What’ s the BSAC experience like for people with autism? Recently qualified BSAC Diver Ewan Beck has some thoughts to share
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A mask removal exercise with optional shades
Half marathon raising money for a local autism charity
Ocean Diver and autism
What’ s the BSAC experience like for people with autism? Recently qualified BSAC Diver Ewan Beck has some thoughts to share
I
44 want to share my story— who I am, why I got into scuba diving, and how the sport has positively impacted my life. I’ m fairly new to scuba diving and have been learning with my local club, Solway Sub Aqua Club in Whitehaven, Cumbria, since November 2025.
I am currently training to become a BSAC Ocean Diver. Diving has always fascinated me, especially while on family holidays to the Canary Islands. I would watch divers heading out with all their equipment and always think how amazing it looked.
However, I was often too nervous and overwhelmed to try it myself, particularly while abroad where unfamiliar environments can sometimes feel intense for me. Late last winter, I decided to take the step and do a try dive with the club I am now part of. I was nervous at first— it was a busy environment and I was meeting lots of new people— but I went in with confidence and a smile. I met a fantastic team of instructors, and after my very first breaths underwater, I instantly knew this was a hobby and sport I wanted to pursue further. Sport has always been something I’ ve struggled to find balance with, especially finding something I could truly stick to long term. Over the last few years. I’ ve taken part in running events, including the Great North Run, alongside spending time in the gym, which I also enjoy. But scuba diving has been different— it has helped open me up far more than I ever expected.
When I first joined BSAC I took extra time to read through the medical questionnaire carefully and make sure I understood whether my autism meant I needed any additional medical assessment. In my case, I didn’ t fall into any of the categories that required referral to a diving medical referee. I did, however, speak to Paul, the Chair of my club, about my autism. I wanted him to be aware that I may sometimes process information, learn or react to situations differently. My autism affected me much more when I was younger, but as I’ ve grown into adulthood I’ ve become much more confident and less anxious.
I think it’ s really important that nobody feels embarrassed about opening up about a disability or condition. Being honest can help instructors understand you, be patient and adapt their teaching where necessary. My instructors at BSAC have always been incredibly patient and supportive, which has made diving a really positive experience for me.
Ultimately, everyone’ s circumstances are different. In my case, being autistic didn’ t require a medical referral, but I think it’ s important that everyone reads and answers the medical questionnaire accurately and seeks further advice if required.
One thing I’ ve also discovered through scuba diving is just how physically and mentally demanding the sport can be.
" I decided to take the step and do a try dive with the club "