Even though autistic communities have been discussing masking for decades, it is only recently that the concept has become the subject of academic research .. and it is yet to reach the mainstream.

This is a big problem, because unless schools and doctors are familiar with masking, it can stand in the way of a child getting proper support.

It is time for professionals to listen to autistic people and understand what it means to be autistic from the inside out, Kieran Rose says in this video.

Until then, we have narratives like social skills which actually just condition us to mask more.

Find out more from our Behind the Mask campaign

Do you need more help and advice? 

Our family development service provides support for autistic people and their families pre, during and post diagnosis. The team is committed to providing the right support, at the right time and in the right way to ensure the best outcomes.

The team can offer different levels of support including:

• Being a listening ear for families seeking information, advice and guidance
• Refer you to appropriate services (if applicable)
• Attend 'team around the family' meetings and compile reports (for families we are supporting)
• Conduct home visits (for families living in Newcastle, North Tyneside and South Tyneside)

The team also offer a wide range of free services for families including:

• Toddler Groups
• Family Workshops
• Virtual workshops
• Support Hubs
• Family Resources
• Family Networking

Visit our Family Resources website