Abi Daly, a 20-year-old autism advocate from Plymouth, took her campaign for better understanding of autism all the way to Downing Street yesterday.
Abi, who lives with autism herself, visited 10 Downing Street where she spoke with Prime Minister Keir Starmer about improving awareness and opportunities for people with autism, particularly in the workplace.
Speaking to the Post, Abi said she is passionate about helping people better understand autism and the strengths many autistic people can bring to a job.
“I want employers to understand autism better,” she said. “People with autism can do the work and can be very good at their jobs, but sometimes employers just need a bit more understanding about the condition.”
Abi has been sharing her message through a video explaining autism and encouraging businesses to think more positively about hiring autistic people. Her journey has included earning her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award and receiving the CEO Student of the Year Award for her advocacy.
Alongside her advocacy work, Abi works as a lifeguard at the Plymouth Life Centre, where she says staff have been very supportive. She has also used her first-aid knowledge outside work to help save two members of the public.
“The Life Centre has been really supportive of me,” she said. “It shows that when workplaces understand autism, people like me can thrive.”
Despite her young age, Abi’s determination and enthusiasm are already helping to change attitudes and open conversations about autism and employment, with her visit to Downing Street marking another step in her mission to make workplaces more inclusive.
Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post