Autism or Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) is a term used to describe a group of lifelong, neurodevelopmental conditions marked by how a person with autism interacts socially, how they communicate and patterns of restricted, stereotyped or repetitive behaviour they may have. It is a lifelong neurological condition: people are born with it, do not grow out of it and it cannot be cured. It is a spectrum condition which means it presents differently in every autistic person.
While all people with autism share common traits, their condition will affect them in very different ways. People with high functioning autism (previously known as Asperger’s Syndrome) have average or above average intelligence and good language skills. Some may be able to function well in school or in the work place, but still have a hard time socialising. Others may find even daily tasks related to independence challenging.
Each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges and so the ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some individuals are able to live independent lives; others will require support at different times in their life and others a lifetime of specialist support.
Autism is not a learning disability or a mental illness. Autistic people can, however, have additional needs including learning disabilities and health and mental health conditions just like anyone else.
For support for people aged 0-25 years with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities, see our information on the SEND Information Hub
Autism and Adult Support Service
We help people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We also support people who are vulnerable, who do not have a diagnosis of disability.
Support includes:
- social care assessment and review
- help to develop care and support plans
- help in your home
- support for carers
- supported living
- help with residential care
We support young people who are likely to need support from adult social care in the future.
National Strategy
The government has a national strategy for autistic children, young people and adults: 2021 to 2026.
Contact us
Telephone: 0345 045 5202
9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday
