There’s a lack of understanding about the needs of Autistic people when it comes to bushwalking in Australia. Many outdoor and disability organisations are yet to identify Autistic specific experiences. This project helps Autistic people access and enjoy bushwalking and supports trail designers, landholders and organisations develop appropriate facilities, resources, strategies and standards.
In travelling to North America, I identified what Autistic people, parents, carers, support workers, allied health professionals and organisations need to know. My itinerary was well researched and looked at trail creation, lived experience and provider development as well as what caregiver, guide and participant upskilling is needed for successful walking expeditions.
My Churchill Fellowship covers 16 case studies across North America and includes recommendations, a government call to action and three (free) toolkits.
Toolkit 1: For Autistic people, Parents, Carers, Support Workers, Hiking Guides, Allied Health Professionals Disability Service Providers to learn techniques and strategies to help neurodivergent people access and enjoy trail walking in different environments.
Toolkit 2: Recommends best practice framework standards for Bushwalking Organisations and Hiking Guides.
Toolkit 3: Assists Federal, Regional and State Land Management Agencies to plan and deliver appropriate infrastructure, standards, guidance and training around understanding Autism accommodations and specific trail experiences.
Fellow
Contact Fellow
This contact form allows you to contact a Fellow about their Fellowship research. It’s a great opportunity for you to find out more about their findings and make connections. Please note, that only messages related to these purposes will be shared with a Fellow.