Post-Diagnostic Autism Information Pack

 1. What is Autism?

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference.

• It affects how people communicate, process information, experience the world, and interact socially.

• Autism is not a disease and does not need to be “cured.” Instead, autistic people benefit from understanding, acceptance, and the right supports.

Key Characteristics

• Communication differences: may prefer direct, literal language; some use few words or alternative communication.

• Social interaction differences: may enjoy socialising differently (e.g. parallel play, structured activities).

• Sensory processing differences: sensitive to sound, light, texture, or movement; may seek sensory input (rocking, fidgeting).

• Thinking style: preference for routine, predictability; strong focus on interests; detail-oriented.

Strengths Often Seen in Autistic People

• Strong memory and pattern recognition.

• Honesty and directness.

• Deep expertise in areas of interest.

• Creativity, innovation, and problem-solving from unique perspectives.

2. First Steps After Diagnosis

For Children & Families

• Tell the school: Arrange a meeting with the SENCO. Discuss SEN Support or request an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP) assessment if needed.

• Ask about autism-specific parenting programmes (e.g. EarlyBird, Cygnet or NAS workshops).

• Apply for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) if your child has extra care needs.

• Connect with local autism groups for peer support.

For Adults

• Decide whether to disclose at work. Disclosure is a personal choice but can help you access reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.

• Contact Access to Work (gov.uk/access-to-work) for grants towards support workers, travel, and equipment.

• Ask your GP for referrals to:

  • Occupational Therapy (OT) – for sensory/environmental adaptations.

  • Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) – for communication strategies.

  • Mental health support – adapted CBT or autism-friendly counselling.

• Apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if you need help with daily living or mobility.

3. Key Interventions & Supports

Communication

• Speech & Language Therapy (SLT) – supports language, understanding, and alternative communication methods.

• Visual supports – symbols, written instructions, communication cards.

• Social stories – short narratives to explain social rules or routines.

Sensory & Daily Life

• Occupational Therapy (OT) – helps manage sensory sensitivities, motor skills, and daily living tasks.

• Sensory profiles – identify triggers (e.g. noise, smells) and strategies (ear defenders, weighted items, sensory breaks).

• Environmental adjustments – lighting, quiet spaces, predictable routines.

Emotional & Mental Health

• CBT adapted for autism – supports anxiety, depression, and obsessive thinking.

• Mindfulness and regulation strategies – breathing, grounding, sensory tools.

• Mentoring or key worker – consistent, trusted person for support.

Education

• EHCP – a legal plan setting out educational, health, and social care support.

• Classroom accommodations: visual timetables, task breakdowns, quiet spaces, extended time in exams.

• Strengths-based teaching – using interests to motivate learning.

Employment

• Access to Work – government support for job coaches, equipment, transport.

• Workplace accommodations: flexible hours, quiet workspace, written instructions, sensory adjustments.

• Neurodiversity awareness training – for colleagues/managers.

4. Practical Everyday Strategies

At Home

• Keep consistent routines (bedtime, meals, school/work preparation).

• Use visual timetables to show daily activities.

• Prepare for changes in advance (social stories, countdowns).

• Create calm spaces with sensory tools.

At School

• Provide safe spaces for regulation.

• Allow use of headphones, fidgets, or breaks.

• Give clear, concrete instructions.

• Plan for transitions (class changes, moving schools).

At Work

• Provide quiet workspace or noise-cancelling headphones.

• Allow flexible hours or breaks.

• Use written communication alongside verbal.

• Schedule regular structured check-ins with manager.

5. Rights & Entitlements (UK)

• Children:

  • Schools must provide reasonable adjustments.

  • Can apply for an EHCP if needs are significant.

  • Eligible for DLA (Disability Living Allowance).

• Adults:

  • Employers must provide reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010.

  • Can apply for Access to Work support.

  • Eligible for PIP (Personal Independence Payment).

• Carers:

  • May be eligible for Carer’s Allowance.

  • Right to a carer’s needs assessment via local authority.

6. Mental Health & Wellbeing

• Autistic people are at higher risk of anxiety, depression, and burnout.

• Protective strategies:

  • Build downtime into daily routines.

  • Use sensory breaks and self-regulation tools.

  • Encourage safe self-expression through hobbies, interests, creative outlets.

  • Seek autistic-led peer support groups for shared experience.

7. Resources & Where to Get Help

National Organisations

• National Autistic Society (NAS) – information, training, helplines.

• Ambitious about Autism – support for young people and families.

• Contact – advice for families with disabled children.

• Scope – disability rights and support.

Government Schemes

• Access to Work (adults in employment).

• Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP) (children).

• Disability Living Allowance (DLA) / Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Crisis & Mental Health

• NHS 111 (option 2) – urgent mental health support.

• Mind – mental health charity.

• Samaritans (116 123) – 24/7 listening service.

8. Moving Forward

• A diagnosis is a starting point, not an ending.

• Focus on strengths, self-advocacy, and community support.

• Review supports regularly – needs may change with age, transitions, or life circumstances.

• Seek out autistic voices – lived experience is one of the most powerful guides.

Key Message: Being autistic is part of a person’s identity. With understanding, acceptance, and the right supports, autistic children and adults can thrive at home, at school, at work, and in the community.