I first encountered the word “AUTISM” in 2009 during my undergraduate studies, little did I know then how deeply it would shape the course of my life and career.

My name is Anum. I am a SEND teacher and a caregiver to a neurodivergent child who is currently undergoing assessment for diagnosis. As a member of the Pakistani Muslim community in the UK, I bring both personal and cultural perspectives to my work and lived experience.

Over the years, I have offered autism support services as a behaviour therapist in Pakistan, the Gulf, and now in the UK. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the challenges faced by caregivers of neurodivergent children. Now, as a parent myself, I relate to these struggles more intimately. This dual lens as both professional and mother has allowed me to understand the nuances of stigma, stereotypes, and systemic barriers from a deeply personal perspective.

When I received admission to a PhD program in the UK, I was thrilled. I was moving to a country known for its progress, prosperity, and rich history. But soon after arriving, I began to observe the unique challenges faced by ethnic minority caregivers. As my own child began to show developmental red flags, I found myself navigating the diagnostic pathway not just as a trained therapist, but as a mother.

What stood out were the systemic gaps: a lack of cultural competence across healthcare, education, and social services; delayed diagnoses; language barriers; social isolation; and stigmas deeply embedded within ethnic minority communities.

These experiences compelled me to act. I shaped my PhD research around these very issues, aiming to explore them through the voices of caregivers themselves. Understanding the barriers is the first step toward creating change. I’ve laid the foundation, but your stories and insights are vital to building a more inclusive support system.

I invite you to participate in my study: “Family Wellbeing, Social Support, and Caregiving for Autistic Children: Insights from Ethnic Minorities and Other British Families in the UK.” https://unioflincoln.questionpro.eu/t/AB3u17lZB3v2ea
Your input will contribute to a greater cause, amplifying voices that are too often unheard.

QR Code to participate in the “Family Wellbeing and Social Support for Autistic Caregivers” research