World Autism Acceptance Day and Month starts today!

Today (Wednesday 2 April) is World Autism Awareness Day and the beginning of World Autism Acceptance Month!

It is an opportunity for everyone to come together and:

• raise awareness;
• foster acceptance; and
• create a society where autistic people are supported, understood, and empowered.

Autistic people face discrimination and barriers across all sectors of society, in:

• the health and social care systems;
• education;
• employment; and
• everywhere in between.

It is crucial that autistic people, and their families and carers, can access tailored information, guidance and support to overcome those barriers, along with opportunities to explore their interest, develop skills and build friendships for fulfilled lives.

The National Autistic Society shared the following facts:

• 8/10 of autistic people experience mental health problems;
• only 26% of autistic pupils feel happy at school;
• only 30% of autistic people are in any type of employment.

Whether you are at home, school or at work, your involvement can make a big difference. It is about how you show up - whether you are supporting your autistic colleagues, students or family members, your actions can help create an inclusive and accepting world.

You can enter your details hereto download the National Autistic Society's World Autism Acceptance at Work Toolkit.