The Fringe event is at the SNP conference taking place in Aberdeen. It will be Sunday 9:15-10:15am.

My talk draws from lived experience and has a call to action for politicians to not just say they care and are committed to making society more accessible, but to show us through their actions.

You can be a researcher without being attached to an academic institution. You can do meaningful, impactful work without a research grant. Your success and worth is not tied to getting straight into a post doc, research associate or lecture role.

Take time, explore options & look after your mind.

This year has been a whirlwind. I didn't know where I would be this time last year, which was a source of significant stress for various reasons, so I am happy that I am in the position I am in a year on.

I'd say to PhD/ECRs that are anxious about finding work, it's okay to work outside of academia

So, while I am not at a stage where I can continue my research the way I would like to (with the funding to take my findings to the next level by building on them & publishing co-produced guidance), I am able to balance an impact full role I really enjoy with keeping in with research independently.

I am still on the INSAR Autistic Researcher's Committee, I recently joined Autism in Adulthood as one of their Social Media Editors, I've been continuing to support students, speak about my research at events & I've co-authored my first journal article on a project I supported. All in my spare time.

That said, I have had those identity struggles; while I am 100% still a researcher, a title I worked hard for, my day-to-day role is not directly in research. That has been an adjustment, however it does still shape my work & approaches.

I scratch the research itch by keeping up with projects.

I was managing transitions and changes that not only felt but were large. It took time for my mind to adjust to the change, because (while there are similarities) charity organisations are different to academia in pace, type of work & often direct, real-world impact. A shift I have enjoyed.

Thank you, it was a really lovely day (or few days, as I was fortunate enough to have a few celebrations)! 😁

I apparently look and sound Irish, she reminded me frequently throughout the conversation.

It's the first time we spoke just the two of us, and it was a lovely chat.

For everyone I've met who has told me I have an Irish accent, I guess I've been peer-reviewed & your theory confirmed by Agnes.

Wenn and Peter ask "how did we do?"

Bloody brilliant, if you ask me. Excellent first keynote of the last day. 🙂

"What I don't like about social stories is that they are often about being kind to other people, but not about being kind to yourself" - Peter

This is so important, we need to build autonomy & self-compassion from a young age. It's harder (not impossible) to teach/learn later.

#AECONGRESS2025

"Yes you broke my favourite cup, I am sad, but it's okay. Accidents happen."

Peter highlights the importance of words and responses to moments where things don't necessarily 'go to plan' to help shape self-compassion, not create negativity.

It's about showing kindness to everyone.

#AECONGRESS2025