How I Became an Expert by Experience

Hi, I’m Asten. I’ve been an Expert by Experience with the NHS for nearly two years now, and I decided to start this blog to document my expert work — and my feelings around it too.

I should probably explain how and why I became an Expert by Experience. I’m autistic, and I also live with various mental health challenges. Those experiences are what led me into this role in the first place.

My friend Tina — who actually told me I was autistic when I was nine years old (yes, she’s been in my life that long!) — suggested I should become an expert. She came with me to meet the team, and after that first meeting, I decided it was something I really wanted to do.

I was nervous at the start. I didn’t know what to expect, and I wasn’t sure where I’d fit. But as time went on, my nerves melted away — and now I genuinely love my expert friends and the work we do together.

There are some practical perks too. I get paid — straight into my bank account — which makes this my first ever properly paid job. And because I work with the NHS, I’ve also been able to get a Blue Light Card, which means discounts in all sorts of places.

More than anything, though, this work has given my lived experience value. Things that were once just “hard” parts of my life now help shape services, conversations, and understanding. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.

This blog is a space for me to share that journey — the work itself, the learning, the nerves, the wins, and everything in between.

Thanks for being here.