About the Autistica Network

The Autistica Network is the UK's only autism research community network. We know that autistic people, families and professionals who work with autistic people want to be part of research, and many researchers value their participation and insight in their studies. We set up the Autistica Network to bring these people together.

What we share with Autistica Network Members

By joining the Autistica Network, you'll be part of a community of over 13,000 people making more of a difference for autistic people and their families.

Once you've joined the network, we'll send you emails about:

• New research creating breakthroughs towards autistic people living happier, healthier and longer lives.
• Opportunities to participate in studies and share your experiences.
• Webinars and events about the latest research to help us know more about autism and build a neuroinclusive future.
• The latest campaigns that we are working on, such as our Break the Cycle inpatient mental health campaign.
• Chances to share your story to support campaigns or fundraising.

Who would benefit from joining the Autistica Network

The Autistica Network is for:

• Autistic people, family members or carers of autistic people.
• Researchers.
• Anyone who works with autistic people in health, education or social care settings.
• Anyone who wants to know more about autism.

The kind of research opportunities available

We will let you know about opportunities to take part in research run by us, and carefully selected partners, such as universities.

We carefully choose which research we share with the Autistica Network. We have six ambitious Goals we hope to reach by 2030, based on community priorities. Most of the studies we share will align with our Goals.

Most research doesn’t happen in a laboratory. It could be as simple as taking a survey or advisory group. There is a lot of research that you can do from the comfort of your home. Other research might involve you doing more, such as trialling a new therapy or mobile app.

If you want to join, but don't want to take part in research

You can join the Autistica Network even if you don't want to take part in research. We understand not everyone has the time or interest to participate in studies. We'll also send you campaign updates, opportunities to share your story and the latest news in autism research.

If you want to take part in a study

If we email you about a study and you'd like to get involved, you can respond to the research team directly. We'll include their contact details in the email. They will give you further information about their work, and you can decide whether to go ahead. You can always leave a study if you change your mind.

Data protection and confidentiality

Your personal details will be stored confidentially and securely. We only ask for basic information when you join, as well as some optional questions to help us learn more about you. We ask for your postcode as well as contact details so that we can send research opportunities that are local to you. For more information, read the Autistica privacy policy.

If you decide to take part in a study, the researcher will ask you for more information. We check that researchers have followed a detailed ethics process to ensure your data is secure.

Ethical research that is appropriate for you

All research shared with Autistica Network members is approved by our expert neurodiverse team. We would only share research that is neurodiversity-affirming, and prioritise studies aligned with our 2030 Goals.

You will always be fully informed about a research project before you decide to take part, which can give you a chance to decide if the study is the right fit for you.