Founded in 1962 by a group of parents seeking better opportunities and education for their autistic children, the National Autistic Society has grown into the UK’s leading charity for autistic people.
Its mission is simple, but profoundly important: to transform lives, change attitudes and help create a society that works for autistic people.
The organisation provides advice, guidance and support to autistic people and their families, alongside specialist services, education, professional training and local community support. It also works with organisations and professionals to build greater understanding and more inclusive practices.
But its work goes beyond providing services. The National Autistic Society has a long history of campaigning for change, from influencing legislation and government policy to advocating for better education, healthcare, employment and support for autistic people.
Its vision is ultimately about something much bigger than awareness: a society where autistic people are valued, supported, included and able to participate fully.
This is particularly important as our understanding of neurodiversity continues to evolve. Creating genuinely inclusive communities means moving beyond simply recognising differences and asking a more important question:
How can we build a world that enables different kinds of minds to thrive?
At 30 for 30, we are proud to begin our journey by celebrating an organisation that has spent more than six decades working towards exactly that.
Today, we celebrate the National Autistic Society, and everyone working to create a society that works for autistic people.
Find out more about National Autistic Society at www.autism.org.uk