ND Resources

The National Autistic Society (NAS) is the leading charity in the United Kingdom dedicated to improving the lives of people on the autism spectrum and their families. Founded in 1962, NAS has grown into a vital organization offering a wide array of services, advocacy, and support aimed at fostering understanding and acceptance of autism. The charity operates under the belief that autistic individuals deserve the same opportunities as anyone else to live fulfilled and productive lives.

Mission and Objectives

The National Autistic Society's mission is to transform lives, change attitudes, and create a society that works for autistic people. The organization works to:

• Increase understanding and awareness of autism: NAS campaigns for the rights and entitlements of autistic individuals and provides information to help the public, professionals, and policymakers understand autism better.
• Provide support and services: NAS offers a variety of services tailored to the needs of autistic people, including education, residential care, employment support, and social groups.
• Champion the rights of autistic people: The charity advocates for systemic changes in policy and practice to ensure that autistic individuals have access to appropriate education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

Key Services and Programs

1. Education Services:

   • Autism-Specific Schools: NAS runs a number of schools across the UK specifically designed to support children and young people with autism. These schools provide tailored educational programs that address the unique needs of autistic students.
   • Outreach and Support: NAS offers outreach services that provide support to autistic students in mainstream schools, helping them to access education on an equal footing with their peers.

2. Adult Services:

   • Residential and Supported Living: NAS offers residential care and supported living services for autistic adults, ensuring they can live as independently as possible while receiving the necessary support.
   • Employment Support: The charity provides employment programs designed to help autistic adults find and maintain meaningful work. These programs include job coaching, skills development, and employer training.

3. Autism Helpline:

   • NAS operates a helpline that offers information, advice, and support to autistic individuals, their families, and professionals. The helpline is staffed by trained advisors who can provide guidance on a wide range of issues, from diagnosis to accessing services.

4. Campaigns and Advocacy:

   • Too Much Information (TMI) Campaign: This is one of NAS's most well-known campaigns, aimed at increasing public understanding of the sensory sensitivities and challenges faced by autistic individuals.
   • Public Policy and Advocacy: NAS actively engages with policymakers to influence legislation and policies that impact the lives of autistic people. The organization works to ensure that the voices of autistic individuals are heard at all levels of government.

5. Training and Consultancy:

   • NAS provides training and consultancy services to organizations and professionals who work with autistic people. This includes training for educators, healthcare providers, employers, and law enforcement personnel, aimed at improving their ability to support and interact with autistic individuals effectively.

6. Autism-Friendly Environments:

   • NAS works with businesses, public spaces, and events to create autism-friendly environments. This includes advising on adjustments that can make these spaces more accessible to autistic people, such as quiet hours in shops and sensory-friendly screenings in cinemas.

Research and Publications

The National Autistic Society is also involved in research to improve understanding of autism and to develop new interventions and support strategies. The charity regularly publishes reports, guides, and toolkits on various aspects of autism, including diagnosis, education, and employment.

Impact and Reach

NAS has a significant impact on the lives of autistic people in the UK. Each year, the charity reaches hundreds of thousands of individuals through its services, support programs, and information resources. The organization's campaigns have also played a crucial role in raising public awareness and promoting a more inclusive society.

How to Get Involved

Individuals can get involved with NAS in various ways, including:

• Volunteering: NAS offers a range of volunteer opportunities, from helping out at events to providing direct support to autistic individuals.
• Fundraising: The charity relies on donations and fundraising activities to continue its work. People can participate in sponsored events, donate directly, or organize their own fundraising efforts.
• Membership: Becoming a member of NAS provides access to additional resources, as well as the opportunity to be more involved in the charity’s advocacy efforts.

Contact Information

• Website: autism.org.uk
• Helpline: 0808 800 4104
• Address: National Autistic Society, 393 City Road, London, EC1V 1NG, United Kingdom

The National Autistic Society continues to be a powerful advocate for autistic individuals and their families, striving to create a society where everyone can thrive.