Adults with autism isolated and ignored in the UK

Adults with autism isolated and ignored in the UK

According to a report from the National Autistic Society (NAS), 63% of adults with autism in England do not have enough support to meet their needs.

The 'I Exist' report reveals for the first time the miserable daily reality for many thousands of adults with autism. Isolated, ignored and unable to access the support they require, they are often completely dependent on their families.

At least one in three adults with autism is experiencing severe mental health difficulties due to a lack of support. No record is kept by 67% of local authorities of how many adults with autism there are in their area, and neither the government, local authorities, nor primary care trusts know how many adults with autism there are in England. This makes it extremely difficult to plan and deliver the services that people with autism need.

The NAS is calling for a range of support services, provided at the right time, to meet the needs of all adults with autism.

For more information about the 'I Exist' campaign and to download copies of the 'I Exist' report, visit www.think-differently.org.uk.
To find autism services and support networks in your area contact the NAS Autism Services Directory at www.autism.org.uk/autism
directory. This is the UK's most comprehensive directory of services and events for people with autism.

For more information about autism in general, contact the NAS at www.nas.org.uk or call the NAS Autism Helpline on: 0845 070 4004 10am–4pm, Monday to Friday, (local rates apply).