3.5 million families in the UK are affected by autism. Autism is characterised by communication difficulties using language effectively and forming relationships with other people. Stress is the single biggest factor affecting quality of life for autistic people and their families, causing significant impact across all key aspects of their life. Despite wide recognition that autistic people are particularly susceptible to stress, there is little research or information on coping strategies.

We are holding a Stress Summit to listen to autistic people, their families as well as leading scientists and researchers. We will explore knowledge gaps and identify research priorities. We will then commission research which will identify practical tools and strategies for dealing with stress. Our project will be to develop and produce a Microsite and a series of Essential Guides aimed at providing the autism community key tools and strategies to deal with stress