conference centers have more than one staircase so if I need lots of stairs I can do loops)
• A lunch option that works for you. If there isn’t one in the building, leave and find a shop BEFORE lunch time

I would recommend also doing this for the Marriott, the Conference Hotel.

Plan your meals

For me, food is the hardest need to meet at conference. Many people say you can save money by choosing lunchtime fringes that provide catering. I don’t do that, and am not recommending you do it for several reasons:

1. The directory only tells you a session has catering. There is no distinction made between “full sandwich buffet” and “we have tea, coffee & squash”
2. It’s common for fringes to fill up, or to close the door to new people at the start. If the catering doesn’t work for you (because it’s not actual food, or because you don’t like it) you can’t join something else in that timeslot.
3. Some of the most interesting fringes I’ve been to were run by groups who frankly couldn’t afford catering

I recommend bringing your lunch with you. Either make a packed lunch in your accommodation or acquire a supermarket meal deal on your way in. if possible, aim for something that will still be somewhat appetising when you’re full of adrenaline. I also find I function better if I manage to meet a certain nutritional minimum. At this point, I should probably add a disclaimer. Thus,