Beyond our institutional and policy work, SEMA’s impact is felt most directly in the lives of individuals who have never before had access to culturally relevant autism support. We have identified and supported struggling adults who questioned whether they were Autistic, guiding them through the assessment process. We have provided one-to-one consultations in Urdu with South Asian parents navigating the challenges of supporting Autistic teenagers. Through community group training delivered across central Scotland, we have meaningfully reduced the stigma around the label of autism in communities where it remains deeply misunderstood.

SEMA has delivered in-person seminars in Stirling for madrasah volunteers and carers, including the first translation of sensory difference and Autistic experience information into Urdu for participants in that setting. We have also delivered community training for NKS Edinburgh, a South Asian family group, following which several women self-identified as Autistic and sought further advice for their children.