Autism Attention Card

Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) have collaborated with the Cheshire Autism Practical Support (ChAPS) and Autism Together charities to launch the Autism Attention Card.

This initiative helps people with Autism Spectrum Condition to receive appropriate support in an emergency situation and provides training for staff to engage more effectively with people with hidden vulnerabilities.

“People on the autism spectrum cannot always understand complex or abstract questions, and can appear to have disregard for authority by not being able to give clear adequate explanation for their behaviour, or even understand the situation they find themselves in. This card is vital in helping both the cardholder and police to ensure situations do not become difficult."

Jo Garner, founder and managing director of ChAPS said: "We are delighted that this initiative is being rolled out to other police forces, especially Merseyside Police and MFRS as our geographical neighbours.

“It means for those people who carry the card, they can be assured they will be understood by the police and receive the appropriate support.

To apply for the card visit https://www.cheshireautism.org.uk/news/attention-card/

For more information about the charity and how it can help your family (with or without diagnosis) please visit www.cheshireautism.org.uk.