**Create Safe Spaces for Adults with autism and disabilities in Hospitals**

I'm writing this petition because I've personally witnessed the struggles that autistic and disabled adults face when they go to a hospital. Unlike the children’s departments, which often have dedicated safe spaces, adult departments in Accident and Emergency  do not provide an environment conducive to the unique needs of adults with special needs. The crowded and chaotic atmosphere of an A&E can lead to an overwhelming sensory overload, worsening their anxiety and stress during what is already a traumatic time.

These individuals deserve access to specialized, sensory-friendly areas within hospitals where they can feel secure and their needs can be adequately met. By creating dedicated spaces for adults with special needs, hospitals can significantly improve the experience and care for these patients. This not only ensures their physical safety but also supports their mental and emotional well-being, which is crucial during medical emergencies.

Furthermore, I am advocating for the mandatory implementation of hospital passports for all adults with special needs. A hospital passport is a document that outlines a patient’s specific requirements, preferences, and the best ways for medical professionals to communicate with them, thus ensuring they receive tailored support and care. In practice, these passports have transformed the healthcare experience for children with special needs. Extending this to adults is a matter of urgency and equity.

Statistics from the National Autistic Society highlight that over 70% of autistic adults experience mental health problems at some point in their lives. They also show that having predictable, structured, and supportive hospital experiences can significantly reduce anxiety and improve outcomes. Yet, many hospitals lack the specialized spaces that cater to the more than 700,000 autistic individuals in the UK alone.

Providing these accommodations is possible with proper resource allocation and prioritization. Hospitals should re-evaluate their infrastructure and make necessary adjustments that could include:
- Allocating quiet zones specifically designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities in A&E departments.
- Training hospital staff in autism and disability awareness to improve communication and care.
- Ensuring the availability of hospital passports upon admission to expedite the sharing of critical patient information.

Please join me in calling on the NHS and healthcare authorities to implement these vital changes across all hospitals in the UK. By signing this petition, you are helping to pave the way for a healthcare system that is inclusive, understanding, and fully equipped to handle the diverse needs of all its patients. Let's work together to make hospitals a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone. Sign this petition today and advocate for the rights and dignity of adults with special needs in our healthcare system.

Autistic people experience significantly poorer physical and mental health outcomes compared to the general population, including an increased risk of chronic conditions, systemic barriers to medical care, and a reduced life expectancy.

We need change.