-
Taking Autistic researchers seriously
The author’s experience as a neurodivergent research assistant at a UK university highlights challenges in navigating administrative processes exacerbated by Covid-19. Despite their qualifications, they faced bureaucratic obstacles that led to frustration and workplace insecurity. This experience reinforced the importance of support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals in collaborative environments.
-
Spectrum 10K: Consultation update
After an overwhelmingly large boycott from Autistic advocates, academics and many others on and offline, Spectrum 10K (a project aiming to collect the DNA and medical history of 10,000 Autistic people) was paused for ethical review. Ethical approval was re-granted with the caveat that consultation be conducted throughout the remainder of the project (read more…
-
Autistic and living with cancer: What you need to know
This piece was written with Dr.Char Goodwin who is the lead researcher for the Autistic Experiences of Breast Cancer research project, a three-year project funded by Breast Cancer Now. They are exploring the cumulative effects of autism-specific barriers to healthcare in relation to cancer care, directly from Autistic people themselves. Katie Munday (me!) has been…
-
Neurodivergent or neurodiverse? Why getting it right really matters
It might seem nit-picky when people talk about the importance of using ‘Neurodivergent’ and ‘Neurodiverse’ correctly. However, there is a social and political reason why it is important for us to get the distinction between these two words correct, especially for academics and neurodivergent (ND) organisations. Neurodiversity – includes everyone, including neurotypical / neuromajoritives. Neurodivergence…
-
The jewellery I never get to wear
This post delves into the challenges faced by a chronically ill, anxious Autistic individual in attending social events, due to physical and mental considerations. The author highlights the complexities of preparing for outings, the impact on relationships, and the need for understanding from others. Despite missed opportunities, the individual prioritizes self-care and hopes for future…
-
Coaching wheelchair basketball as an “able-bodied” person
I have coached wheelchair basketball for over eight years, I do this alongside another fantastic coach and some truly dedicated volunteers. Our players have different backgrounds, abilities and disabilities, ages and gender. It is one of my favourite parts of my working week and I don’t talk about if often enough. I wonder what puts…
-
Creating Safe Spaces book review
“Creating Safe Spaces for Autistic People” by Scott Neilson and Laura Hellfeld provides a comprehensive guide for establishing inclusive environments. The authors, along with other autistic advocates, address topics such as language use, participant support, and accessibility. Ranging from sensory tools to public transport guidance, this well-structured resource is valuable for professionals supporting autistic individuals.
-
The importance of Autistic-led training and research
The struggle for Autistic trainers is common as non-Autistic individuals often take precedence. Organizations claim to support #AutismAwareness but refuse to pay Autistic individuals for their expertise. Even those who include Autistic co-creators may overlook their lived experience. The focus must shift to including Autistic individuals in leadership and fairly compensating them.
-
The ARC is at it again
CW: suicide, ableism, Simon Baron-Cohen Another study suggested by Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre (ARC) has been paused. The new study by Professor Simon Baron-Cohen planned to read and pick apart the diaries of CSL*, a young Autistic girl who killed herself. The intention was that researchers could use her diaries to improve their understanding of…
-
Accommodations aren’t accommodations when you have to fight so hard for them
As a Disabled person supporting other Disabled people your needs, intensities, and behaviours don’t always align. When your children need you at your best sometimes you are in full fatigue, pain or overwhelm. Sometimes when your children need you at 100% you only have the spoons for 20%. The admin for fighting for your child’s…