Autism is a lifelong condition that affects communication, sensory processing and relating to other people. Around 1% of the UK population have an autism or Asperger’s Syndrome diagnosis. That means in Leeds alone, there are around 7,500 autistic people.
Many autistic children and adults are disadvantaged. For example, only 15% of autistic adults of working age are in full-time, paid employment, despite many being of average or above-average intelligence.
At least one in three autistic adults experience mental health issues due to a lack of support. Many autistic children struggle to get into mainstream schools or enough support in the classroom.
Autism myths
- Despite what some people say, autism is not a learning disability. Although some with an autism diagnosis have a learning disability as well, the two aren’t connected
- Another myth about autism is that people with the condition have no empathy. In actual fact, many autistic people express empathy whenever someone they know is in distress
- Although more boys than girls receive an autism diagnosis, the gap between genders is narrowing
- Autism is not caused by faulty vaccines. It is a lifelong condition that cannot be ‘caught’
- Although some autistic people have special talents, not all of them are like ‘Rain Man’
- Many autistic people actually live and work without needing any support
Autism awareness
Every 2nd April, World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated. The day sees a lot of campaigners, charities and autistic-led groups hold activities. The day’s purpose is to open people’s eyes to what it means to be autistic.
Autism Awareness Month takes place throughout April. World Autism Awareness Day is the most important day of this month-long celebration of all things autism, but other activities can be planned around it.
In Leeds, our event, coupled with others run by local charities, help to mark this special occasion.
