Autism Alert card
Autism Alert cards are available to anyone who has been diagnosed with a condition on the autistic spectrum. Similar in size to a credit card, the card is easy to carry in a purse or wallet and aims to improve communications between the emergency services and people with autism.
Autism is a lifelong condition affecting around 1 in 100 people in the United Kingdom. Autism affects different people in different ways, but the characteristics of the disorder can generally be divided into three groups. These are:
- difficulties with social communication
- difficulties with social interaction, and
- difficulties with social imagination.
The card includes a contact telephone number as well as explaining how a person's behaviour may be affected by their condition. It has been designed to help officers to better understand the needs of a person with autism and will ensure appropriate support for the person is found, if needed.
Issued by the National Autistic Society (NAS) in partnership with Cleveland Police, the card is supported by local councils, Hartlepool United Disabled Supporters Association, Cleveland Criminal Justice Board and various voluntary sector groups. Hartlepool United Football Club's Victoria Ground played host to a series of events leading up to the formal launch event in November last year.
The Autism Alert card costs £2.50 plus postage from the NAS online shop.
For more information
For more information, visit the National Autistic Society website or contact the north-east regional office by:
- Email: northeast@nas.org.uk
- Telephone: 0191 568 0733