Question 1

How can I access your Peer Support?

Accepted Answer

You can access our Peer Support services if you are Autistic (self identification is valid) and a parent living in the UK. 
You can fill in our referral form and one of our Peer Supporters will contact you with the next steps. If you have any questions you can always email us enquiries@autisticparentsuk.org or fill in our contact form.

Question 2

Who can submit a referral form?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can submit a referral form – you don’t need a referral from a healthcare professional. Our peer support is available to all Autistic parents, whether you have a formal diagnosis or are self-identified as Autistic.
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If you are a healthcare professional or community services representative working with an Autistic parent you believe could benefit from our peer support services, you can also submit a referral form on their behalf.

Question 3

What happens once I submit a referral form?

Accepted Answer

Once you submit your form, it will be securely uploaded to our administration system and placed on a waiting list to be allocated to one of our peer supporters.
A peer supporter will contact you to arrange an initial meeting via video or audio call on Google Meet.​
This initial meeting, called a triage call, is where we’ll discuss the support available and what you are looking for from us.
You will then be allocated to either a group or one-to-one peer support. 
 
Before starting your peer support sessions, you will receive an evaluation form to complete. This helps us ensure we are meeting our funding requirements and delivering the best service possible. Your answers are confidential and will never be shared in a way that could identify you.

Question 4

Is Peer Support free?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our Peer support is fully funded thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund.

Question 5

I am not Autistic but I would like help supporting my Autistic child

Accepted Answer

As a charity APUK understands the unique challenges raising Autistic children can bring but our services are exclusively for parents who identify as Autistic, regardless of their child's neurotype.

Question 6

Do you provide crisis support?

Accepted Answer

While we are here to support you through Autistic Parenting, we are unable to provide 24/7 crisis care. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or feel at risk, please reach out to professional emergency services immediately by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
You can also call Samaritans on 116 123.

Question 7

Can you provide advocacy for court proceedings?

Accepted Answer

We understand the immense challenges and emotional weight parents face during court proceedings, particularly concerning the care of their children.
We are unable to offer legal advice, legal representation, or advocacy for individual cases. Our team members are not legally trained, and we cannot intervene in active court matters.
Our peer support services are designed for listening and emotional connection. We provide a safe space to share experiences and find community support. If you require legal guidance, we strongly recommend contacting a qualified solicitor or organizations such as Citizens Advice.

Small Group Peer Support

Our Current Groups

Frequently asked questions