Our library of autism and neurodiveersity resources is your go-to guide to finding help autism and neurodiversity, whether you're autistic yourself or you're supporting or interacting with autistic people.
We've included resources for subjects such as community integration, relationships and socialising, education, employment, care and support guidance, finances and benefits, mental health, housing, autism charities and support organisations, and all the main professional bodies and institutions that help shape autism services.
Just click on any resource for the full details!
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 Resources  Autism, Diagnosis and What It Means
Finding out what autism is and how it affects you
These resources are for anyone who wants to understand autism in all its forms and presentations. We explore what autism looks like, how diagnosis works (and what it means for you), the nature of the Autism Spectrum, historical aspects (such as Asperger's Syndrome), as well as insights into how autism can present differently (especially in girls and women). These resources are invaluable for anyone who's questioning if they might be autistic, or for parents navigating their child's diagnostic journey, or if you simply want to deepen your knowledge about neurodiversity. |
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| | What is Autism?
Understanding what autism is, and how common it is
Autism influences how people experience and interact with the world. It is a lifelong neurodivergence and disability. Autistic people are different from each other, but for a diagnosis they must share differences from non-autistic people in how they think, feel and communicate. This resource explains what autism is and what its core characteristics are. READ MORE |
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| | Asperger Syndrome
Understanding this specific autism diagnosis
Although Asperger Syndrome is no longer a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5, the National Autistic Society still provides information on its historical context and characteristics. This resource helps those previously diagnosed with Asperger's, or their families, understand where it fits within the broader autism spectrum and what the shift in diagnostic terminology means. READ MORE |
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| | Girls and Women with Autism
Recognising autism in girls and women
The National Autistic Society provides specific insights into how autism can present differently in girls and women, often leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. This resource sheds light on "masking" and social camouflaging behaviours, helping to improve recognition and understanding of autism in this often-underdiagnosed population. READ MORE |
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| | How does an Autism diagnosis work?
What to expect when seeking an autism diagnosis
Ambitious about Autism provides guidance on the autism diagnosis process for children, young people, and adults. It covers what to expect during assessment, the importance of a formal diagnosis, and how it can lead to tailored support. This resource is crucial for parents and carers navigating the complexities of seeking a diagnosis. READ MORE |
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Resources Living with Autism
Strategies for a happier, more meaningful life
Here you'll find a wealth of practical advice and strategies for autistic people and their families to help them navigate daily life effectively. We cover areas such as managing sensory sensitivities, improving communication, understanding and responding to meltdowns, and building fulfilling relationships. These resources aim to empower autistic people to improve their independence, well-being, and quality of life. |
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| | Living with autism
Practical advice for daily life with autism
Autism represents a neurodevelopmental difference, which presents uniquely in each individual but is defined by various traits. Some autistic people require adaptations in routines and environments in order to function effectively. This resource explores the emotional, physical, and social impacts that autistic people live with. It also provides tips to people who are caring for an autistic person. READ MORE |
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| | Autism and Adulthood: A Guide
How to navigate adulthood on the autism spectrum
The American Psychological Association offers a comprehensive guide on autism in adulthood. This resource examines challenges including daily living and mental health, advocating for integrated services and person-centred approaches to improve outcomes and quality of life for autistic adults. READ MORE |
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| | Autism and Communication
Strategies for effective communication for autistic people
The National Autistic Society provides detailed guidance on communication strategies for and with autistic people. This resource explores various forms of communication, including verbal, non-verbal, and alternative methods, offering advice to improve understanding and reduce communication breakdowns for both autistic individuals and those interacting with them. READ MORE |
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| | Challenging Behaviour and Autism
Strategies for positive behaviour support
This article addresses challenging behaviours often exhibited by individuals with autism, offering insights into their nature and effective management strategies. It defines challenging behaviours as actions that significantly interfere with daily life, encompassing a range of expressions such as self-injury, aggression, destruction of property, and non-compliance. The article clarifies that these behaviours are complex, stemming from a... READ MORE |
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| | Managing Meltdowns and shutdowns at school
Understanding and responding to autistic distress
