Making Sport Inclusive: A Look at Training for Professionals Working with Autistic Youth

Working with autistic individuals requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. This is especially true for those in sports and exercise fields. A recent project aimed to create a training package for these professionals. The project involved a co-design process, which means it included input from both consumers and stakeholders. The co-design process was led by the consumers and stakeholders. This approach ensured that the training package was developed from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. It also made the process flexible, allowing each person's needs to be met. This flexibility was crucial for engagement. The group members felt a strong connection to each other. This was due to the emotionally safe environment created during the process. The supportive environment and processes put in place led to a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge needed. This understanding was vital for community sport and exercise professionals to effectively work with autistic young people. The project resulted in three key recommendations for future co-design research. The project involved semi-structured interviews with 10 consumers and stakeholders. These interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Four main themes emerged from the transcripts. The first theme highlighted the characteristics that enhanced engagement. The second theme focused on the connections formed within the group. The third theme discussed the holistic understanding gained from the process. The fourth theme provided recommendations for future co-design research. The overall experience of the co-design process was positive. The findings from this project can support future autism co-design research. It is important to note that there is limited literature on the processes used within co-design autism research. This project adds valuable insights to the existing knowledge. It also promotes critical thinking about how to best support autistic individuals in sports and exercise settings.