Airdate: Love on the Spectrum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y3Ag9CkDFKc&feature=youtu.be

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re on the spectrum or not, everyone has a basic human right and a basic human need of connection and love”- Relationship Expert, Jodi Rodgers.

4 part documentary Love on the Spectrum screens on ABC later this month.

From Northern Pictures (Employable Me, Magical Land of Oz, Changing Minds, Ice Wars), this follows the stories of 7 young adults on the autism spectrum as they navigate the world of dating and relationships.

Most people on the spectrum have the same desire for intimacy and companionship as the rest of the population, yet difficulties in social interaction and communication make finding a partner an often daunting and difficult experience.

Far too many people on the autism spectrum want to find love but haven’t had the opportunity. Many haven’t been on a date, ever.

Love on the Spectrum follows seven singles as they take their first steps into the world of dating. To assist them in this journey, our team of friendly experts provide them with practical skills, giving them the confidence to take the first steps in finding love.

We also follow couples who have found their match. Ruth and Thomas have been engaged for a year and a half, and Jimmy and Sharnae met each other three years ago and have just moved in together.

This uplifting and insightful series celebrates the diverse stories of participants, all of whom are warm, funny and generously open. Love on the Spectrum sets out to teach us all lessons of love, romance, intimacy and acceptance.

Produced by Northern Pictures (Employable Me, Magical Land of Oz, Changing Minds, Ice Wars), Love on the Spectrum was commissioned by the ABC as part of its commitment to bring diverse stories, including those about people with disabilities, into focus. Principal production funding from Screen Australia, financed with the assistance of the ABC. Series Producer and Director: Cian O’Clery, Supervising Producer: Jenni Wilks, Executive Producer: Karina Holden, ABC Commissioning Editor: Stephen Oliver and ABC Head of Entertainment and Factual: Josie Mason-Campbell.

Update: ABC has now rescheduled this to 19 November due to its a Matildas international friendly game against Chile on Tuesday 12 November. Hence the video is no longer playable.