Why
In partnership with Reframing Autism, we will evaluate the impact of a co-produced resource called, Welcome to the Autistic Community: A Welcome Pack, specifically for late diagnosed/identified Autistic adults. This research is crucial as it addresses the significant gap in post-diagnostic support for Autistic adults, a population often overlooked in autism research and services. By focusing on adult-specific needs and experiences, it aims to enhance understanding of how best to support adults in understanding themselves, thereby improving their mental health and overall quality of life.
What is the impact of newly diagnosed Autistic adults receiving post-diagnostic support?
The research
Participants who had received a recent formal autism diagnosis shared their post-diagnosis experiences in relation to the Welcome Pack and their feedback on the pack.
Recruitment for this study is now closed. Research findings will be available in the second half of 2024.
Making a difference
The research aims to make a difference by providing evidence-informed, community-designed resources tailored to the unique needs of newly diagnosed/identified Autistic adults. This approach seeks to enhance the standard of care and support for this group, contributing to improved mental health outcomes, encouraging the development of a positive Autistic identity, and supporting a society that is more inclusive and empathic towards Autistic individuals.
Research team
- Dr Chris Edwards, Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP), Griffith University
- Dr Abbey Love, ARCAP
- Dr Ru Ying Cai, ARCAP
- Dr Vicki Gibbs, ARCAP
- Dr Fiona Aldridge, Aspect Assessments
- Dr Alexandra Johnston, Reframing Autism, Griffith University
- Dr Melanie Heyworth, Reframing Autism
Started
2024
Ends
2025
Funding
Aspect and Reframing Autism