Communication

Autistic people process information and communicate in a range of ways.

Some Autistic people are non-speaking or experience situational mutism, meaning that they do not speak or cannot speak in particular circumstances. Some Autistic people use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (‘AAC’) with a device or other technology or unaided (e.g., gestures and manual sign). Some Autistic people may use different communication strategies (e.g., speech or communication technology) as their support needs change depending on their energy, stress or life circumstances. Some people require additional support to communicate and participate.

Supported decision making enables Autistic people with very high support and dependency needs to be involved with and make decisions about their own life through making choices. Some people make choices differently than others. Some people get help from constant supports such as parents or unpaid carers. These supports can learn to translate their preferences and needs through the intimacy of their understanding or minor cues. Some people show other people what they have chosen through gestures or actions rather than words.

Autistic people should have choice and control over the communication modalities that they use to suit their preferences and needs. This includes, but is not limited to, Assistive Technologies, interpreters & translators, spellers, visual aids, or alternative communication techniques.