Fund advanced safety solutions for non-verbal autistic children
The Issue
My child is non-verbal and autistic, with no awareness of danger. As a parent, I constantly fear for his safety because he is at high risk of wandering. Many current GPS tracking solutions fall short because he cannot tolerate wearing such devices and often removes his clothing. This leaves us without reliable options to ensure his safety in public settings. Our story is not unique. Thousands of families face the same daily challenges and fears.
Wandering, or elopement, is a behavioural pattern that affects around 50% of autistic children, particularly those who are non-verbal. These children may unknowingly run into roads, bodies of water, or unfamiliar surroundings. The statistics are alarming, with wandering often leading to serious injury or even fatality. According to a 2012 study published in Pediatrics, drowning accounted for 91% of the total U.S. deaths reported in children with autism aged 14 and younger. This terrifying trend is preventable with the right tools and support.
Currently, the safety solutions available are largely ineffective for children with complex needs. GPS devices, while innovative, are not always suitable for children who cannot tolerate them due to sensory sensitivities. Alternatives such as wearable clothing with tracking technology, community alert systems, and parental training could provide more pervasive and adaptable solutions.
We urge the UK Government to urgently allocate funding and resources towards the research and development of advanced safety solutions specifically designed for non-verbal autistic children. This could include grants for technological innovation, incentives for research institutions, and partnerships with tech companies committed to creating inclusive and adaptive tracking solutions. By prioritising this issue, the government can alleviate the fears of thousands of families and prevent future tragedies.
Non-verbal autistic children deserve to explore the world with dignity and security. It is our responsibility to create a safer environment for them and grant peace of mind to the families who love them. Please sign this petition to help us push for vital safety measures for our vulnerable children.
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The Issue
My child is non-verbal and autistic, with no awareness of danger. As a parent, I constantly fear for his safety because he is at high risk of wandering. Many current GPS tracking solutions fall short because he cannot tolerate wearing such devices and often removes his clothing. This leaves us without reliable options to ensure his safety in public settings. Our story is not unique. Thousands of families face the same daily challenges and fears.
Wandering, or elopement, is a behavioural pattern that affects around 50% of autistic children, particularly those who are non-verbal. These children may unknowingly run into roads, bodies of water, or unfamiliar surroundings. The statistics are alarming, with wandering often leading to serious injury or even fatality. According to a 2012 study published in Pediatrics, drowning accounted for 91% of the total U.S. deaths reported in children with autism aged 14 and younger. This terrifying trend is preventable with the right tools and support.
Currently, the safety solutions available are largely ineffective for children with complex needs. GPS devices, while innovative, are not always suitable for children who cannot tolerate them due to sensory sensitivities. Alternatives such as wearable clothing with tracking technology, community alert systems, and parental training could provide more pervasive and adaptable solutions.
We urge the UK Government to urgently allocate funding and resources towards the research and development of advanced safety solutions specifically designed for non-verbal autistic children. This could include grants for technological innovation, incentives for research institutions, and partnerships with tech companies committed to creating inclusive and adaptive tracking solutions. By prioritising this issue, the government can alleviate the fears of thousands of families and prevent future tragedies.
Non-verbal autistic children deserve to explore the world with dignity and security. It is our responsibility to create a safer environment for them and grant peace of mind to the families who love them. Please sign this petition to help us push for vital safety measures for our vulnerable children.
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Petition created on 19 September 2026