Autistic Knowledge Development Director Named Finalist at Self Management Awards 2025
We are proud to share that our director, Sean Macaskill, has been named a finalist in the Self Management Awards 2025.
Run by the Health and Social Care Alliance (the ALLIANCE), the awards celebrate individuals and organisations across Scotland who are leading the way in self management and making a lasting difference in people’s lives.
Sean has been shortlisted for the Audrey Birt Self Management Champion award. This category honours individuals who go above and beyond to empower people to take charge of their own health and wellbeing.
The award is named after Audrey Birt, an inspirational leader whose compassionate and inclusive approach shaped Scotland’s national self management strategy and left a lasting legacy of person-centred care.
Sean’s nomination recognises his leadership in co-creating programmes such as Embrace Autism and Aim High. These initiatives place autistic voices at the centre, offering peer-led support for autistic adults, young people and their families. Their impact has already been acknowledged nationally, including through a Scottish Government–endorsed White Paper on adult autism support.
Sean Macaskill, Director of Autistic Knowledge Development, said:
“This nomination is not about me. It is about our community and what becomes possible when autistic people lead the way. I am proud of what we have achieved together.”
At Autistic Knowledge Development, we believe that autistic people should be at the forefront of shaping services and support. Sean’s shortlisting is recognition of this approach, and a celebration of autistic leadership being valued on a national stage.
The winners will be announced during Self Management Week 2025 (22–25 September).
