Care and benefits for adults with an ASD

Many adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) need support to live independently. Read more about the type of support that's available, having an assessment, and how to complain if you don't get the services you need.

Direct payments were introduced to provide more flexibility for those who have been assessed as being in need of services. Adults and young people with autism can apply for direct payments.

Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) is paid to people who are incapable of working because of illness and disability. It replaced Incapacity Benefit and Income Support paid on the basis of incapacity.

People with autism vary greatly in their housing needs. Some live independently but others may require 24-hour specialist support. This section outlines the main housing options available in the UK.

Incapacity Benefit has been abolished and replaced by Contributory Employment and Support Allowance. Incapacity Benefit was a benefit paid to people who either stop work or stop looking for work due to illness or disability.

Income support is a means-tested benefit payable to certain people on a low income.

The Government is reassessing everyone who claims Incapacity Benefit, Severe Disablement Allowance or Income Support on the basis of sickness or disability. Some people, eg carers or lone parents, qualify for Income Support for other reasons, and they will not be affected by these changes.

Self-directed support is a system of social care that lets people take control of their own lives and support.