Navigating support

As a parent or carer supporting an autistic person or if you are autistic yourself, navigating the health and social care system can feel overwhelming. Find more information on topics around navigating support in this section.

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Healthcare

Visiting a doctor or dentist can be a stressful experience for many autistic people. We’ve collected tips on how to find an autism-friendly practice and how best to prepare for appointments.

Social care

Autistic adults can have a range of support needs. Read more on how to request a needs assessment and different support options that are available.

Mental health

If you think that you, or the autistic person you support, may be suffering from a mental health condition, there are different services you can contact for support.

Benefits

Autistic people and their parents and carers may be entitled to financial support and social security benefits.

Support groups for families

Many parents and carers find that talking to other families with similar experiences can help.

Online forums

It can be helpful to share advice and talk to other like-minded autistic people online.

Peer support and mentoring

Many autistic people and their families find it useful to talk to others with lived experience of autism.

Peer support and mentoring

Advocating for autistic young people and adults

Sometimes you may come up against barriers, if you’re trying to improve outcomes for yourself or the autistic person you support.