It’s Autism Awareness Week

This week is Autism Awareness Week; it is all about helping people to get a better understanding of autism.

Being autistic does not mean you have an illness or disease, it means your brain works in a different way from other people. It’s something you’re born with or first appears when you’re very young. Autistic people may find it hard to communicate and interact with other people and find it difficult to understand how people think and feel. They can get anxious or upset about unfamiliar situations and social events.

The pandemic has been particularly tough for many autistic people and their families. The ever-changing guidelines and restrictions can be confusing and difficult to implement for autistic people with high support needs. A better understanding of autism across society, from schools to workplaces would transform hundreds of thousands of lives. That’s why we need everyone to do their bit to help to make the world a little more autism-friendly.

How you can get involved

Join Christine McGuinness and sign up for a Super 7 Challenge

Formerly known as 7k for 700k, we are asking you to take on a Super 7 Challenge. From running, walking or cycling to creating art, music or food – choose your own 7-themed activity.

Fundraise

The National Autistic Society has got lots of ideas to help you raise money in a safe and enjoyable way during these difficult times:

Facebook fundraiser

Help make a difference by setting up a Facebook fundraiser. Ask your friends and family to donate to your cause and tell them why. A compelling ask is sometimes all it takes.

Virtual quiz

Host a quiz online and ask for a donation to take part. You can theme the quiz around​ a much-loved topic area or person, or you can​ try one of the ready-made quizzes.

Sponsored haircuts and colours

Depending on you and your level of daring, you can ask friends and family to sponsor you to have your hair cut by a loved one, shave your head or colour your hair or beard. We suggest only doing this fundraising activity if you are being responsible with scissors and following safety information with colouring products.

Learn more

The National Autistic Society has also created a range of free resources for all age groups to help people learn about autism.

You can also test your autism awareness by trying one of the National Autistic Society quizzes with friends, family or colleagues!

You can find out more about autism on both the National Autistic Society and NHS website.