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What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way people perceive and interact with the world around them.
It can make communication challenging, lead to repetitive behaviors, and cause sensitivity to things like sound or touch. It's important to know that autism looks different for each person, with a wide range of strengths, difficulties, and support needs.
Facts about autism:
- Only 16% of adults with autism in the UK have full-time jobs.
- In Lambeth, over 4,100 people are registered with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
- In Lambeth, most people with autism are White (39%) or Black (32%).
- More males (72%) are diagnosed with autism compared to females (28%).
- 50% of those diagnosed with autism in Lambeth are between 6 and 18 years old.
- 61% of diagnosed cases come from areas with high levels of deprivation.
Common signs of autism
Parents and carers often notice their child struggles with using language, making eye contact, making friends and playing well with other children.
The National Autistic Society’s website has more information about how to spot autism. Anyone worried child, can speak to a doctor (GP), a nursery worker or the SENDCO at their school, who will offer advice, support or decide to refer for specialist help or an assessment.
Lambeth’s all age autism strategy
Lambeth has developed an All Age Autism Strategy to enhance the lives of autistic individuals and their families in our community