Studies recruiting now

Improving post-diagnostic support for autistic adults

What is the study?

We are looking at the support autistic adults receive after being diagnosed. We want to hear about autistic peoples' experiences of post-diagnostic support and whether the support on offer could be improved, particularly via the NHS. We hope this research will be used as an evidence base to improve services to ensure that post-diagnostic support truly meets the needs of autistic adults.

Who are we looking for?

Autistic adults who received a diagnosis as an adult (18+) from a UK service within the last ten years.

When will this study begin?

Our funding application to run this study is currently under review. If successful, this study will begin in November 2022 and there will be further details available via this website.

How do I express my interest in the study?

Please email the lead researcher Suzy Crowson s.crowson@sheffield.ac.uk

What if I need more information to decide?

Suzy will be able to answer and questions you may have about this research.

Lead researcher: Suzy Crowson (s.crowson@sheffield.ac.uk)

Project principle investigator: Dr Megan Freeth;
Project co-investigator: Dr Daniel Poole

Autistic adults' experiences of unemployment and underemployment: an interview study

A recent government report highlighted autistic adults are least likely to be in employment of any other disabled group, and those who are employed are predominantly in roles underutilising their skill level (underemployed). Employment provides financial benefits, increases independence, social status, and self-esteem; all of which have positive effects on mental health. This project therefore aims to better understand the lived experience of being unemployed and underemployed as an autistic adult.

Who are we looking for?

Adults (aged 18+), with a diagnosis of Autism, who completed formal education up to 15-16 years old and are actively seeking work but are current unemployed or self-identify as someone who is underemployed.

Unfortunately, you do not meet criteria if you also have a diagnosis of a Learning Disability (LD) or ADHD, are not actively seeking work, or are not fluent in English.

What does taking part involve?

If you wish to take part, you will be asked to take part in an interview about your experiences of unemployment and underemployment via Google Meet (online video platform) lasting approximately 60 minutes.

How do I participate?

If you wish to take part, please email Laura to express your interest and for further information.

Lead researcher: Laura Smethurst (lsmethurst1@sheffield.ac.uk)

Project supervisor: Dr Megan Freeth

Autistic women's experiences of pregnancy: an interview study

Project summary

There is limited research regarding autistic women's experiences of pregnancy. This research project aims to address this gap so that services can be more appropriately tailored to autistic women. We aim to explore this using interviews to talk about your experiences. We would like to recruit females with a formal diagnosis of autism, who are aged 18 years or older and have been pregnant within the last 16 years. Participation involves taking part in an online semi-structured interview that can take up to 60 minutes.

Lead researcher: Charlotte Grahame (Cgrahame1@sheffield.ac.uk)

Project supervisor: Dr Megan Freeth

Note: If you would like further information, please email Charlotte.

The impact of SOX11-syndrome (2p25.2 deletion): an interview study

Project summary

SOX11-syndrome is a recently discovered condition reported to impact different aspects of life, including cognition and behaviour. Due to the recent discovery of this syndrome, we do not fully understand the impact that it has on the individual or caregivers.

It is hoped that through understanding the impact of this syndrome, better interventions can be put into place to support the individual and their family, and professionals in education and healthcare settings can be better informed about the outcomes of the syndrome.

This research will speak to the caregivers of individuals with this syndrome and will explore what impact it has on multiple areas, including development, education, and family life. Participating in this study involves taking part in a semi-structured interview lasting approximately 60 minutes.

Lead researcher: Louis Stokes (lsstokes1@sheffield.ac.uk)

Project supervisors: Dr Megan Freeth and Dr Alisdair McNeill

Note: If you would like further information, please email Louis