Autistica

Autistica is a UK based charity engaged in funding and campaigning for research on autism and related conditions. Its research strategy is focused on improving the understanding of mental health, physical health, language and epilepsy in autism.

History
Autistica was founded in 2004 by entrepreneur and philanthropist Dame Stephanie Shirley. They initially operated as a UK partner to the US charity Autism Speaks. The link with the US parent was severed on 1 January 2010. Autistica is registered in and operates throughout England and Wales.

Activities
Autistica funds medical research to understand the causes of autism, improve diagnosis, and develop new treatments and interventions. They are the UK's leading autism medical research charity.

Their current scientific priorities are to:


 * Bring down the average age of diagnosis and develop early interventions that can improve the outlook of autistic people.
 * Improve the quality of life for young people and autistic adults by understanding the additional physical and mental health issues that many individuals experience and ensure the development of effective treatments.
 * Support autistic adults by improving the understanding of how autism changes over the lifespan and making sure that adult-specific needs are addressed.

Fundraising
In 2009, Autistica provided a total of £940,000 to its beneficiaries in autism research.

Notable members and participants

 * Michael Rutter
 * Stephanie Shirley
 * Michael Fitzpatrick
 * Bridget Ogilvie
 * Ann Olivarius
 * Jane Asher (vice-president)