Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorder
What is Autism?
Understanding Autism
Autism is also called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Autism is not an illness or a disease. It means your brain works in a different way to other people.
- Autism can change how you talk to people, how you understand others, and how you act.
- Some people find out they are autistic when they are children. Other people find out when they are adults.
- Autism is different for everyone. Every autistic person is unique.
Common characteristics (things autistic people might do)
Communication and talking to people
Autistic people may find it hard to communicate. For example:
- Making eye contact (looking into someone’s eyes).
- Understanding facial expressions (like knowing if someone is happy or sad by looking at their face).
- Understanding body language.
- Starting or keeping a conversation going.
Routines and repeating things
Autistic people might also:
- Like to do things in the same order every day.
- Find it very hard when routines change.
- Do the same movements or words again and again (repetitive behaviour).
- Have strong interests in specific topics.
Sensory feelings
Autistic people can be very sensitive to things around them (sensory issues).
- Sounds might feel too loud or painful.
- Lights might feel too bright.
- Certain textures or clothes might feel uncomfortable.
Difference, Not Disability
Many people believe that autism is a difference, not a disability or a fault.
- Autistic people have their own special strengths and talents.
- Many problems autistic people face come from other people not understanding them.
- When people understand autism, they can make places easier and safer for autistic people.
Seeing autism as a difference helps everyone celebrate each person’s unique strengths!
Swansea Council produced this video to support parents and carers of children and young people who are awaiting an assessment for an Autistic Spectrum Disorder, or if they have a diagnosis.
Some useful resources
Integrated Autism Service
- What they do: They support autistic adults, their families, carers, and workers. They also help parents and carers of autistic children.
- How to get help: Anyone can contact them directly (self-referral).
If you have any questions about the service or wish to request a referral form, please contact:
Integrated Autism Service, Tonna Hospital, Tonna, Neath, SA11 3LX.
Email: SBU.WGIAS@wales.nhs.uk.
Telephone: 01639 862 936. An answerphone service is available.
ASDES Swansea
- What they do: ASDES stands for Autistic Skills Development and Employment Support.
- How they help: Help to find a job, go to college/university, or do voluntary work. They also support people who already have a job.
- Facebook: Search for ASDES Swansea on Facebook.
Autism Wales
- What they do: A website built to help Wales become an autism-friendly country.
- Resources: Free information guides and tools to download and keep.
National Autistic Society (NAS) – Swansea Branch
- What they do: They offer advice, information, and support for autistic people, children, and their families.
- Topics they can help with: Understanding autism, getting a diagnosis, communication, mental health, and education.
- Activities and support:
- Support groups for parents, carers, and children
- Play sessions for children and fun activities outdoors
- Training days
- Online community and directory of local services
- Email: NAS.SwanseaBranch@nas.org.uk
Dyversity Project by local aid
- What they do: Weekly drop-in sessions for young autistic people or those waiting for a diagnosis.
- Where: FOYD (Friends of the Young Disabled), 300 Carmarthen Road, Swansea, SA5 8NJ.
- When: Every Monday from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.
- Phone: Amanda on 07846 204 358
- Email: katie@localaid.co.uk
or or Project Leader katie@localaid.co.uk
Molehill Mountain App
Molehill Mountain App: A phone app made by the charity Autistica to help you manage worry and anxiety.
Understood by Us
- What it is: A place to learn from people who have ADHD, dyslexia, learning disabilities, or autism.
- What they share: Tips and advice on how to do well at school, work, and in daily life.
Thisissand app
A relaxing sensory app where you can make sand art on your screen. (Available on Apple and Android).
Support for children, young people and their carers
What it is: Extra support for children with additional needs or disabilities, as well as their parents, carers, and brothers or sisters (siblings).
Where to find more: Visit the tidyMinds website for local advice.