This article explains that life with a youngster with autism and ADHD is full of high emotion - and not all of it positive - and we need to learn to ride that rollercoaster as safely as possible. It's complex, labour-intensive and ever-changing, but there is also an element of surrender. It says that we sometimes try too hard to fix people who aren't broken. In fact, they are happy living life on their terms, and sometimes it's the restraints... READ MORE |
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| | Managing Sensory Sensitivities
Navigating the sensory world for autistic individuals
Sensory integration differences are common in autism, and this resource from the National Autistic Society offers strategies for managing sensory sensitivities. It covers understanding sensory processing, identifying triggers, and creating sensory-friendly environments to help autistic individuals cope with overwhelming or under-stimulating sensory input. READ MORE |
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| | Relationships and Autism
Navigating social connections and romantic relationships
This article from Connections Counselling explores the unique challenges and potential misunderstandings within relationships where one or both partners are on the autism spectrum. It highlights that autism is frequently a "hidden disability," with many autistic individuals expending considerable energy to "mask" their traits to conform, often leading to exhaustion and exacerbated mental health issues. READ MORE |
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Resources Getting Help with Daily Living
Practical support for independence in everyday life
These resources provide practical guidance to help autistic people manage their own daily living as independently as possible, covering essential life skills like managing your own home, budgeting, using public transport, and finding and using community services. We aim to help autistic people to become more independent, make their own informed choices, boost their confidence, and improve their quality of life by developing the skills they need to live daily life on their own terms. |
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| | Independent Living for Autistic People
Resources and support for living independently with autism
This article from Milestones Autism Resources provides a comprehensive overview of essential independent living skills for autistic adults. It underscores that independence is a gradual journey, with skills developing from childhood through adulthood, and acknowledges that each autistic person possesses unique strengths, challenges, and sensory needs. The core message is the importance of assessing individual skills and providing tailored... READ MORE |
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| | Travel and public transport
Accessible travel for autistic people
The National Autistic Society provides guidance on navigating travel and public transport for autistic individuals. This resource offers practical tips for planning journeys, managing sensory environments on public transport, and accessing assistance schemes, aiming to reduce anxiety and make travel more accessible and comfortable. READ MORE |
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Resources Getting Help with Finances and Benefits
Guidance on financial support and welfare benefits
These resources offer detailed guidance on accessing financial support and welfare benefits for autistic people, their families, and their carers, covering subjects like eligibility criteria, application processes, appeals, grants and other sources of funding. They will help you establish financial stability, reduce stress, and improve the quality of life for autistic people and their carers. |
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| | Benefits and Financial Support
A guide to financial support for autistic people
The National Autistic Society offers comprehensive information on welfare benefits available to autistic people and their families in the UK. It covers eligibility criteria for various benefits, guidance on applying, and advice on appeals, aiming to help individuals access crucial financial support and navigate the complex benefits system. READ MORE |
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| | Carer's Allowance (UK)
Financial help for carers of disabled people
The UK Government web site provides information on Carer's Allowance, a benefit for individuals who spend a significant amount of time caring for someone with a disability, including autism. This resource outlines eligibility criteria, how to apply, and the impact on other benefits, supporting those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. READ MORE |
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| | Claiming Universal Credit (UK)
Navigating the Universal Credit system with autism
Citizens Advice provides detailed information on Universal Credit, a key welfare benefit, for those with health conditions or disabilities, including autism. This resource explains how to apply, report changes, and manage your claim, offering practical support to ensure autistic individuals can access this vital income support. READ MORE |
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| | Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for Autistic Children
Welfare benefits for autistic children
This blog entry from Renaissance Legal provides a valuable overview of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children under 16 with autism. It clarifies that DLA is a crucial benefit designed to help families cover the extra care and supervision costs associated with raising an autistic child, distinguishing it from support for neurotypical children. The article underscores how a successful DLA claim can also unlock access to additional... READ MORE |
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| | Grants and funding
Finding additional financial support for autistic people
The National Autistic Society provides guidance on grants and additional funding sources beyond standard welfare benefits. This resource helps individuals and families identify charitable grants, local funding schemes, and other financial assistance specifically aimed at supporting autistic people and covering associated costs. READ MORE |
