Families grappling with how an autism diagnosis affects their choices will soon be able to lean on an innovative new app created by the nonprofit Spicy Minds. This forward-thinking and first-of-its-kind tool equips parents with the knowledge and resources they need to help their child succeed. Poll Nicola Bennett, who lives in Almondsbury, waited five years for her son’s autism diagnosis. As the app gears up for its full launch, Bennett and others are optimistic about the positive impact it can have.
Bennett’s experience serves to highlight the arduous process many still face on the road to diagnosis. In the five years leading up to her son’s diagnosis, she experienced doubt and a lack of support. “If I had access to the app in those five years I would have used it. I think it’s really really good to have,” Bennett stated. She’s convinced that access to this resource would have been “incredible” for her family. It would have equipped them with critical best practices and knowledge during such a dark and unknown time.
The app does not offer a diagnosis but instead provides parents with a clearer understanding of their child’s needs while they await official assessments. Ben Cosh, CEO of Spicy Minds, explained the app’s purpose: “It does give parents a much better picture of what is going on.” He emphasized that the app “crucially provides strategies that work, reducing family stress and improving day-to-day difficulties while they navigate the long wait for NHS services.” Providing this functionality is one way we help alleviate a major pain point parents face as they navigate an often-stressful wait.
Bennett’s hope was for the app to eventually link users with other support networks, charities, and local services. These features would significantly improve its value and deliver families a more holistic support system. “If the app linked users up to a support network or charities and local services, that would also be an added benefit,” she said.
Cosh’s initiative is a great indicator that folks are coming to understand parents should not have to wait for years before knowing. It pushes them to use better resources today. “Parents shouldn’t have to wait years to understand their child’s needs and get practical support,” he remarked, underlining the urgent need for supportive tools in this area.
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