Margaret Heathcote, a Support Worker from Rochdale, was keen to pursue her interests and develop her knowledge around the subject of Autism. As a Support Worker with Mencap, Margaret provides personalised support to people with learning disabilities.

Having completed numerous courses about Autism, Margaret’s commitment to truly making an impact on the lives of those she supports is clear to see.

“I feel the added knowledge of a course enables a person to think outside of conventional thinking. This promotes better and improved communication and understanding and enhances the support I provide for all individuals and my colleagues.”

Delivered online, the purpose of the Level 3 Autism qualification is to develop the learner’s knowledge and understanding of autism and how to best support those with it.

Over 10 weeks, Margaret explored numerous topics about Autism to further stretch and develop her understanding.

Topics include:

• Understand the diagnosis and management of autism
• Understand best practice in the context of autism
• Legislation, guidance, information and support relevant to autism
• Autism and behaviour
• Living with autism in society

Whilst Margaret has taken a huge leap towards delivering enhanced care within her role as a Support Worker, she feels that more can be done to encourage inclusivity.

From her experience within the community, Margaret found that schools can sometimes be lacking when it comes to supporting those who have a spectrum condition, often prioritising paperwork and procedure above empathy and understanding toward the individual.

Margaret is keen to share her newfound knowledge from the course with others and understands that her goal of inclusivity for all will take time.