Show Notes
In this first of a two part episode, psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox shares the inside story of autism diagnosis in the UK, why she left the NHS after being told to stay quiet about waitlists, and what every adult should know before seeking an assessment.
Alison, a late-diagnosed autistic psychiatrist, has led NHS autism services and now works privately helping adults navigate the diagnostic process. She breaks down what to expect from NHS vs private assessments, explains why autistic women are so often misdiagnosed, and shares practical advice for people currently on waiting lists.
If you’ve ever questioned whether you might be autistic or struggled to get answers, this conversation is for you.
Join us at hidden20.org/donate. _________
Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller
The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.
Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence. No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.
1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.
To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.
With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.
Join us at hidden20.org/donate.
Become a monthly donor. Be part of our community where great minds think differently.
Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________
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Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/
If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
More from The Hidden 20%
For two years, Ben Branson has sat in the green interviewer chair - asking the hard questions, holding the space, and speaking on behalf of The Hidden 20% community.
Psychiatrist, researcher and brain-body medicine specialist Dr. Jessica Eccles joins Ben for a fascinating conversation about the overlooked physical side of neurodivergence - and why ADHD and autism are often talked about as “brain-only” experiences when the body is deeply involved too.
Writer, podcast host and mental health advocate Gemma Styles joins Ben for a deeply honest conversation about ADHD, anxiety, depression and the emotional weight of going through life feeling constantly overwhelmed without understanding why.
Dyslexic entrepreneur and Talamo co-founder Jamie Wace joins Ben for a conversation about why so many children with dyslexia are still being missed - and how technology could radically change access to support.