Autism alert card scheme

Autism alert card scheme

People with autism in Brent can get an autism alert card or passport as part of a scheme run by the Metropolitan Police, City of London Police and British Transport Police.

The cards alert officers to the fact that an individual may have difficulty with communication and might exhibit unusual or unpredictable behaviour. Officers will then respond appropriately by changing the way they interact with the person to make them feel more at ease.

 The cards issue the following advice to officers about how they can help a person with autism:

• Remain calm, be patient tolerant and understanding
• Address me by name each time you speak to me
• People with autism are vulnerable. They are entitled to an appropriate adult. is should be arranged immediately
• Be aware your behaviour and language can be confusing to me
• Always explain what is happening, what will happen and why
• Be aware autistic people may carry an object for security; removing it can cause extreme distress. Only remove it if essential 
• Don't touch me or use handcuffs unless essential for safety

The scheme was developed following extensive consultations with autistic individuals and their parents, the National Autistic Society, Autism Partnership Boards and other partner agencies. To obtain a card email autism@met.police.uk For more information about the scheme visit www.npaa.org.uk/launch-of-tri-force-autism-alert-card-scheme/

Autistic spectrum disorders Young people with special educational needs and disabilities