Helen talks about being a cotrainer with AWP and the impact it has had on her life
Before joining The Autism Wellbeing Project (AWP), my life felt like a constant cycle of struggle. Lockdown was particularly difficult, and I found myself in crisis, repeatedly hospitalised for poor mental health. I was sectioned multiple times, and at my lowest, I felt there was no hope, no purpose, and very little support to change my situation. I couldn’t see a way forward.
Everything started to shift when I was introduced to AWP, who even supported me while I was hospitalised- visiting me regularly and supporting me to begin to transition out of hospital and back into the community. Through their therapy, mentoring, and one-to-one independence support, life slowly started to feel more manageable. Emma, who worked with me at AWP, encouraged me to explore training opportunities to help find a purpose. At first, I was hesitant, but with her support, I started with the National Autism Trainer Programme, sharing my lived experience of inpatient mental health settings. This led me to the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism, which I completed with AWP.
Emma and Helen during a mentoring session
Since then, I have co-delivered over 20 training sessions, educating health and social care professionals on how to better support autistic individuals like me. I now attend training and support sessions twice a week with Emma and Jon, receive one-to-one coaching with Jon, and participate in various wellbeing activities provided by AWP’s free timetable. The profits and funding from AWP ensure these activities are free and accessible, making a real difference in my life and the lives of others.
At an Oliver McGowan training session with facilitating trainer Jon, and learning disability cotrainer Patrick
My confidence has grown enormously, both in myself and in public speaking. Before, I felt hopeless and lacked direction, but now I have a sense of purpose and can see a future for myself. I no longer feel as lonely and isolated as I once did. Social situations were always difficult for me, and I never felt comfortable in groups. However, at AWP, everyone is accepting and inclusive, celebrating people for who they truly are, quirks and all. I have formed genuine friendships and a strong peer support network with fellow autistic co-trainers.
At a training course with other AWP Experts by Experience
The activities offered by AWP have also helped me step outside of my comfort zone. I have particularly enjoyed anti-gravity yoga and climbing, which I now pursue in my own time. A few of us have even qualified in climbing belaying, allowing us to participate independently—a huge personal achievement.
Climbing with AWP
I always have help and support when I need it, especially with technology. As a group, we have worked through the training materials together, ensuring we all feel confident in delivering the sessions and can anticipate any tricky points. It has been invaluable to share experiences and learn how others have navigated challenges similar to mine. Even during times when my mental health has declined, the support from AWP has never wavered.
After being out of work for about 25 years and relying on benefits, I now have meaningful and fairly paid employment that is manageable for me. The flexibility of my work ensures that I can prioritise my wellbeing, taking breaks when I feel burnt out or am having a difficult time. There is no judgement—self-care is at the heart of AWP’s approach.
AWP has also provided vital adjustments to help me succeed in training. For example, I can see the speaker view on my laptop, take breaks when needed, have preparation meetings and debriefs, and request environmental changes to help me feel comfortable. Unlike previous jobs, there is far less pressure, and I know I can take time off when necessary without fear of repercussions.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this work is seeing the impact it has on professionals. I love being asked questions and witnessing those moments when staff realise they need to change their approach. Knowing that I am making a real difference and driving change is incredibly fulfilling. I enjoy answering questions and helping others, which has inspired me to pursue additional training to improve my subject knowledge. In my own time, I have completed further courses in Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Sensory Processing, which have not only enhanced my ability to train others but have also deepened my self-awareness. Through AWP, I have also become a Mental Health First Aider, allowing me to support others in a meaningful way.
This journey has been transformative. Where once I felt lost and without hope, I now have purpose, confidence, and a supportive community around me. Thanks to AWP, I have gained independence, employment, and a future that feels full of possibilities.
