The Hackney Autism Alliance's user engagement & consultation work group led the design of a communications card. It was co-designed and its text agreed by autistic Hackney residents, their families and carers. The design and first print was completed in 2017.
The card-carrying autistic can decide when and where to show their card. They have full control of this disclosure.
The front can be used in all situations where verbal communications is difficult or impossible.
Note: in hindsight the fifth bullet point should be changed to either 'I may be non-speaking or uncommunicative’ or 'I may be minimally speaking or uncommunicative’ as many non-speaking folks have perfect understanding of language and can write using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. Hopefully this will be changed in the next reprint of the card.The back is useful in emergency situations.
The card is endorsed by Hackney Council, NHS Hackney and Metropolitan Police Service Hackney, however no police logo appear on the card to avoid any possible stigma.
If you are an autistic Hackney resident, you can request a communication card, for free, by filling in this short form created by Hackney Council.