Autism is a spectrum, meaning every autistic person has different strengths, needs and experiences. Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how people experience and interact with the world, including how they communicate and interact with others. Autism affects each person differently.
Autism is not a learning disability, although some autistic people also have a learning disability.
You can find out more about autism, the signs, how it is diagnosed and other information on the Mencap website.
The Easy Health website has gathered together various easy-read resources that provide accessible information about autism.
Asperger syndrome
Asperger syndrome was previously used as a separate diagnosis. It is now recognised as part of autism, although some people continue to identify as having Asperger syndrome because it was their original diagnosis.
Support services for autistic people and their families
Local support includes:
- Autism Bedfordshire is a local organisation that offers an information and advice helpline, advocacy and specific projects to help autistic people develop their social and employment skills
- Adult advocacy services
- Carers in Bedfordshire runs meetings and activities to support carers. Carers in Bedfordshire can also provide information about grants, breaks from caring and training opportunities
Other organisations that can help
The National Autistic Society is a leading UK charity supporting autistic people and their families. It provides information, support and services, and campaigns for a society that works for autistic people.
Supporting an autistic family member or friend
If you look after an autistic relative or friend, visit Carers in Bedfordshire for more general information about the help, advice and support that may be available to you as a carer.
Bedfordshire Autism Voice
We've created Bedfordshire Autism Voice, in collaboration with Autism Bedfordshire, to better support local autistic adults.
Bedfordshire Autism Voice holds community-based local meetings to discuss issues that are important to autistic people living in Central Bedfordshire.
Meetings take place once every three months in locations in the north, south and middle of Central Bedfordshire. Each meeting is led by the same specialist coordinator to ensure continuity for attendees. Autistic adults, and parents or carers of autistic people, are welcome to attend.
To find out about meetings in your local area, email enquiries@autismbeds.org.