What is Autism?

Autism is a brain developmental difference meaning individuals have both social & communication differences and experience the world differently.

There can be restrictive or sensory differences and how people experience the world is different to the predominant neurotype (the way the brain processes information) in the population. Each individual is unique and there can be many positive aspects of being autistic, but there can also be challenges.
The different experiences an autistic person can have vary depending on circumstances and can be affected by factors such as over or under processing of information, insufficient rest or regulation and the environment. It can therefore be very helpful to be curious and explore any challenges an autistic person could be having and what their needs might be. A simple change could make a huge difference towards supporting them to perform their best and reach their potential.

The data on prevalence rates vary considerably and are likely to continue to increase with greater awareness and capacity for diagnosis. The National Autistic Society quotes 1% of the UK population are autistic, whilst studies from the USA have quoted 1 in 36 children are autistic. The latest figures from the Department for education (June 2024) state that around 20% of children have Special Educational Needs and 30% of those are autistic. Statistically, this equates to there being 2 autistic children in a class of 30.

The majority of the population have the predominant neurotype for processing information, however Autism, and a range of other neurodiversities, processing information differently. These include ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Foetal Alcohol Syndrome, Tic disorders and more. We have learnt from research of autistic adults that the autistic population generally prefer to consider autism as a difference and an identity rather than a condition.

Autistic individuals are now referred to in terms of their support needs rather than the more dated reference to a functioning level. This helps recognise that differences and support needs should be explored for each individual, and recognise that their needs can fluctuate within a daily basis and can be affected by a number of factors.

Famous people who are autistic and have excelled in certain areas, will have challenges in other areas,
e.g. footballer Lionel Messi, actors: Dan Aykroyd, Antony Hopkins & Daryl Hannah, business founders: Bill Gates, Steve Jobs & Elon Musk, artist Andy Warhol, and the creator of Pokemon, Satoshi Tajiri, amongst many more.
Ambassadors for autism in the UK include celebrities Carrie Grant, Chris Packham, Christine McGuiness, Greg Wallace, Ken Bruce, and the comedian Fern Brady.