As a mother to 2 autistic adults, wife to an autistic man and chairperson of an autism charity, I am deeply angry and heartbroken that in 2026 we are still having to defend autistic people against dangerous misunderstandings and could shape public perception.
I have campaigned for autistic children and adults since 1998. I have listened to thousands of families who feel exhausted, ignored, judged, and pushed to breaking point by systems that are supposed to support them.
AUTISM IS NOT EXTREMISM.
Autistic people are not threats. They are human beings who deserve dignity, understanding, opportunities, and protection. When organisations and authorities fail to understand autism properly, the consequences can be devastating for families already struggling to cope.
Ofsted and policymakers must take responsibility and start listening to autistic people, parents, charities, and professionals with lived experience , not create fear and stigma that isolates vulnerable people even further.
As a mother of autistic sons, I know firsthand the sleepless nights, the battles for education and support, the anxiety, and the pain families carry every single day. We should not also have to fight against harmful labels and policies that make autistic people feel criminalised for simply being different.
I stand proudly with everyone attending the ‘Show Up Speak Out demonstration ‘ in Parliament Square on May 22nd.
We will not stay silent.
We will not allow autistic voices to be dismissed.
And we will continue fighting until autistic people are treated with the respect, compassion, and equality they deserve.
Enough is enough.
