It's Time to Show Up
In 2027, the National Autistic Society has an unprecedented opportunity to make a real difference to public understanding of autism. And we’re asking you, our supporters, to be part of it.
The National Autistic Society will be the 2027 TCS London Marathon’s Charity of the Year. This is a huge opportunity for all of us to celebrate autism acceptance - not just for the 100,000 runners on the event weekend, but also to the 100,000s cheering them on and the millions more watching the world’s biggest fundraising event on TV and online.
From our recent survey, we know over 99% of the public are aware of autism. But less than 1 in 10 know how to show up for autistic friends, colleagues, family members or anyone else.
We won’t miss this chance to close the gap between awareness of autism, and genuine understanding.
It’s time to show up.
We need you to join us. Help us push back against a rising tide of hostility and misinformation around autism.
If you believe it’s time to show up, add your name below. You’ll receive campaign updates, learn how you can take action, and hear how organisations and events like the TCS London Marathon are making a difference for autistic people.
Why is it time to show up?
Because, despite increasing awareness of autism, autistic people and their families still face barriers in every aspect of their lives.
- In June 2026, more than 294,000 people were waiting for an autism assessment
- In June 2026, over 2,000 autistic people and people with a learning disability remained in mental health hospitals, often far from home.
- The employment rate for autistic people stands at just 29%
- 83% of autistic people reported experiencing depression and 66% of autistic adults experience suicidal ideation
- Two thirds of teachers and education professionals (65%) worry about keeping SEND children safe because of a lack of capacity
At the same time, misinformation and harmful narratives about autism are growing, while disability rights are being rolled back. Autistic people and their families are facing an increasingly hostile society.
What can I do?
We’re creating a moment of allyship, to push back against a rising tide of hostility around autism.
By learning about autism, sharing truths, giving space to autistic stories and experiences, you can help be part of a more neuroinclusive society. In the coming months, we’ll be highlighting how you can show up, and how others are already showing up.
For example:
- Allowing more processing time and advocating for autistic colleagues in the workplace
- Considering neurodivergent friendly recruitment practices
- Offering space: creating space at schools, businesses or wherever you can for people to safely self-regulate
- Being kind if you notice someone struggling when out and about
And as for for the 2027 TCS London Marathon itself, you could…
- Register to volunteer at London Marathon and supporting our incredible #TeamAutism (more details coming soon)
- Keep up-to-date with our exciting plans as we work with the TCS London Marathon team to make 2027 to most inclusive marathon, ever.
- If you already have a ballot place – use it to join #TeamAutism and fundraise for our new Autism Help hub and app
How are others showing up
Nathan Sykes, from The Wanted, shares his experiences of how people have shown up for him, and the difference it’s made to his life.
We’d like to say a resounding Thank You to the TCS London Marathon for choosing us as its 2027 Charity of the Year, celebrating accessibility, inclusivity and neurodiversity for the historic Double event.