Advisory Panel 'Adult Siblings of People with Autism and High Support needs', an ESRC funded project for the University of York, Department of Social Policy and Social Work
The aim of this project is to understand the perspectives of adult siblings of people with autism and high support needs. The research is particularly interested in how sibling relationships develop, evolve and become negotiated within families. A purposive sample of 20 adult siblings, aged between 25 and 50 years old will be recruited. Qualitative, face-to-face interviews will explore a sibling's relationship to their disabled brother or sister and the extent they wish to be involved in their sibling's life. Where possible and agreeable, the research will also explore the views of autistic siblings. To set the research within a service context, a sample of professionals, involved in supporting the family will be interviewed too.