Hedley's story
Hedley is a mental health nurse and clinical educator who has Asperger's (Autism). Over his long nursing career he has often felt misunderstood and a diagnosis of Autism in later life has helped him to advocate for the support he needs.
Key points:
- Autism has several alternative labels including Asperger's, Autism Spectrum Condition and Autism Spectrum Disorder - Hedley identifies with Asperger's.
- Education is key to ensuring that we can all support our neurodiverse colleagues and positively embrace their strengths.
- The clinical educator role aligns with Hedley's strengths. A supportive and flexible team help him to manage his environment and avoid burnout.
- Supportive environments help us to be ourselves -being able to go to work without 'masking' is positive for individuals and has a positive impact on productivity and morale.
- A formal diagnosis helped Hedley be confident to be himself.
- Peer support can benefit those with a neurodiversity or disability - those with more experience like Hedley can give back to those earlier on in their journey.
