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Let Your Loved Ones Know

Sharing the news of your own or your child's autism diagnosis with those who are nearest and dearest can give them the insight they need to better support you.

They might be able to help with

National Charities

National Autistic Society

For autistic adults and children, and their families.

www.autism.org.uk

Ambitious About Autism

For autistic children and young people, their parents and carers.

Call : 020 8815 5444

E-mail : info@ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk

Website : www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk

Local Support Groups

The assessment team that diagnosed you or your child should give you information on local support groups.

You can also search for local groups using the National Autistic Society services directory.

Online Communities and Discussion Boards

Loads of individuals who are well-versed in autism are out there on social media and forums, keen to offer guidance and recount their personal experiences.

You're not obliged to actively participate in these online circles, but you might find it beneficial to read through what others are discussing.

A smart jumping-off point could be the forums maintained by recognised autism charities.

Please Remember Though

Comments on social media and forums are often based on personal experience and should not be taken as advice that would help you or your child.

Educational and Work Settings

Various avenues of support are available to make daily life more manageable for you or your child.

To explore available aid, you can :

In nursery or school settings

Discuss with teachers or a Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO).

In college or university

Reach out to student support services.

At work

Engage with your manager and the Human Resources (HR) department.

Local Authority Support

Assistance and even financial benefits may be available from your local council, depending on your circumstances.

For the Under-25s

If you're below 25, enquire about the "local offer" from your local council. This outlines the support provided for young individuals with special educational needs. Every council is obligated to provide a local offer.

Consult your local special educational needs advice service for more information. You can locate your nearest Information, Advice and Support (IAS) service via the Council for Disabled Children website.

For Adults

If you're an adult with autism or a carer for an autistic adult, request a needs assessment from your local council. This evaluation determines :

  • Challenges you're experiencing in daily life.
  • The types of support or financial benefits you may qualify for.

For Caregivers

If you're caring for someone with autism, request a carer's assessment from your local council. This evaluates what sort of support or financial benefits could assist you in your caregiving role.

Find Your Local Council

Healthcare Professionals

Should you suspect that professional healthcare support is needed for you or your child, consult your GP or the autism assessment team that issued your diagnosis.

Referrals to specialists could be an option, such as :