Examining the support experiences of autistic young people with multiple marginalised identities in the United Kingdom

The challenges that autistic young people face when accessing support have been well-documented. In the current study, we examined this issue, focusing specifically on the experiences of autistic young people with multiple marginalised identities. Thirteen participants took part in semi-structured interviews and data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. One superordinate theme was identified, which reflected how accessing support was perceived to be challenging for all autistic young people, but especially so for this group with multiple marginalised identities. We illustrate this inequality by presenting three examples discussed by our participants: (1) delayed access to a diagnosis; (2) difficulties in finding the right support, and (3) unequal access to a key ‘champion’. We conclude with reflections on potential ways to break down barriers for autistic young people with multiple marginalised identities in accessing support, including improved options for support, as well as empowered self-advocacy.