New research by Ambitious about Autism has revealed that parents of autistic children are being driven into financial hardship and forced to leave their jobs due to inadequate educational support. The study, which surveyed over 1,300 autistic individuals and parents, examined the impact of missed education - whether through exclusion, suspension, or reduced timetables. It found that one in ten parents had lost their jobs as a result, while more than half had to take extended time off work to care for their children.

The findings highlight the widespread disruption caused by lost learning, with 90% of parents reporting a negative effect on their personal and professional lives. Additionally, nearly half said that the challenges extended beyond their autistic child, also impacting siblings. Among autistic young people, 71% had experienced disruptions in their education, with 60% stating it had harmed both their academic progress and mental health. The vast majority of respondents believed that better autism training for teachers would significantly improve support in schools.

Jolanta Lasota, Chief Executive of Ambitious about Autism, warned that parents are facing severe financial and emotional distress, with some relying on foodbanks or struggling to pay their bills. Many have had to cut their working hours or give up their careers entirely. She described the issue of lost learning among autistic children in mainstream education as a “hidden crisis” and called for urgent improvements to ensure autistic pupils receive meaningful support.

Lasota stressed the need for systemic change, urging schools to be better equipped to support autistic students beyond simply including them in the classroom. She emphasised that with the right training and understanding, schools could make a real difference in the lives of autistic pupils, ensuring they are actively engaged in education and able to succeed.