Hello I’m new here looking for some advice. My son is 22 and wants to join the armed forces. He was diagnosed with high functioning Asperger’s when he was 14. He applied a couple of years ago after the army removed the outright ban of individuals with autism from applying. It is now assessed on a case by case basis. He was unfortunately turned down but was advised that the RAF has a much better understanding of autism and hence a greater likelihood of success his first attempt failed and he is about to appeal. My son has improved greatly since childhood and is now able to function to a very high level. He has been working as a carer in a care home catering for dementia for several years and is very good at it. However it was always his dream to join the forces. Has anyone got any experience with this at all. I was wondering if seeing an autism specialist who could re assess him and write him a report would be beneficial. All his medical history is now very outdated and doesn’t reflect his ability now. I have read several studies which suggests there is a growing body of research to support the theory that some children with high functioning autism can and do go on to achieve what they term as ‘optimal outcomes’ which would mean if he were to be screened for autism now he wouldn’t meet the criteria. What do you guys think about this? I’d be interested to hear from others in a similar situation. Thanks for reading
