Adapting a Support Service for Lower Income New Zealand Families With an Autistic Child: A Research-Community Partnership Approach

Research indicates that lower-income families encounter barriers to early support services for their autistic children. However, limited research has explored parent suggestions to reduce such barriers. Through a research-community partnership, this study used semi-structured interviews to explore parent’s experiences of an early support service their child had participated in. Interviews were analysed using template analysis with themes indicating a journey as parents sought support for their children, participated in, and then transitioned out of, the support service. An overarching theme, differing needs and priorities, highlighted a necessity for greater flexibility within early support services. Collectively, suggestions from parents and research-community partners informed the development of potential adaptations aimed at enhancing support service accessibility. Implications and future research directions are discussed.