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National Autistic Society

We are here to transform lives and change attitudes to help create a society that works for autistic people.

About National Autistic Society


Tags: Special educational needs (SEN) & neurodiversity Autism & neurodiversity Neurodiversity Children & Education Advocacy, awareness & campaigning

Around 700,000 people in the UK are on the autism spectrum. Together with their families they make up around 2.8 million people whose lives are touched by autism every single day.

Since 1962, we have been providing support, guidance and advice, as well as campaigning for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people.

All our work is guided by our vision, mission and values, which have been developed alongside autistic people and family members.

Our vision
A society that works for autistic people.

Our mission
To transform lives by providing support, information and practical advice for the 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK, as well as their three million family members and carers.

To change attitudes by improving public understanding of autism and helping businesses, local authorities and government to provide more autism-friendly spaces, deliver better services and improve laws.

Our values
We learn from real experience. We’ve spent over 50 years working together with people on the autism spectrum. No one has more practical knowledge of autism. But we move with the times and we understand that there’s always more to learn.

We tell it like it is. We share what we have learned about autism, so that more people can make informed decisions and lead the best lives possible.

We inspire. We celebrate progress, open up new possibilities, spur people into action and motivate change.

We are courageous. We won’t accept ignorance or inequality, and we’ll never stop pushing for more understanding, greater support and a better world for people on the autism spectrum.

£16

Could go towards ensuring our online community is there for everyone who needs it.

£60

Could help provide a lifeline to an isolated autistic person and their family thanks to our branch and social group network.

£160

Could contribute to helping us support an autistic person with a job coach to get them appointed and mentored.