Autism affects all forms of social communication, regardless of verbal ability. Increased anxiety will impact on the ability to communicate effectively. This might mean that your method of communication may need to change and the individual may require more time to process information.

Eye contact can be painful and confusing for individuals with autism, don’t assume that they are ignoring you if they are not looking at you.

Unfamiliar environments and unfamiliar people can significantly impact on the level of anxiety that the individual experiences.

The environment is a very important factor and this can increase anxiety. For example lights, noises, other people, smells, will impact on the individual as people with autism find it difficult to filter out background information.

People with autism can find the following difficult: planning, organising, multitasking, sequencing, retaining information, communicating details in an ordered and sequential manner and initiating tasks.

Newcastle Airport understand that for those with Autism going on holiday can be a stressful experience. They have teamed up with the North East Austism Society to offer extra support.

You can download an Autism Passport that will entitle you and your family to access the Security Fast Track Facility as well as the dedicated PRM Assisance quiet area in the Airport.

They will offer assistance at the gate as well as boarding the aircraft to make the journey run as smoothly as possible.

For more information and advice about autism please contact North East Autism Society on 0191 410 9974 or info@ne-as.org.uk