Overview
Autistic people are at higher risk of being victims of crime — bullying, mate crime, financial exploitation, hate crime, abuse. Reporting is your right and support is available.
Key points to understand
- Hate crime can be reported via police, True Vision (gov.uk) or third-party reporting centres.
- Victim Support (08 08 16 89 111, free) provides emotional and practical help.
- Special measures in court (screens, video link, intermediaries) are available.
- Mate crime — when someone fakes friendship to exploit — is widely under-reported.
Practical strategies that help
- Report to the police or via True Vision.
- Contact Victim Support for free, confidential help.
- Ask for an intermediary if giving evidence.
- Keep written records of incidents.
Common challenges to be aware of
- Police may need education on autism — a hospital-style passport or NAS leaflet helps.
- Trauma-informed therapy can help after crime.
How Bright Steps can help
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References & further reading
✏️ This article will be expanded with rich, UK-specific content, case studies, video explainers and downloadable resources. If you'd like to contribute a story or suggest a correction, contact the Bright Steps editors via the Community page.