Transcription of an email sent to autism@dh.gsi.gov.uk sent 14/09/2009.
Subject: Training of professionals
My son David and I give regular talks to medical students. David is 48 and has Asperger Syndrome and quite a severe learning disability. David answers questions for about 30 or 40 minutes and hen leaves. I then give the carers point of view by again answering questions from the students.
This format works really well and gives an insight into the conditon and by direct contact has a powerful impact. I have been told that this experience is one of the most valued by the students training.
Aspergers covers a wide spectrum of abilities and David represents just his own place in the spectrum. It is useful in a way in that people realise that not all people with Aspergers are highly intellectual but are all unique individuals with their own needs and abilities. David cannot read or write, cannot count to more than four and yet is very articulate and knowledgable about many subjects.
This training is organised and supervised by Dr Rossiter, a psychiatrist employed by the Somerset partnership. I believe that this format could be a valuable part of the training of all medical students.
Peter Thomas

Below is copy of Letter from Dr Rossiter to Dave and his Dad
21/7/2010
Dear Peter & David,
We have come to the end of the academic year and have received feedback from the students. All of the students rate your input as an experts very highly.

Thank you very much for your help. I hope you will be willing to be involved again next year.
Best wishes, 
Yours sincerely,
Dr Jackie Rossiter. (Somerset Partnership NHS)