Firstly, thank you to everyone who has signed and supported this petition so far.

Many people don't realise that autistic people are not currently recognised as a minority group under UK law. 

We're protected under the Equality Act 2010 as having a disability — which means we have rights to reasonable adjustments and protection from individual discrimination.

But that’s where the protection ends.

Autism isn't just a medical condition. 

For many of us, it's a core part of our identity — shaping how we communicate, how we experience the world, and how we engage socially. Autistic people often share a distinct culture, values, and community.

In this sense, we are a neurological minority.

Yet we are not recognised in law or public policy in the way other marginalised groups are.

For example:

• Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities are recognised as ethnic minorities, with protection under the characteristic of race.

• LGBTQ+ people are protected under “sexual orientation” and “gender reassignment,” and benefit from targeted inclusion efforts and community funding.

.Autistic people, on the other hand, continue to face:

🔹️ Widespread stigma and misunderstanding

🔹️ Systemic barriers in healthcare, education, and employment

🔹️ Poor mental health outcomes, higher suicide rates, and social isolation

🔹️ Lack of public policy that includes our voices and needs

This campaign is not asking for special treatment — it’s asking for fair recognition.

We are calling on policymakers to:

🔸️ Explore a legal and social framework that recognises neurodivergent people as a marginalised minority group

🔸️ Recognise the cultural, communicative, and sensory needs of autistic people as more than just medical issues

🔸️ Ensure autistic-led organisations are consulted on policies that affect us

🔸️ Promote equity, not just accessibility

It's time autistic people were recognised not just as individuals with impairments, but as a community with rights, value, and a voice.

Please continue to share and support this cause.

Your help is making a huge difference.

 

Thank you all 🩷