How Abi is championing autism awareness in the DofE

Abi is a Bronze, Silver and Gold Award holder and a 2024-25 UK Youth Ambassador. During her time as an Ambassador, she is raising awareness about autism and ensuring DofE programmes are accessible to everyone.

Read more about Abi’s experiences of growing up with autism, the strategies she’s learned to navigate everyday life and how she’s using her voice to support others – whether it’s through mental health first aid, raising awareness at her college or helping to make DofE programmes more inclusive for neurodivergent young people. Get to know her.

I was diagnosed with autism when I was 12 and was already attending a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school. When I found out about my diagnosis, I was happy, as it meant I could understand more about myself and how my brain works. Over time I have learned to embrace my autism and what makes me different.

I now attend a mainstream Further Education college where I am currently studying Level 3 in Patisserie and Confectionery. At college, I have been able to raise awareness of autism by talking to staff about my own experiences, so they can use this knowledge to offer the best support to other neurodivergent students.

Autism is different for everyone

For me, I can sometimes struggle with social cues and changes to my usual routine. But this does mean I am usually super organised and pretty good at remembering details!

I have developed plenty of strategies for everyday life and my ‘toolkit’ includes dimming the lights if too bright and carrying with me some fidget toys and my noise-cancelling earphones (both of which can easily fit in my backpack!)

For others, autism can manifest as difficulties with emotional regulation or meeting new people, and it can sometimes lead to panic attacks and increased feelings of anxiety.

Knowing it presents differently for people helps us understand how broad autism is and that we should all be treated as individuals.

8/10 of autistic people experience mental health issues*

I have personally struggled with my mental health from the pressure of trying to fit in. For some people, especially girls, we may be seen as ‘masking’ – where you feel like you are not able to be yourself and mirror other peoples’ behaviours – it can be really exhausting at times.

The more people that understand and accept autism, the less people may feel the need to mask.

Earlier this year, I completed 16 hours of training to become a Mental Health First Aider® through the DofE UK Youth Ambassador programme. The training not only helped me personally, but I can also use what I have learnt to support my friends and family.

To look after my own mental health, I focus on self-care – like having a relaxing bath or listening to music – it’s all about doing the little things which make you feel good.

How to support someone in your DofE group with autism

Don’t make assumptions. The best thing you can do is to talk to them without judgement and find out what they need by asking them. When people make assumptions, often they have good intentions, but I find it’s best if someone talks to me before making assumption about what I can and can’t do.

To support an autistic person in your DofE group, help them prepare so they can make a clear plan. For example, when it comes to the Expedition, breakdown exactly what will happen on each day – this will help them to understand how their routine may change when away from home.

Throughout my DofE, I’ve had support from Leaders who utilised several adaptations for the Expedition section to ensure it took into account my needs, whilst still giving me a challenge.

What brings me happiness

I’ve been a huge fan of Strictly Come Dancing since I was 9. I love everything about it, from the routines to the costumes, to seeing the celebrities stepping outside of their comfort zones, it’s hugely encouraging to me.

I was so happy to meet professional dancers, Nadiya and Kai when I attended my own Gold Award celebration event at Buckingham Palace last year and hearing them talk about their journey was so inspiring!

I also enjoy competing in swimming, a sport which I have done for my DofE Physical section – I have taken part in lots of para-swimming competitions and even competed internationally!

Shifting perceptions

I am building a new passion for raising awareness of autism, especially after presenting to large audiences at college. I’ve noticed a change in people’s attitudes towards autism once they have heard my story, so I am passionate about continuing to support and inspire others. I also want to help train more organisations in autism awareness in the future.

How to access the right support if you are autistic

Through the UK Youth Ambassador programme, I have been able to be part of a community of young people from all over the UK from all different backgrounds. I have found it to be a really positive, non-judgemental experience which has helped boost my confidence.

Remember that help is out there. There are plenty of autism support groups you can join, and these are a great way to meet other people with similar experiences, which helps you find connection.

* 8/10 of autistic people experience mental health issues – World Autism Acceptance Month 2025

To support more young people like Abi, please consider donating to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award charity.