70% of autistic women report unwanted sexual contact. 30% report rape. We know from the recent Inquiry into the CofE safeguarding situation that churches have not been safe places.
30% of autistic people are part of the LGBTQ communities, and may be terrified of disclosing that also, in some churches.
Who in your church knows about autism?
Who are you getting your information from?
Are you getting information directly from the autistic professionals, who are experienced in teaching churches how to ensure safety?
I’ve seen a lot of dreadful ‘training’ happening in churches, from people who have ended up describing us in appalling ways that have made it harder to disclose, not easier.
Source: Ann’s Autism Blog: Safeguarding and Church – An Informal Guide
