Affirming Autism
Post diagnostic resources
Further Support and Resources
More detailed information is available in our Autism Resource Booklet. This includes:
Employment support and reasonable adjustment ideas
Sensory regulation and budgeting strategies
Helpful Facebook pages, community connectors, and befriending services
Information about education, crisis support, and local autism hubs
Videos on topics such as meltdowns, sensory overload, and burnout
Affirming Autism post diagnostic information
Your Autism Diagnosis
Based on your assessment and the information provided, we believe that you are Autistic. There is clear evidence across all areas that meets the ICD-11 diagnostic criteria for Autism. These differences have been lifelong, beginning in childhood, and are not better explained by another condition.
Understanding Your Diagnosis
Autism is not an illness or a problem to be fixed — it’s a natural variation in the way the brain processes and interprets information. Being Autistic is simply a different way of experiencing and interacting with the world.
Because only around 1–1.5% of the population are Autistic, you may sometimes feel different from others, or find that people misunderstand you — just as you might occasionally find others difficult to understand. This is part of the difference in communication and processing styles between neurotypes.
You have many strengths, and understanding these is key to supporting your wellbeing and success. Focusing on your interests, values, and ways of thinking can help you thrive.
Resources for newly diagnosed adults:
Your Rights and the Law
Autism is recognised and protected under The Autism Act (2009), The Equality Act (2010), and The NHS Long Term Plan (2019). These laws require organisations to make reasonable adjustments to ensure Autistic people have equal access to services, education, and employment.
If you’re unsure what adjustments might help, it can be useful to think about your sensory needs, communication preferences, and what helps you feel comfortable and focused. Sharing your diagnosis can help others understand what supports you best.
Useful links:
Asking for reasonable adjustments
Top autism tips: employment - reasonable adjustments
Reasonable adjustment checklist :: Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (cwp.nhs.uk)
Healthcare and Therapy
If you access talking therapies, it’s helpful to work with professionals who use an autism-informed and person-centred approach. Sharing your assessment report can support this.
You may also wish to create an Autism Health Passport to share important information with healthcare providers.
Adult Needs Assessments
Under the Care Act (2014), you are entitled to a Care Act Assessment if you need additional support in daily life. This helps social services understand what assistance might benefit you, including signposting to local or national services.
Carers are also entitled to their own Carer’s Assessment if they need extra support in their role.
More information:
Masking, Fatigue, and Connection
Many Autistic people “mask” or hide their differences to fit in, which can lead to exhaustion or burnout. Learning to unmask safely and embrace your authentic self can improve wellbeing.
Helpful resources:
Welcome to the | Autistic Girls Network , Keeping-it-all-inside.pdf (autisticgirlsnetwork.org)
Autistic fatigue and burnout (autism.org.uk)
Connecting with others who share your interests or experiences can also be rewarding. Websites such as Meetup.com and local autism hubs offer opportunities to meet like-minded people in a comfortable environment.