The Brain Charity

Diagnosed with autism in his first year of university, Shawn, now 31, says he is still learning what his diagnosis means — but finding The Brain Charity has helped him feel more confident, connected, and understood. 

A difficult start 

Shawn spent much of his childhood in foster care, an experience he describes as especially challenging for someone who now understands he is autistic. 

He said: 

“I didn’t have a sense of stability for a long time, which made it hard to feel secure. I’ve always found change difficult — and when you’re young and undiagnosed, you don’t always know why you’re struggling. You just know something feels harder.” 

Shawn lived in two foster homes from age eight until he turned eighteen. While the first was a time of adjustment, it was the second home, where he spent his teenage years, that he says truly felt like family. 

During high school, Shawn found it hard to connect with most people and often felt disconnected from those around him. He didn’t have the motivation to socialise and couldn’t explain why. 

“I found it really difficult to build friendships. I just didn’t get the same drive to connect others seemed to have.” 

Still, there were moments of connection — including one friendship formed in his teenage years that has lasted to this day. 

When exam season came around, Shawn noticed the contrast in how he learned and processed information. He excelled in some subjects and struggled in others, and for the first time, he started to question whether he might be unable to see the bigger picture of who he is. 

Discovering a diagnosis 

Shawn received his autism diagnosis in 2013, during his first year studying tourism at university. 

“I was 18 or 19 when I was diagnosed, but I still feel like I’m figuring it all out. Socialising, communication, relationships — these things are still challenging for me.” 

Despite the challenges, Shawn completed his undergraduate degree and went on to earn a Master’s in tourism, an area he is passionate about. 

“I’ve always been able to retain information about tourism — it’s something I naturally enjoy and understand.” 

Finding The Brain Charity 

Shawn first heard about The Brain Charity through the disability support team at Toxteth Job Centre. Not long after, he joined the charity’s Value of You confidence coaching programme — and he describes it as a turning point. 

“Value of You was brilliant. Mandy and Karen helped bring out my confidence and helped me build a new routine. They understand the struggles people with neurological conditions go through. They bring smiles to people’s faces.” 

That initial support led to something more lasting. 

A place to grow

Shawn began volunteering at The Brain Charity, first helping in the finance team and later becoming an integral part of the reception team. 

“The Brain Charity is a nice place. It’s a safe space where I feel welcome. When I’m here, I feel normal.” 

Volunteering has helped Shawn come out of his shell. He says his communication skills have improved, and while it’s still a challenge, he feels more prepared to face it. 

“I look forward to coming in and talking to people. It’s helped me connect the pieces and learn new things. I’m not going back to the person I was before.” 

Looking ahead 

Shawn is now focused on finding a role that fits — something purposeful, supportive, and challenging in the right way. 

“I want to work somewhere I can feel comfortable and not overwhelmed. I’m open to any career that gives me purpose and helps me grow.” 

As he continues to explore the next steps in his journey, one thing is clear: Shawn has already come a long way — and The Brain Charity is proud to be part of his story. 

Workplace Neurodiversity Training from The Brain Charity

At The Brain Charity, we believe every brain is unique — and every workplace should be too. Our Workplace Neurodiversity Training helps organisations understand and celebrate neurodiversity, creating environments where all employees can thrive.

Through practical guidance, we support employers to make recruitment, communication and day-to-day processes more inclusive for neurodivergent colleagues. Training sessions cover topics such as reasonable adjustments, accessible policies and how to become a Disability Confident employer.

Delivered in person or online, each session is tailored to your organisation’s needs — helping you build a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and able to be themselves.

Learn more today!