An information guide to help children with autism who are travelling with adults, has been produced by Manchester Airport.   Airport press offier Katy Gough created the guide after several requests by carers for pictures to help children plan their trip.   Airport Awareness uses images to show what to expect on a journey starting with arrival at check-in to going through security and returning home.

Previously speech and language therapists from Integrated Treatment Services have put together leaflets to help individual clients cope with the strict guidelines required by airports, and we have found that Manchester Airport has been very helpful and co-operative in providing pictures which could be used for this purpose.   By producing this guide, the Airport has ensured that accurate information is readily accessible to everyone who travels with children with ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder) and that the children are prepared for what can be a stressful experience.

The guide is free and was launched to coincide with World Autism Day.   It is available from information desks at the airport, the airport website and has also been distributed to local autism charities and schools with special needs units.

Jane Asher, President of the National Autistic Society, expressed her delight at Manchester Airport’s useful and understanding initiative.   She said “An airport can be a very confusing place for anyone, and for someone on the autism spectrum it can be especially frightening and disorientating”.

Further information is available on the National Autistic Society’s website together with details of how to order the booklet.   Click on the link below:

Associate Speech and Language Therapist