Advice and resources
Finding the right help and advice about learning disabilities and autism can sometimes be difficult and confusing.
Here you’ll find useful information, advice and guidance for adults with learning disabilities and autism, their parents, carers and loved ones. Explore our resources and find the support and information that’s right for you.
Popular resources
Understanding Neurodiversity
What is Autism?
Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a lifelong condition that influences how a person experiences and interacts with the world.
Understanding Neurodiversity
What is a Learning Disability?
A learning disability is a permanent condition caused by differences in how the brain processes information.
Latest Articles
Fashion is for everyone – isn’t it?
Ezinma Mbeledogu, fashion academic and Senior Lecturer at the University for the Creative Arts, shares her perspective on adaptive fashion, representation and why the future of fashion should be shaped alongside the people who wear it.
Our journey to an autism diagnosis: S's Story
S was diagnosed with autism when he was eight years old. Looking back, both S and his mum have different memories of that journey and how his diagnosis affected their lives.
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Life and Independence
Understanding Neurodiversity
Transitioning from School to Adulthood with special needs
The transition to adulthood is one of the most significant and often challenging phases for young people with a learning disability or autism.
Life and Independence
Navigating local travel: Your guide to accessible transport
Being able to get around your local area opens up a world of possibilities and the ability to fully integrate with your local community.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Navigating grief and loss with someone who has additional needs
Grief is one of the most challenging experiences any of us will face. For adults with learning disabilities and autism, processing a death can be especially complex.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Understanding Neurodiversity
What is Masking?
Have you ever felt the need to put on a performance just to get through a social interaction? Or adapt your behaviour to better suit ‘social rules’? For many autistic individuals and adults with learning disabilities this is a daily survival strategy known as social masking.
Rights and Support
Life and Independence
How to find a disability advocate
When it comes to finding the right support for your autistic child or young adult, it can feel overwhelming especially when dealing with schools, healthcare, or benefits systems.
Rights and Support
Employment and Education
What is an EHCP and how to apply
An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is designed to support children and young people (up to age 25) who need more help than a school can usually provide through standard SEN support.
Rights and Support
Independent Living: What support is available?
Adults with learning disabilities and autism have the right to live within their community and make choices about how they live, which ultimately affords them a more independent, empowered and fulfilling life.
Rights and Support
What is 'Right to Choose'? A Simple Guide for Families
If you are waiting for an autism or ADHD assessment in England, you may have heard the term "Right to Choose."
Rights and Support
Employment and Education
SEN Support vs an EHCP: What’s the difference?
In England, nearly 1 in 5 children have special educational needs, with most receiving SEN Support. Meanwhile around 1 in 20 have An Education, Health and Care Plan, known as an EHCP.
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