Autism Association 2022 Annual Report

Partnering with the Western Australia Police Force

Since the launch of the Autism Alert Card, we have continued working in partnership with the Western Australia Police Force to help individuals with Autism feel safe and understood when they encounter any situations involving Police and first responders.

Safe & Found WA This year, we partnered with the Western Australia Police Force and Australia Medic Alert Foundation to launch the Safe & Found WA initiative. This initiative supports individuals who might be at risk of becoming lost or reported as missing by ensuring Police have immediate access to critical information to assist when undertaking search operations. To support the success of this initiative, the Association worked closely and provided consultation, advice and training for the WA Police Force, Emergency Response Unit and members of the SES search team to develop their understanding of Autism and strategies to better support people with Autism during searches. Autism Alert Card The Autism Association teamed up with the WA Police Force to launch the Autism Alert Card in 2021. This card alerts emergency services that the person carrying the card has Autism and may require additional support. It emphasises that the Autism Alert cardholder may have difficulties in communicating and may show signs of stress. It also includes 2 contacts who can offer support in emergency situations. To date, over 650 individuals have ordered a personalised card.

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