About The National Autistic Society

Who we are

The National Autistic Society is the UK's leading charity for people affected by autism (including Asperger syndrome). We were founded in 1962, by a group of parents who were passionate about ensuring a better future for their children. Today we have over 17,000 members, 80 branches and provide:

information, advice advocacy, training and support for individuals and their families
information and training for health, education and other professionals working with people with autism and their families
specialist residential, supported living, outreach and day services for adults
specialist schools and education outreach services for children
out-of-school services for children and young people
employment training and support and social programmes for adults with autism.

A local charity with a national presence, we campaign and lobby for lasting positive change for people affected by autism.

Did you know that in one year...

2.646 million people visited our website
38,000 queries were dealt with by our Autism Helpline
1,650 families were supported by our Parent to Parent support line
2,788 families attended help! programmes
432 places for children were available in our schools
388 children attended our out-of-school clubs
250 adults used our residential services
177 adults received daytime support
344 adults were supported by our Prospects employment service
300 services were registered with the Autism Accreditation programme.