Hosted by Alcohol Change UK, the Centre for Applied Autism Research at the University of Bath, and the Royal College of Psychiatrists

Autistic people are as likely to experience substance use issues as anyone else. But when they do, they find it much harder to get the support they need. 

Research by the Centre for Applied Autism Research found that almost half of autistic drinkers would not seek support for an alcohol problem and that alcohol support workers expected poorer treatment outcomes for autistic clients. There are indications of similar barriers to support for autistic people who use cannabis. 

This half-day online event offers an opportunity to lift the lid on these overlooked and under-researched topics, and to make connections with others working to understand them. We are seeking to build a network to ensure that:

• Substance misuse services are better able to meet the needs of people with autism.

• Autism services are more aware of substance use issues.

• Both sets of services are working together better.