Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) affect around 700,000 people in the UK, meaning that over 2.8 million people have a family member on the autism spectrum. It’s a lifelong condition that affects how people interact with others, and its impact may depend on where the person sits on the spectrum. The National Autistic Society defines autism as a lifelong, developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people and how they experience the world around them.
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Caring for an autistic child
Fostering any child, whether they are on the autism spectrum or not, will bring both its challenges and rewards. There is lots of support out there, including specific support for children with autism and those who care for them.
- The NHS website has a helpful directory of autism support, including national charities and forums.
- You might want to join local support groups for autism, such as those listed by The National Autistic Society and Autism Central, or your local authority may have its own support groups.
- There are also other organisations that provide support to families, offer training, and provide activities and events in a supportive environment.
We have also created the following group of resources to support you.