Chelsea Webster
Nominee Profile
Location: Bournemouth
Autistic individuals frequently face poor mental health driven by isolation, yet peer communities offer a powerful remedy. Through The Autism Support Group, I have built a vital network centered on shared experiences and validation. Over the past year, I hosted 70+ groups supporting 150+ autistic adults, filling a critical gap in post-diagnostic care. Many members arrive feeling alienated but leave feeling empowered, seeing their lived reality reflected in others for the first time.
Beyond peer support, I advocate for systemic change and made a democratic processes accessible. When the Autism Act Committee sought feedback through an overwhelming process, I led a campaign with autistic creators to develop accessible feedback routes. This initiative enabled hundreds of individuals to contribute, resulting in four 3,000-word evidence documents. Our efforts contributed to record-breaking engagement, and I was personally named in the final report for taking "proactive steps" to bridge the gap between the community and government.
I have overcome significant barriers to become a role model. Raised on a council estate without middle-class safety nets, I navigated a lifetime of systemic failure in education and healthcare. After a two-year diagnostic wait and zero support, I turned my lived experience, including the unpalatable realities of shutdowns and chronic illness, into advocacy for autism and disability acceptance.
Receiving this award would provide the credibility to expand my work with peer support groups and government policy.
Beyond peer support, I advocate for systemic change and made a democratic processes accessible. When the Autism Act Committee sought feedback through an overwhelming process, I led a campaign with autistic creators to develop accessible feedback routes. This initiative enabled hundreds of individuals to contribute, resulting in four 3,000-word evidence documents. Our efforts contributed to record-breaking engagement, and I was personally named in the final report for taking "proactive steps" to bridge the gap between the community and government.
I have overcome significant barriers to become a role model. Raised on a council estate without middle-class safety nets, I navigated a lifetime of systemic failure in education and healthcare. After a two-year diagnostic wait and zero support, I turned my lived experience, including the unpalatable realities of shutdowns and chronic illness, into advocacy for autism and disability acceptance.
Receiving this award would provide the credibility to expand my work with peer support groups and government policy.