Qualified health professionals from the Specialist Autism team can answer queries from autistic people, their families, carers and allies via text conversation.

It’s a safe and easy way to get confidential help and advice on autism related issues.

Here are some of the topics that people ask for advice about:

• Emotional wellbeing
• Healthy lifestyle
• Healthy relationships
• Understanding autism
• Signposting to advice and support
• Assessment and diagnosis

The service is available 9am-5pm every week day. You will receive a response within 24 hours, Monday-Friday.  We are not open on bank holidays but we do stay open during school holidays.

This service is totally confidential.  Your information will only be shared if the health professional is worried about you or someone else’s safety or if you share information which may be concerning or put you or someone else at risk or danger.

Text 07312 277097 or start a chat here

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Please note: ChatAutism is not a crisis or emergency service. 

If you have urgent mental health concerns, you can call NHS 111 and press option 2. 

You will be put through to a qualified call handler, who will be able to give you the advice and support you need.

This service is totally free and confidential and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week

It is for all ages – so you can call this number if you are a parent or carer and need urgent mental health advice and support for a child or young person.

Alternatively, you can visit https://111.nhs.uk/ and follow the on screen instructions.  This service is also staffed by the same qualified call handlers. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free and confidential.

Please note however that this NHS 111 line is not an emergency service. Where there is an immediate, serious and life-threatening emergency, you must call 999 or attend A and E.