4Q4: The experiences of Autistic adults on inpatient mental health wards
In this latest article in our Four Questions For series exploring new research projects, we talk to Rhiannon Williams, a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at Coventry University. Her doctoral research project asks ‘What are the Experiences of Autistic Adults who have Spent Time on Inpatient Mental Health Wards in England?’
01 What does your research aim to investigate?
There are a high number of autistic adults that come into contact with mental health services, and at times, this can result in an inpatient admission to a mental health ward. These wards are designed to contain ‘risk’ and distress in the short term, whilst promoting wellbeing, so that a person can continue living the life they want outside of hospital. Current data shows that 53% of individuals with a learning disability and/or autistic individuals have had hospital admissions of over 2 years (NHS Digital, 2024). Despite this, there is very limited research into how people find these admissions, and even less research into purely autistic populations in general mental health wards.
02 Why does Neurodivergent involvement matter, and how has it shaped your work?
As I’ve progressed through my career I’ve tried to work with people from all walks of life, with the hope of gaining a better understanding of the world from their perspective. In doing so, I’ve seen the importance of working alongside people to empower and support them to advocate for themselves. This has led me to realise the value in learning from people themselves, rather than just relying on theory and textbooks. It therefore made perfect sense to me to undertake research that means I can hear people’s stories and learn from their views as an expert in their own life.
As a Neurotypical researcher, I am highly aware of how it is often neurotypical people whose voices are highlighted and who are the decision makers for Neurodivergent service users. This just doesn’t really make sense to me, after all, how can I think about implementing changes to benefit autistic adults, without asking people themselves what they think, what their experience is, and what’s important for them?
03 How might your findings be useful and help shape services?
My hope is that by completing this research I will be able to help amplify the voices of autistic adults and help professionals, including myself, think about the ways in which we need to change our practice, or the settings we work in to make them more accessible and beneficial to the autistic adults that use the services. Doing this will take another step towards co-produced services, to ensure support provided is the right service at the right time. I also hope that by highlighting difficulties autistic people are facing on these wards, services will be able to put in place practical strategies that make inpatient stays easier for those that require them.
04 Can you recommend any good resources or literature on this research topic?
As this area is limited in research, it’s quite hard finding literature out there on the topic. Having said this, there are some strategies that are coming out that can be helpful to increase your knowledge base of the area. The All Age Autism Strategy (2021) has been developed and has some information and guidance around building the right support in the community AND supporting people in inpatient care that can be a helpful read.
As well as this, the National Autistic Society (NAS) also has information about inpatient mental health hospitals, which includes information for if you know someone who may be at risk of admission. The NAS also have a downloadable health passport that can be filled in which will give professionals an idea of your autism needs, and adaptions they need to make to support you. This passport can be used in any health setting and can be a great way of communicating your needs without having to have a verbal conversation, particularly if you’re in a time of crisis.
I’m currently recruiting for this research and will be doing so until the end of March 2024. If you think you meet the inclusion criteria and would be interested in taking part, please get in contact via email. Equally, if you know anyone who might like to take part, please pass the information on. Thank you!
Rhiannon’s research is funded by Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust.
