Ahmed is 22 with a mild learning disability and has been attending AutismAble since 2024. Ethan, who is also 22, has a mild learning disability, autism, and anxiety, and joined in August 2025. Their developing friendship has contributed enormously to many outcomes, including confidence, mental wellbeing, and participation.

Ahmed initially displayed low confidence and struggled to share his feelings with staff. Although very friendly, he hadn’t formed strong friendships with other members. One of his goals has been to develop and maintain relationships.

Ethan also showed low confidence in social situations, often reluctant to participate in group sessions or initiate conversation. Changes to routine or meeting new people would sometimes cause him to become physically sick.

Staff noticed their very similar interests, personalities, and communication styles, and paired them in sessions. Ahmed was asked to become a “buddy,” helping Ethan settle in, understand sessions, and answer questions. This gave them a safe way to develop their friendship naturally.

Ahmed took on the role of a buddy with great pride. He provided Ethan with reassurance should plans change at the last minute – important as Ethan would express severe anxiety at his routine being disrupted. Ethan was reminded that he could sit with and initiate conversation with Ahmed if he would like, so that this became more of a habit for Ethan and something he would feel more comfortable with doing.

As their friendship grew, Ethan’s anxiety decreased, his attendance improved, and both members participated more confidently in sessions. They became more willing to interact with others, building wider friendships. Most importantly, their friendship increased wellbeing and they became a safe space for each other. Ethan said, “I feel much more comfortable when Ahmed is in session with me. I feel like we are really good friends, and if I get overwhelmed, I have someone to talk to who can help calm me down.”

This demonstrates the vital impact of friendship for our members and highlights the importance of the SociAble pathway, which advocates the necessity of socialising and friendships for development.