Tom Howard

Disability Officer

Biography

My name is Tom Howard, and I am the Disability Officer for the Bury St Edmunds & Stowmarket CLP. I have held this position since 2023, and I identify as disabled due to my autism diagnosis. I didn’t get diagnosed until university, and this meant that I could not access the help and support required during my time in education. I had a really difficult time, and I am keen to make sure that others do not experience the same issues I faced.

I have since led a national campaign calling for mandatory neurodiversity training in higher education and, as a result of this and my community events, I was named one of the Big Issue’s Top Changemakers of 2024. I hope to use my platform to deliver real and lasting change and ultimately make a positive impact on the lives of other disabled people across the UK.