Autism Ideas in Midlothian

Dalkeith based songwriter Vicky Haylott wrote and performed a song about her improved perspective on life as a consequence of seeing the world through her son’s eyes. ‘Life’s Spectrum’ was inspired by his unique take on the world and the frustrations around how much he is required to fit into neurotypical expectations.

Vicky performed and professionally recorded the song at the Midlothian council autism strategy event in March 2019. You can hear her song here

Vicky is a thought provoking articulate presenter about disability issues, particularly as she and her son are visually impaired.

She has offered to perform or support any autism related events.

Vicky’s project was just one of the following activities undertaken by people with autism, carers and practitioners who offered their creative skills to reach others connected to autism in Midlothian.

The RS Macdonald Charitable Trust and the Scottish Government Autism Strategy Fund (through Midlothian Council) supported people with direct experience of autism to raise awareness, support and develop services in Midlothian. Using the creative skills of parents, people with autism and practitioners working in support services, Artlink supported the following projects;

1. Sharing a lifetime of knowledge– Gail Keating, published ‘Paper and Pens’ – friendly, supportive texts sharing her life’s work of teaching children with complex autism for the benefit of others.
2. Bringing a little of one world into another– autistic artist Fiona Bailey has developed a relationship with a high school in Midlothian to involve some of their autistic pupils sharing alternative ways of learning through the potential of the autistic brain, not in spite of it.
3. Parents acting out– Engross Theatre company devised and performed a sketch show about the good things their son has taught them.
4. A mother’s voice– Songwriter Vicky Haylott wrote and performed a song about her improved perspective on life as a consequence of seeing the world through her son’s eyes.