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| | Managing Your Money
Financial literacy for autistic adults
The National Autistic Society provides practical advice on managing money for autistic individuals. This resource covers budgeting, banking, understanding bills, and avoiding financial pitfalls, aiming to equip autistic adults with essential financial literacy skills for greater independence and security in daily living. READ MORE |
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| | Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Claiming PIP for autism and daily living needs
Citizens Advice explains Personal Independence Payment (PIP), a benefit for individuals with long-term health conditions or disabilities, including autism. It clarifies eligibility, the assessment process, and how to effectively articulate the impact of autism on daily living and mobility to ensure a successful claim. READ MORE |
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Resources Community and Integration
Making connections and participating in society
These resources aim to support autistic people to actively engage with their communities and integrate more completely into society. We cover socialising, leisure activities, navigating public services, understanding your legal rights, and finding meaningful employment and education opportunities. We aim to nurture greater inclusion, independence, and participation in all aspects of life. |
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| | Autism and Education
Supporting autistic children in school
This article from Autism Speaks focuses on the crucial role of education for children with autism, stressing the need for tailored approaches to foster their personal growth and development. It outlines various resources available to ensure autistic students receive the best possible educational support. READ MORE |
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| | Autism and the Criminal Justice System
Support for autistic people in contact with the law
The National Autistic Society provides guidance for autistic individuals interacting with the criminal justice system, whether as victims, witnesses, or suspects. It offers advice on understanding legal processes, communication adjustments, and accessing appropriate support, aiming to ensure fair treatment and reduce distress within the system. READ MORE |
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| | Employment and Autism
Finding and keeping work for autistic adults
The National Autistic Society provides guidance on employment for autistic adults, addressing both challenges and strengths in the workplace. This resource offers advice on job searching, interviews, workplace adjustments, and legal rights, aiming to help autistic individuals secure meaningful employment and thrive in their careers. READ MORE |
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| | Public services and autism
Accessing and navigating public services
This article from Autism Awareness Australia offers guidance for autistic adults navigating various public systems, including healthcare, law enforcement, the judicial system, and social services like Centrelink. It acknowledges the significant challenges these interactions can present and provides practical strategies for effective engagement. READ MORE |
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| | Socialising and leisure activities
Engaging in social activities and hobbies
This article from the Autism Awareness Centre underscores the vital importance of developing meaningful leisure activities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to enhance their overall well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction. It notes that autistic individuals often face unique challenges in developing leisure interests, as they may not readily learn through observation or imitation, and their passions might manifest in... READ MORE |
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| | Understanding the Law and Your Rights
Legal information for autistic people
The Autism Alliance UK's "Autism and the Law" section provides a comprehensive overview of legal rights and protections for autistic individuals and their families across the UK. It highlights key legislative frameworks designed to safeguard these rights, including the Human Rights Act 1998, which ensures fundamental freedoms; the Mental Capacity Act 2005, addressing decision-making capacity; and the Equality Act 2010, which mandates... READ MORE |
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Resources Autism Care Guides and Information
Guidance for the best kind of care and support
These resources provide detailed information and guides to navigating care and support services for autistic people of all ages, covering subjects like needs assessments, care planning, safeguarding, crisis support, and preparing for adulthood. We aim to help autistic people, their families, and their carers to establish compassionate, person-centred support with the goal of nurturing true independence and well-being, both physically and mentally. |
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| | Good Practice Guide: Communication
Enhancing communication in autism care
This guide from SUSE offers valuable insights for employers seeking to foster effective communication with individuals with disabilities, with a specific focus on autistic employees. It strongly advises against making assumptions about an individual's communication needs and instead encourages open dialogue, urging employers to ask for direct advice on preferred methods. The guide also stresses the importance of using positive and respectful... READ MORE |
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| | Safeguarding Autistic People
Protecting vulnerable autistic individuals
The UK government has introduced new guidance and a significant code of practice aimed at enhancing the quality of care for autistic individuals and those with learning disabilities, directly contributing to their safeguarding. This initiative, known as the Oliver McGowan code of practice on statutory learning disability and autism training, is designed to ensure that all health and social care staff acquire the essential skills and... READ MORE |
