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Autism

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Autism

Contents

What autism is
Key signs and characteristics
Strengths and challenges
Getting assessed and diagnosed
Support in education
Support for families
Related guidance

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What autism is

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world.
 It is a spectrum condition, meaning every autistic person has their own combination of strengths and challenges.

Autism is not an illness or something to be “cured”. The focus is on understanding and supporting individual needs.

Related guidance

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
  • Social Communication Difficulties
  • Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Education
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    Key signs and characteristics

    Autistic people may:

    • find social interaction or conversation difficult

    • prefer routines and predictability

    • experience intense interests in specific topics

    • be sensitive to sound, light or touch

    • find it hard to understand facial expressions or tone

    • prefer to spend time alone to recover from social situations

    Check early signs of autism
    Learn what to look for if you think you or your child may be autistic.

    Strengths and challenges

    Autistic people often have:
     Strengths

    • strong attention to detail

    • deep focus and specialist interests

    • honesty and reliability

    • strong sense of fairness

    Challenges

    • sensory overload or anxiety

    • difficulty with social expectations

    • changes in routine

    • misunderstandings in communication

    Learn about autism strengths and challenges
    Understand how differences in thinking can be both beneficial and challenging.

    Getting assessed and diagnosed

    Assessment is carried out by:

    • a GP referral to an autism assessment service

    • paediatricians, psychologists or psychiatrists

    • multidisciplinary teams using observation, interviews and questionnaires

    Diagnosis can help access support, adjustments, and benefits.

    Find out how to get an autism assessment

    Support in education

    Schools and tutors can help by:

    • creating clear routines and expectations

       

    • using visual supports and structured timetables

       

    • offering quiet or sensory-friendly spaces

       

    • breaking tasks into smaller steps

       

    • using interests to motivate learning

     

    If needs are significant, an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) may be appropriate.

    Guidance on SEN and EHCPs for autistic students

    Support for families

    Families can access:

    • parent training and autism education workshops

       

    • local autism support groups

       

    • respite care and social opportunities

       

    • advice from SENCo, GP or local authority

       

    External resources:

    NHS: Autism overview
    National Autistic Society
    Ambitious About Autism

    Get autism support

    Find professionals who understand autism and can provide tailored educational and emotional support.

    Search for autism tutors and therapists