About Autism

Our son had a lot of behavioural problems and was self injurious. He would bite his hand when he was anxious or bang his head. He had no way of communicating and was therefore extremely frustrated as a young boy.

Parent of a young person at Prior's Court

Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder or Condition) is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people, as well as how they experience the world around them. It is a spectrum condition: some people with autism can live relatively independently but others may need a high level of support throughout their lives. The condition can make life extremely challenging for the families of those affected.

Aim High For Autism is a short film following the journey of eight of our young people as they travel to London’s iconic Abbey Road studios to record Let Me Shine. It calls for acceptance and understanding for those on the autistic spectrum, and sees them overcoming enormous challenges to be a part of the production - the culmination of months of rehearsals and preparation. 

Watch 'Aim High for Autism':

To mark World Autism Awareness Day, which takes place on 2nd April each year, Prior's Court young people, staff and musicians recorded a song, 'Let Me Shine' to raise awareness, challenge perceptions of autism and encourage acceptance.  

Watch 'Let Me Shine':

My Special Brother - by Hannah, aged 12 years, sister to Jacob

I know him as my brother
Which seems very strange indeed
This little boy so special
Who knows nothing about me

I often wonder where he goes
In times of private thought
I hope he's happy and content
In just the way he ought

He lives his life in parallel
Across this huge divide
To be here with me but not connect
Growing older side by side

We never play or share or shout
This world he's in will keep me out
I hope one day he'll let me in
So I can be special just to him.