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| | Social Care for Autistic People
The UK government strategy for a better autistic life
In 2022, the UK government announced a strategy aimed at profoundly improving the lives of autistic individuals. This ambitious five-year plan sought to dismantle the inequalities and pervasive barriers that autistic people often encounter, thereby empowering them to live more independent and fulfilling lives. A central pillar of the strategy is dedicated to accelerating diagnoses and enhancing access to comprehensive health and social care... READ MORE |
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| | UK Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans
Navigating support for children with special educational needs
The UK Government web site offers a comprehensive guide for parents and carers on Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans. This resource explains the purpose of EHC plans, who needs one, and the process for obtaining and reviewing them, ensuring children and young people with autism receive tailored educational and health support. READ MORE |
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Resources Autism in Education and at Work
Making education and work inclusive and satisfying
These resources aim to support autistic people in both educational settings and in the workplace, covering best-practice guidance for schools to create inclusive environments as well as helpful advice for employers about recruiting, supporting, and retaining autistic staff, and the unique advantages they can bring to the workforce. We aim to improve their understanding of autism, help them make reasonable adjustments, and unlock the full potential of autistic learners and workers. |
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| | Employing Autistic People
A guide for inclusive employers
This guidance document, "Supporting Autistic People in Employment: How to be an Inclusive Employer," offers comprehensive advice for employers in Northern Ireland to create more inclusive workplaces for autistic individuals. It begins by clarifying terminology like "autism" and "neurodiversity," emphasising that autistic people are a diverse group with varied needs and strengths, often having co-existing conditions. READ MORE |
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| | Good Practices for Schools
Creating autism-friendly educational environments
The Autism Education Trust (AET), in partnership with Ambitious about Autism, provides comprehensive good practice guidance for schools. This resource offers practical strategies for creating inclusive educational environments, adapting curricula, and supporting autistic pupils' social, emotional, and academic development, promoting better outcomes in education. READ MORE |
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Resources Mental Health Support
Understanding and improving your mental health
These resources will help you to understand and manage the mental health issues that are often experienced by autistic people, offering insights into why certain conditions (like anxiety, depression, ADHD, and OCD) are so common, and helping you to recognise their symptoms. We aim to help autistic people and their families to find appropriate, autism-informed support and therapy, to improve mental well-being as part of a holistic care plan. |
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| | Anxiety and Autism
Managing anxiety in autistic adults
This article explains that studies show that up to 50% of autistic adults experience an anxiety disorder, double the rate in neurotypical adults, often leading to misdiagnosis due to overlapping traits. Untreated anxiety can result in depression, aggression, and self-harm. Research suggests structural differences in the autistic amygdala imply a need for autism-specific anxiety management, though studies on effective treatments are limited... READ MORE |
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| | Depression and Autism
Recognising and addressing depression in autistic people
The National Autistic Society provides information on depression in autistic individuals, a condition often co-occurring with autism. This resource helps in recognising the signs of depression, which can differ from neurotypical presentations, and offers guidance on seeking effective support and treatment tailored to autistic needs. READ MORE |
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| | Eating Disorders and Autism
Understanding the connection and seeking support
BEAT, a UK eating disorder charity, provides information on the heightened prevalence of eating disorders among autistic individuals. This resource explores the reasons behind this link, such as sensory sensitivities and rigid thinking, and offers guidance on recognising symptoms and accessing specialist support tailored to autistic people's needs. READ MORE |
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| | Mental Health and Autism
Understanding co-occurring mental health conditions
The National Autistic Society provides comprehensive information on mental health issues commonly experienced by autistic people. This resource explains why autistic individuals are more susceptible to conditions like anxiety and depression, and offers guidance on recognising symptoms, seeking appropriate support, and managing co-occurring mental health challenges effectively. READ MORE |
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| | Mental health problems - an introduction
General mental health awareness with links to autism
Mind, a mental health charity, provides a general introduction to various mental health problems. While not solely autism-focused, this resource offers foundational knowledge on conditions that frequently co-occur with autism, empowering individuals and carers to recognise symptoms and seek broader mental health support. READ MORE |
