A new podcast is giving autistic adults across Scotland a platform to share their lived experiences, advice and insights.
The National Autistic Society Scotland has launched the podcast as part of its wider What’s Next? programme, which supports newly diagnosed and self-identifying autistic adults across Scotland.
The show is hosted by programme coordinators Heather Carson and Claire Dobson and features conversations with autistic participants and professionals.
Episodes explore topics including autism, identity, wellbeing and connection, with the aim of providing listeners with practical information and reassurance.
The launch comes amid ongoing concerns about the level of support available to autistic adults following diagnosis.
According to the Accountability Gap report, one in three autistic people and their families received no support after diagnosis.
Research has also found that 66% of autistic people in Scotland experience social isolation, while more than 70% have experienced a mental health condition.
The What’s Next? podcast aims to help address some of those challenges by allowing autistic adults to hear directly from people with similar experiences.
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Rob Holland, director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, said: “Receiving an autism diagnosis can be life-changing, but for many people, it is only the beginning of their journey.
“Too often autistic adults are left without the support, information or community they need after diagnosis.
“The What's Next? podcast gives autistic people the opportunity to hear directly from others with shared experiences while accessing practical advice and insight.
“We hope it helps more autistic adults feel informed, connected, and confident in being themselves.”
Carolyn, a podcast guest and volunteer with the National Autistic Society, said: “After my diagnosis, I attended the What's Next? programme and finally found a place where I could be myself.
“I was warmly welcomed without any pressure to immediately open up and, with this support, I felt comfortable being myself.
“I didn't suppress my intense stims or mask my autistic traits and, in doing so, I finally stopped feeling like an alien in a world that wasn't made for people like me.”
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