Episode 29 of The William Gomes Podcast explores the importance of building supportive systems for autism that extend beyond individual settings. William Gomes reflects on how autistic wellbeing is shaped not by single interventions, but by the combined actions of families, schools and services that often work alongside one another without true alignment.
The episode considers how fragmented systems can unintentionally increase stress for autistic people and their families. William discusses the role of predictability and consistency in reducing anxiety, particularly when transitions between home, education and healthcare are poorly coordinated. Building supportive systems for autism, he suggests, begins with shared understanding and clear communication across all environments an autistic person must navigate.
Trauma-informed practice sits at the heart of the discussion. William examines how repeated misunderstandings, exclusions or sudden changes can have lasting effects when systems fail to recognise autistic needs. He argues that compassionate collaboration between families, schools and services is essential if support is to be genuinely protective rather than inadvertently harmful.
A defining feature of the episode is its emphasis on autistic lived experience. William challenges professionals and institutions to treat autistic insight as central to system design, not as an afterthought. Building supportive systems for autism requires listening to those most affected and recognising their expertise in shaping environments that are sustainable and respectful.
This episode offers a thoughtful and grounded perspective on systemic responsibility. Rather than assigning blame, it invites a more humane and joined-up approach that allows autistic people to live with greater stability, dignity and trust in the systems intended to support them.
Listen to the Episode
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Isatdw2mCU
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/episode/35ASum16T7BlrSA9fcRhsQ?si=602aa0a5a9c44a33