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| | Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Autism
Exploring the link between OCD and autism
Although this article is over 5 years old, it still stands. It explores the significant and often misunderstood overlap between autism and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a reality for many, like Steve Slavin, diagnosed with both in adulthood. Studies show a high co-occurrence, with up to 17% of autistic people having OCD, and a larger proportion of those with OCD potentially having undiagnosed autism. Misdiagnosis is common, as autistic... READ MORE |
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| | Suicide and Autism
Understanding risk and seeking crisis support
Autistica provides vital information on the heightened risk of suicide among autistic people. This crucial resource offers insights into contributing factors, identifies warning signs, and directs individuals and their families to immediate crisis support and prevention strategies, aiming to save lives and promote mental well-being. READ MORE |
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Resources Autism Charities and Organisations
Organisations that provide help and advocacy
These resources detail some of the most important charities and organisations that support autistic people and their families, offering an overview of their missions, the services they offer, and their contributions to advocacy, research, and improving public understanding. These resources are invaluable for finding direct support, reliable information, and ways you can engage with the wider autism community. |
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| | Ambitious about Autism
Charity for Children and Young People with Autism
Ambitious about Autism is a national charity focused on supporting children and young people with autism. They run specialist schools and colleges, provide expert advice, and campaign for better education and opportunities. Their work aims to empower young autistic individuals to lead fulfilling lives. READ MORE |
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| | Autism Alliance
Network of UK Autism Organisations
Autism Alliance is a network of specialist autism charities across the UK, collaborating to share best practices and influence policy. They represent diverse local and regional organisations, working together to provide comprehensive support, advocacy, and information, strengthening the collective voice for autistic people and their families nationwide. READ MORE |
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| | Autism Initiatives
Providing UK Autism Support and Services
Autism Initiatives is a provider of services for autistic people across the UK, offering residential care, supported living, and day services. They are committed to delivering person-centred support that empowers individuals to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives within their communities. READ MORE |
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| | Autistica
UK Autism Research Charity
Autistica is a UK charity dedicated to funding and catalysing world-class autism research. They focus on understanding the causes of autism, developing new interventions, and improving the lives of autistic people through evidence-based practices. Their work aims to accelerate scientific discovery and translate it into real-world impact. READ MORE |
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| | National Autistic Society
Leading UK Charity for Autistic People
The National Autistic Society is the UK's largest autism charity, providing comprehensive support, information, and campaigning for autistic individuals and their families. They offer advice services, education initiatives, and run campaigns to improve public understanding and acceptance, working towards a society that works for autistic people. READ MORE |
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| | Research Autism
Independent UK Charity Evaluating Autism Research
Research Autism is an independent UK charity dedicated to evaluating and disseminating high-quality research on autism interventions and treatments. They provide unbiased, evidence-based information to help autistic people and their families make informed choices about various therapies and approaches, promoting critical thinking and safety. READ MORE |
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| | Scottish Autism
Comprehensive Autism Support in Scotland
Scottish Autism is a leading provider of autism services in Scotland, offering education, residential care, and community support. They aim to improve the quality of life for autistic individuals and their families, working towards a society that truly understands and accepts autism across all age groups and abilities. READ MORE |
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Resources Professional Bodies and Institutions
Key organisations influencing autism care
These resources are a summary of some of the most influential professional bodies and government institutions that shape the standards, policies, and practices related to caring for people with autism. They cover organisations involved in medical, psychological, social care, and educational fields, highlighting their contributions to better autism care, advocacy, oversight, and research. We aim to help you understand the framework that underpins autism support, and to identify truly authoritative sources of information. |
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| | British Medical Association (BMA)
Representing doctors and influencing health policy
The British Medical Association (BMA) is the professional association and trade union for doctors in the UK. While not exclusively focused on autism, the BMA influences health policy and advocates for better healthcare provision, including for neurodevelopmental conditions, impacting how autistic people access and receive medical care. READ MORE |
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| | British Psychological Society (BPS)
Professional body for psychology in the UK
