By Talking Health TV –

National Autistic Society Launches ‘It’s How You Show Up’ Campaign to Improve Autism Understanding

A new survey from the National Autistic Society has revealed that more than two-thirds (63%) of people in the north of England want to learn how to help autistic people feel more accepted.

The findings highlight the urgent need for greater public understanding, as many autistic individuals face social isolation and negative reactions when disclosing their diagnosis.

Negative Experiences and Social Isolation

The research found that autistic people regularly experience challenges in their daily lives due to public attitudes:

• More than half (55%) of autistic people avoid going out because they are worried about how others will treat them.
• A quarter (25%) said they usually receive a negative reaction when they disclose their autism diagnosis.
• Nine in 10 (90%) have experienced poor mental health due to societal attitudes and perceptions of autism.
• 84% have experienced social isolation.

These statistics show the significant impact that misunderstandings about autism have on the lives of autistic people across the UK.

A Call to Action: ‘It’s How You Show Up’

To address these issues, the National Autistic Society launched its ‘It’s How You Show Up’ campaign on Wednesday, 2 April 2025, coinciding with World Autism Day and World Autism Acceptance Month.

The campaign aims to highlight simple ways the public can make a positive difference by changing their behaviour and perceptions.

Chris Wakeman in ‘It’s How You Show Up’ Short Film [Image Credit: National Autistic Society]

Public Awareness and Perceptions

The YouGov survey also found that the general public recognises the difficulties autistic people face:

• Nearly half (46%) of UK adults believe autistic people receive negative reactions when they disclose their autism.
• Almost two-thirds (63%) think autistic people struggle with friendships or face lost relationships.
• Nearly three in five (57%) believe autistic people have fewer job opportunities due to misconceptions.

Changes Autistic People Want to See

The survey identified three key changes that autistic people wish the public would make:

1. Make small adjustments in environments such as workplaces and public spaces (78%).
2. Educate themselves about autism (69%).
3. Be more open-minded about how people behave (68%).

Peter Watt, Managing Director of National Programmes at the National Autistic Society, said: “Although autism understanding has improved massively in recent years, autistic people and their families still face negative perceptions that make it harder to get the support they need in everyday life.

“This can impact their ability to access adjustments at school and work, or even stop them from going out at all.

“Our campaign, ‘It’s How You Show Up,’ will improve public understanding and change attitudes towards autistic people.

“There are many simple, everyday ways people can make a huge difference, whether by learning about autism, allowing autistic individuals more time to process information, or supporting autistic colleagues.

“We encourage everyone to get involved this World Autism Acceptance Month and beyond.”

A Personal Insight into Autism

As part of the campaign, the National Autistic Society has created a powerful short film featuring Chris Wakeman and his nine-year-old daughter, Penny, both of whom are autistic.

The film draws from their real-life experiences and explores Chris’s emotional hopes for a more autism-friendly future.

‘It’s How You Show Up’ – Film by the National Autistic Society [Credit: National Autistic Society]

Chris shared his perspective: “Autism doesn’t always look how you may think it looks. Autistic people are capable, intelligent, sensitive, and able—don’t judge us.

“People have shown up for me at work by understanding my needs and being empathetic.

“We wanted to be part of this campaign because, as a late-diagnosed autistic man, I know how hard it has been to get to this point.

“Raising awareness, particularly about autism in girls, is essential so that more people can understand and respond with empathy.”

National Backing

National Autistic Society’s Celebrity Ambassador Chris Packham is also supporting the campaign, urging the public to take small steps to create a more inclusive society:

“People showed up for me, and it not only improved my life—it made my life possible. Sometimes, it’s the smallest, simplest actions that make the biggest difference. Please show up for autistic people this spring!”

Get Involved

The National Autistic Society is encouraging the public to pledge their support and commit to making a positive impact during World Autism Acceptance Month and beyond.

Find out more and make your pledge at: www.autism.org.uk/showup