Our Autism Informed Police Advocacy Card is a simple support tool designed to help autistic people, families and carers communicate important needs when speaking with police. It can help Officers understand communication differences, sensory distress, anxiety, processing time and the need for reasonable adjustments, including consideration of appropriate support in line with PACE safeguards. No one wants to think they may need it, but it is a vital tool to keep in your purse or wallet. Compact and easy to carry, the card supports clearer communication, calmer interactions and fairer, more autism-informed responses during police contact.
From adults with autism:
"I never thought I would need something like this, but when I became overwhelmed, the card helped explain my autism without me having to find the words."
Jim
"My Mum wasn't around, I was so scared. The card was tucked behind my lanyard communications card. It really helped the officers understand that I needed more time to process questions. It made the situation feel calmer and less frightening. I was anxious so I could not explain myself properly. Showing the card meant people understood I was autistic and needed support, not pressure."
Jennifer
From carers and families:
"As a carer, this card gave me reassurance that if police were ever involved, there was a clear way to explain communication needs and ask for the right support."
Gill
"It helped stop assumptions being made. The card explained that behaviour may be linked to distress, sensory overload or processing difficulties, not non-compliance."
Will
Legal disclaimer: This Autism Police Advocacy Card is designed to support communication, understanding and advocacy only. It is not legal advice, does not replace professional legal representation, and should not be relied on as guidance about rights, police powers, PACE procedures or criminal investigations. If you are involved in police contact, arrest, custody or questioning, you should ask for free and independent legal advice from a qualified solicitor and seek appropriate support where needed.