The British Psychological Society (BPS) is the representative body for psychology and psychologists in the UK. They set standards for psychological practice, education, and research. BPS provides ethical guidelines and promotes psychological understanding of conditions like autism, influencing best practices in assessment, intervention, and support. READ MORE |
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| | Care Quality Commission (CQC)
Regulating health and social care services in England
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. They monitor, inspect, and regulate services for quality and safety, including those supporting autistic people. CQC ensures services meet fundamental standards, publishing ratings to help individuals choose appropriate, safe, and effective care. READ MORE |
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| | Department of Health and Social Care (UK)
Government department for health and social care policy
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is the government department responsible for health and adult social care policy in England. They set the strategic framework for autism support, including legislation and national strategies, influencing funding and service delivery for autistic people across the healthcare and social care systems. READ MORE |
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| | Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Regulating health and care professionals in the UK
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is a regulatory body that sets and maintains standards for a wide range of health and care professions in the UK, including many who work with autistic people. They ensure professionals are competent and meet ethical standards, safeguarding the public and promoting high-quality care. READ MORE |
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| | National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)
Guidance and advice to improve health and social care
NICE provides UK guidance and advice to improve health and social care. They publish clinical guidelines for autism, covering diagnosis, assessment, and management for both children and adults. These guidelines are crucial for healthcare professionals, ensuring consistent, high-quality, and evidence-based care for autistic individuals across the NHS. READ MORE |
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| | NHS England
National health service policy and provision for autism
NHS England is responsible for the overall commissioning and oversight of health services in England. They publish policies, strategies, and guidance related to autism, aiming to improve diagnostic pathways, reduce waiting times, and enhance the quality of healthcare provision for autistic children and adults across the country. READ MORE |
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| | Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)
Guidance for GPs on autism care
The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) is the professional body for GPs in the UK. They provide resources and training to help GPs improve early identification and ongoing care for autistic patients. Their work aims to enhance primary care understanding of autism, ensuring better referrals and holistic support. READ MORE |
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| | Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT)
Promoting occupational therapy for autism support
The Royal College of Occupational Therapists (RCOT) is the professional body for occupational therapists in the UK. They promote the role of occupational therapy in supporting autistic individuals to engage in meaningful daily activities, fostering independence and well-being through practical, person-centred interventions. READ MORE |
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| | Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH)
Professional standards for child health, including autism
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) is the professional body for paediatricians in the UK. They set standards for child health, including neurodevelopmental conditions like autism. Their resources guide paediatricians on diagnosis, assessment, and ongoing care for autistic children, promoting early intervention and comprehensive support. READ MORE |
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| | Royal College of Psychiatrists
Guidance on mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions
The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional medical body responsible for educating and representing psychiatrists in the UK. They publish evidence-based guidance on various mental health conditions, including autism, providing clinical resources for professionals and accessible information for the public on diagnosis and treatment. READ MORE |
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| | Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Advancing speech and language therapy for communication needs
The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) is the professional body for speech and language therapists (SLTs) in the UK. They set standards for practice and advocate for effective communication support for individuals with communication difficulties, including autistic people, enhancing their ability to interact and participate. READ MORE |
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| | Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)
Promoting best practice in social care for autistic people
The Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE) is a leading improvement agency for social care in the UK. They provide evidence-based resources, guidance, and training to improve the quality of care for vulnerable adults and children, including autistic individuals, promoting person-centred approaches and effective service delivery. READ MORE |
This is Peter Clark. We're out there every day helping autistic people live happier, more fulfilling lives. We don't charge for what we do but, if you'd like to help us make lives better, we're very grateful for even the smallest of donations - but it's entirely your choice!
