From group member to award winning employee – one woman’s autistic journey

20th January 2026

A former community group member - who first came to Autism Hampshire seeking support after a late autism diagnosis - has been named Employee of the Month at Autism Hampshire.

Sam Hely has been recognised for her dedication and impact in her role less than a year after joining the charity as Business Support Administrator for Autism Hampshire’s community groups for autistic adults – known as Serendipity.

Her journey with the charity began as someone needing advice and guidance before progressing to group member and then volunteer, before finally joining as a staff member.

“When you’re diagnosed late, you question your whole life,” Sam said. “But you also get answers.

“I now know what my limitations are. And I know what burnout is - and things that are going to cause burnout - and manage my energy levels better.

“I have changed massively in the four years since my diagnosis.”

Sam, 36, from Eastleigh, was diagnosed as autistic and ADHD in August 2022, following several years of struggling with burnout, anxiety and fatigue.

She initially began exploring autism and ADHD during lockdown, after years of feeling overwhelmed and unsupported.

“For four or five years I was going through what I now know was autistic burnout,” she said.

Sam had previously attended university twice and completed her degree, but did not achieve the grades she needed to pursue a career in teaching. Instead she began working for Apple but the role and the commute became increasingly demanding and exhausting.

Then lock down happened. It was after lockdown that Sam found she could not return to work and began experiencing panic attacks, which she now understands were linked to autistic burnout.

Since her diagnosis, Sam says she has learned how to manage her energy levels, recognise burnout and advocate for herself.

“It’s still difficult because sometimes people think you’re using it as an excuse, but you’re not,” she said. “You are actually just trying to advocate for yourself.”

Sam says using an analogy has helped her understand her differences.

“Being autistic is like being an Apple Mac in a world that mostly runs on Windows. You’re just a different operating system.”

Her experience as both a Serendipity member and volunteer has shaped her work at Autism Hampshire. In 2025, she was also named Newcomer of the Year at the charity’s staff awards.

Sam is now hoping to begin an apprenticeship in Business Administration later this year, continuing a journey that began with seeking support and has led to a career helping others.

Visit our webpage to find out more about volunteering opportunities.