April is Autism Awareness Month: a time to recognise the experiences of autistic people, raise awareness, and reflect on the support available to them. At Slater Heelis, we’re proud to play our part, both within our firm and through the specialist legal services we offer to autistic clients and their families.
What is Autism Awareness Month?
Autism Awareness Month takes place every April and is recognised worldwide. Its aim is straightforward: to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and encourage a more informed and balanced understanding of autism, not just the challenges it can present, but the strengths it brings too.
In the UK, it’s estimated that around one in 100 people are autistic, over 700,000 people. That means the chances are high that someone in your workplace, your family, or your community is autistic, and that the legal system, like every other part of life, should be set up to serve them well.
Our Neurodiversity Champions
We know that understanding starts from within. That’s why several members of the Slater Heelis team have completed specialist training with The National Autistic Society to become Neurodiversity Champions.
Our Neurodiversity Champions have gained practical knowledge and skills to better understand autistic individuals, to spot where support might be needed, and to make sure that our clients feel genuinely welcomed and understood.
We’re also listed on the National Autistic Society’s autism services directory, which reflects our ongoing commitment to this area of work.
By improving awareness across different parts of the business, we aim to make every interaction with Slater Heelis as straightforward and as comfortable as possible: for autistic individuals, for those with ADHD, and for their families too.
The legal support we offer to neurodivergent clients
Good legal advice should be accessible to everyone. For neurodivergent clients, that means clear communication, patience, and a team that takes the time to understand your individual circumstances. Here’s an overview of the services we provide.
Wills and estate planning
Planning ahead is important for any family, but for those with a neurodivergent family member, it can feel particularly pressing. Our team can help you put in place wills, trusts, and long-term financial plans that ensure continuity of care and protect the financial security of a neurodivergent individual.
This includes setting up discretionary or vulnerable persons’ trusts: a practical way of safeguarding family assets while making sure the individual remains eligible to claim the state benefits they’re entitled to.
Lasting powers of attorney
A lasting power of attorney (LPA) allows a trusted person to make decisions about finances, health, or welfare on behalf of someone who needs support with those decisions.
For neurodivergent individuals and their families, putting an LPA in place at the right time can make a significant difference. We explain the process clearly, set out the options in plain terms, and make sure both the individual and their caregivers feel confident about what’s being put in place and why.
Court of Protection and deputyship
Where an individual lacks the capacity to manage their own financial affairs, the Court of Protection can appoint a deputy to make decisions in their best interests.
We can support family members or caregivers through the deputyship application process, and provide ongoing guidance to financial deputies once they’re in post. Where needed, the Slater Heelis Trust Corporation can also act as a professional financial attorney or deputy.
Employment law and workplace discrimination
Neurodivergent employees have the same rights as everyone else in the workplace, and in some cases, additional legal protections. Under the Equality Act 2010, conditions such as autism and ADHD may be classed as disabilities, which means employers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments.
Our employment law team can advise neurodivergent individuals who have experienced discrimination at work, been refused reasonable adjustments, or who are considering bringing a claim at an employment tribunal. We’ll give you a straight, honest assessment of your situation and explain your options clearly.
Family law and parenting support
Family breakdown is difficult for any family. Where neurodivergent children are involved, it brings an additional layer of complexity. Child arrangements, educational provision, healthcare needs, routines, and support networks all need to be considered carefully.
Our family law team works with parents to secure arrangements that put the child’s wellbeing first. We can also advise on parental responsibility, guardianship, child maintenance, and financial settlements, taking a thoughtful, measured approach that keeps the focus on what matters most.
Criminal defence for adults and minors
Autistic individuals can face particular difficulties within the criminal justice system. Misunderstandings, differences in communication, and a lack of awareness from others can sometimes result in unwarranted accusations or charges.
Our criminal defence solicitors have experience supporting autistic adults and young people who have been accused of committing a crime. We communicate clearly, explain each step of the process at a pace that works for you, and make sure your rights are fully protected throughout.
Talk to us
Legal matters can feel daunting at the best of times. If you or someone you care for is neurodivergent, and you’d like to understand what support is available, we’re here to help.
Get in touch with the team at Slater Heelis by calling 0330 111 3131 or by completing our online enquiry form. You can also find more information about our specialist services for neurodivergent individuals on our dedicated legal services page.