Research Requests

We are getting an increasing number of requests to share research participant questionnaires and invitations on our social media platforms. Autistic UK is committed to ensuring social research which benefits Autistic people is conducted, however, many of the requests received do not fall into our permitted parameters. Therefore, research requests must now be submitted formally via our webform. Any requests sent via email and/or social media will be redirected to the form. Before submitting your request, please ensure it meets our criteria below. Any requests which do not meet the criteria will not be shared.

Researchers

Autistic UK believe that Autistic people should be at the forefront of research for the Autistic community. Therefore, we prioritise Autistic researchers, and projects which have meaningful Autistic collaboration.

Language

Autistic UK will only share research projects which use identity first language (Autistic person) rather than person first language (person with autism). This language must be used throughout and not just on promotional material.

Functioning labels, including the use of Asperger’s, are not acceptable.

We will not share projects which use the terms ‘autism spectrum disorder’, or ‘ASD’.

Type of Research

Autistic UK believe that social research which is of benefit to the Autistic community should be prioritised. Therefore, medical based research – particularly anything which has the potential to cause harm to the community such as ‘cure’ or eugenics based projects – will not be accepted.

This also means it must be clear from the request what the project is for. Without clear objectives/projected outcomes, projects will not be accepted.

Please note that all studies will be checked before they are shared even if it’s indicated that they meet the above criteria. Please ensure any survey links are included in your request.