Autism

Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects:

• Social skills

• Communication skills

• Restricted and repetitive behaviours

• Mental health

Autism affects how people see the world and interact with others. Autistic people see, hear and feel the world differently from other people.

If you are autistic, you are autistic for life. Autism is not an illness or disease and cannot be 'cured'. Often people feel being autistic is a basic aspect of their identity.

Autism is a spectrum disorder. As autism is complex, shared struggles can occur. However, this does not mean that every person is the same. Each person with autism requires different types of support.

People with autism may have learning disabilities or difficulties. Mental health will also have a different effect. This means people may require different levels of support.

All people on the autism spectrum can learn and develop. With the right support, they can live a more fulfilling life on their own.

For services based around autism, click here.