Current research, lived experience stories and views from clinicians tell us that many autistic girls are less likely to be identified by diagnosticians. One huge contributing factor to this is the misunderstanding of the full spectrum and stereotypical views of its characteristics (this can include boys and men too).
In 2017 we created an online training module aimed at improving the knowledge, confidence and practice of diagnosticians and professionals. It was completed by over 18,000 users in its first year and winning a Training Journal Gold Award for Best Public Service Programme.
Module content included: diagnostic criteria, exploring misdiagnosis, personal perspectives, stereotyping, co-occurring conditions and practical solutions and strategies. Autistic women and professionals in the field were involved in co-production of topics, resources and module testing overseen by a project manager on the autism spectrum.
An evaluation featuring before, after and follow up surveys, as well as in depth interviews and case studies with professionals and people supported was undertaken with a pilot cohort of 2,000 learners. Feedback was very positive with the majority of learners expressing increased knowledge and confidence in recognising and supporting autistic females.