World Autism Acceptance Month 2022: Moving from Awareness to Acceptance

World Autism Awareness Month has changed its name to World Autism Acceptance Month based on feedback from the autistic community. This reflects the fact that what autistic people want is not just to be seen, but to be understood.

A YouGov poll commissioned by Autistica, the UK’s leading autism research charity, has revealed there is still a widespread lack of understanding and knowledge about autism across the UK. The poll highlights that even as awareness of autism grows there are still many false truths and myths about autism.

Almost half of adults in Britain (46%) think we are all somewhere on the autism spectrum, a belief that minimises the very real challenges autistic people face every day. It was also revealed that 39% of people believe autistic people lack empathy, a common myth that often means autistic people are left out of social activities and relationships.   

To challenge these misconceptions, we are developing the Autistica Autism Attitudes Index - an innovative new research project that will measure the UK population’s general perceptions, beliefs and behaviours towards autism and autistic people and track changes in these attitudes over time. The results, which support Autistica’s 2030 Goal to change public attitudes about autism and autistic people, will help to guide Autistica and other organisations’ activities in working to change those unfounded and often harmful attitudes. 

It is only through creating deeper understanding that we can change the stigma and negative attitudes that people have towards autism and autistic people. Join us this World Autism Acceptance Month and help us in our mission to enable all autistic people to live happier, healthier, longer lives.

How you can get involved

We have a range of fundraising options for you to choose from throughout April. You can pick the one that suits you best or go your own way and create a fundraiser that's unique to you. We'd love to hear what you're doing!