Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people of all ages in England. The programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. It offers families education, coaching, and connection through resources, one-to-one peer support, and group learning events.
What is Autism Central?
Autism Central offers families and support networks of autistic people education, coaching, and connection, through resources, one-to-one peer support, and community events.
- For everyone: supports the full network around an autistic person, including parents, carers, partners, siblings, children, friends, colleagues and neighbours.
- Learn from others: Its fully co-produced and co-delivered with autistic people of all ages and their family and support networks, to ensure support is shaped by lived experience.
- Free to access: The programme is delivered by Anna Freud, a mental health charity for children and young people, and commissioned by the NHS.
Why take part?
- Autism Central has now supported more than 30,000 families
- 95% of attendees would recommend to others (Based on attendee feedback from family guide sessions in October 2025).
“I found it quite validating – knowing that all of our families, or young people, are different but also understanding what has worked for others may work for us.” Parent feedback
“I felt heard and respected and I came away with ideas to help my son, and the feeling that I am not alone in my journey.” Parent feedback
How to take part
- Join an online group learning event for families of autistic people to reflect and work together, sharing knowledge and skills, including drop-ins, education family guide sessions and reflective sessions.
- Book a one-to-one coaching session with a peer guide to access practical guidance and signposting.
- Sign-up to the monthly newsletter.
- Find information and resources, including blogs, podcasts and animations to learn more on the Autism Central website.