Helping Autistic people to find support
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition characterised by a different way of thinking and experiencing the world.
The neurodiversity model proposes that all humans have strengths and challenges, but for Autistic people, and other neurodivergent individuals, the variation between their strengths and challenges can be more pronounced.
The National Autistic Society estimates that one in 100 adults and children in the UK are Autistic. It is estimated that 4 in 10 Autistic people also have a learning disability, and 7 in 10 have a mental health condition, but Autism itself is not a learning disability, nor a mental health condition.
Autistic people experience differences in social interaction, communication, patterns of behaviour, activities, and interests.
It is a different way of thinking.
Autism is experienced by people in different ways and is often referred to as a spectrum condition. The spectrum is best thought of as a colour wheel of infinite combinations of strengths and challenges, as opposed to a linear spectrum ranging from ‘more Autistic’ to ‘less Autistic’.
Other conditions that can co-occur alongside Autism include:
Getting support
Some Autistic people in Devon will require support from Health and Social Care, and others may manage independently, with or without support from universal services. The need for support may also fluctuate over time, or in response to a change of circumstance.
Below are some websites which provide advice and resources to help support you.
Pinpoint
You can search for services local to you by using PinPoint. Types of services available include, but are not limited to:
- Advice and advocacy
- Family support and childcare
- Health and wellbeing
- Money matters
- Things to do
Dimensions for Autism
Dimensions for Autism are a group for Autistic adults in Devon who do not have a learning disability. They host face-to-face meetings and have a Discord server for their online community. Dimensions for Autism represent Devon’s Autistic community at Devon County Council meetings, and also provide training. For more information about joining the Discord server or attending face-to-face meetings, please contact trishdarke.dimensionsforautism@gmail.com
Dimensions for Autism, in conjunction with Devon County Council produced The Yellow Brick Road guide, which provides a directory of Autism services for Devon.
The National Autistic Society
The National Autistic Society has 116 volunteer-led branches across the UK, including in Devon. Find your local branch.
Devon Partnership Trust
Devon Partnership Trust (DPT) Devon Adult Autism and ADHD service provides diagnosis and assessment for adults in Devon who have not previously been diagnosed and whose symptoms are consistent with an Autism Spectrum Condition or ADHD.
Information about Housing (with and without support)
Devon County Council’s Housing Options provides information about the types of housing and support available to help you to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible.
Devon County Council Self-help tool and Self Assessments
Do you face challenges in your life? Or do you need advice for a family member?
Why not try our Self-Help Tool?
