ASC is the name for a neurological condition which is characterised by difficulties in social communication and interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviour, activities or interests.  The condition can affect people in a wide range of ways. 

It’s estimated that more than 1 in 100 people are on the autism spectrum and there are around 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK.

Autistic people often have strengths such as memorising and learning information quickly, being detail-orientated, visual or spatial processing, and processing and retaining lots of information.  Autistic people may be diagnosed in childhood but not all are. 

Until recently, autistic people without intellectual disabilities were often diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.   

This is now understood to be simply one presentation of ASC, so Asperger’s Syndrome is no longer given as a medical diagnosis.  However, many autistic people still use the terms “Asperger’s” and “Aspie” to describe themselves and their preferences should be respected.

For more information on these conditions please see our guidance on neurodiversity in the workplace

Here’s some advice and guidance from the National Autistic Society