Real-life stories

Having an autistic member of the family affects everyone: parents, grandparents, siblings, children and extended family members. The pressure can be enormous in the struggle to navigate life in this new way.

The below stories are about the journeys of individuals - adults as well as children - following an autism diagnosis. By sharing these unique and personal experiences we hope to inform and inspire others.

Rover's story

By his father, RobertRead more

Luke's story

By his father, AndrewRead more

My Son

By his mother, LedaRead more

David's story

Told by himself, diagnosed as an adultRead more

William's story

By his mother, LisaRead more

Latest

Book Launch for ACE

Broadcaster and journalist, Anne Atkins, launches her novel 'An Elegant Solution', the protagonist of which is autistic, and is kindly donating a percentage of proceeds to ACE.

The Autism Research Trust

We fund research to understand the causes of autism, improve diagnosis and explore interventions to ensure that autistic people receive the best possible support.

Genetic research and autism: for better understanding and support

There are fears that the aim of genetics research into autism is a form of eugenics to “normalise” autistic people. Although Simon Baron-Cohen understands where this fear stems from, both him and his research teams are firmly against any sort of genetic engineering.

Genome-wide association meta-anaylsis of autistic traits

1000 genes and many genetic variants may cause autism, yet so far less than 100 genes and 5 common genetic variants have been linked to autism. By conducting a genome-wide association meta-anaylsis of autistic traits in the general population we hope to accelerate this genetic variant discovery to further our understanding of autism, and help improve diagnosis

Are autistic people being misdiagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder?

A new study has shown that there is an overlap in the behaviour traits of people diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and Autism. Could this mean people are receiving the wrong diagnosis?

Rover's story

By his father, Robert

The Autism Research Trust

We fund research to understand the causes of autism, improve diagnosis and explore interventions to ensure that autistic people receive the best possible support.

Meet the team

What is the ACE?

The first of its kind here in the UK, the Autism Centre of Excellence (ACE) will be a unique and very special collaboration between autistic people and their families, the work of world-class researchers and excellent clinical services.

The Autism Research Centre

At the cutting edge of autism research, the Centre is based in Cambridge and led by Professor Simon Baron-Cohen.

What is autism?

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability, that can affects people's ability to communicate and build relationships.

Recruiting volunteers for a speech course study for parents

We are recruiting volunteers for a study to support parents in improving their autistic children's speech. Would you take part?

Investigating the role of NRXN1 in autism

This project looks to fill the gaps in our knowledge about the role of the Neurexin 1 gene in autism using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology.

8 research projects funded in 2018

Since the beginning of the year we were able to fund eight pioneering research projects, which will help us to better understand autism and inspire solutions to support autistic people and their families.