Feeling like we belong and have meaningful social connections to others are basic human needs that protect against mental health problems and thoughts of ending life. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the way we connect with others and experience belonging. These changes might inadvertently increase accessibility of social spaces for marginalised groups. I will discuss these issues drawing on my research in partnership with autistic people, a marginalised group who have long experienced exclusion and lack of acceptance in society. I will argue that there are key lessons being learned which need to be kept and not forgotten in post-pandemic times.