Wellbeing Hub Practitioner SIG – 18th November 2026

The Centre for Autism Wellbeing Hub is hosting its next Practitioner Special Interest Group session at the University of Reading on Wednesday 18 November, from 4pm to 6pm. The SIG brings together professionals who work with autistic children and young people to network and share neuro-diversity affirming approaches, and this particular session focuses on PDA — Pathological Demand Avoidance.

The evening is built around two people talking about PDA from very different angles. Alesha Harvey, a PDA adult studying psychology at the University of Reading, shares what it's like to live with PDA day-to-day and her experiences as a PDA student and tutor within the school system. Beside her is her mother, Hilary Harvey, who speaks about Odyssey, a PDA peer-to-peer support group she founded, and her work as a Trustee of the PDA Society. Hearing the lived experience alongside the support side of things gives a fuller picture than you'd get from a textbook.

It's an in-person gathering, and they've got tea, coffee and biscuits provided, so it's as much about the chatting and networking as it is about the talk. If you're a professional working with autistic children and young people, it's a good chance to connect with others in the field and pick up some practical, affirming ways of working.

The session runs from 4pm to 6pm, with a 4.15pm start, at the School of Psychology in the Harry Pitt Building, Earley Gate, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6ES. Entry is free, and you'll need to register through Eventbrite.