Story added: 3rd April 2022

"It doesn't mean that you, as a person, are any less able or worthy"

As part of World #AutismAcceptanceWeek, we spoke to Josh Baylis, a one time Foundation participant and now one of our coaches.

As well as coaching kids’ courses and community initiatives, Josh works with hundreds of young participants with disabilities every week. 

“Some people might assume you can’t be a coach if you are autistic.”

“I might be one of the quieter coaches, but I think I’m extra focused on what the needs of the participants are. Being highly organised and in control is very important to me, so I’ll plan far ahead. Even if things invariably change, it means I have a starting point to go from.

“I know that for a parent hearing that your child has autism, it can feel like it’s the darkest day, like the world has swallowed you whole. But for me to be in this environment – coaching –  it hopefully demonstrates to those young participants and their parents that whilst life will be different to what you may have expected, it doesn’t mean that you need to limit your dreams. I hope I can be a role model to some of our young participants and inspire them.”

“My advice to those with disabilities who are dreaming about a career in coaching is to surround yourself with people who are supportive and understand you. It might be tough to begin with, but don’t ever give up.

“Just because you are autistic, it doesn’t mean that you, as a person, are any less able or worthy. You’ll keep surprising yourself everyday at what you’re capable of. ”

You can learn more about autism awareness here.