RESEARCH INTO AUTISM AND CORONAVIRUS

15 May 2020

Would you like to help researchers learn more about how autistic people are coping with coronavirus?

Autistica has told us about four studies that need more participants. The studies are all online surveys that take 35 minutes or less.

1. Coping during COVID-19

The Prediction & Learning Lab at the University of Cambridge is looking for volunteers to take part in a survey about the impact of COVID-19 on autistic adults' well-being, mental health and everyday routines.

The survey will help us to understand how autistic people can be better supported in the event of future periods of lockdown, or when facing periods of social isolation or uncertainty.

This study is run by the University of Cambridge.

What is involved? One 20-minute online survey

Who can take part? Autistic people aged 18+ years Non-autistic people for comparison

If you would like to take part, here's the link: Coping during COVID-19

2. Co-SPACE study

Researchers at the University of Oxford want to better understand how families are coping during the pandemic, what helps children's mental health and what parents can do to support their children’s mental health at this time.

The findings are being shared with organisations that can use them to make sure children and families are getting the support they need.

This study is run by the University of Oxford.

What is involved? One 20-minute survey now and a monthly 10-minute survey until restrictions have been lifted.

Who can take part? Parents with children aged 4 - 16 years

If you would like to take part, here’s the link: Co-SPACE study

3. The Cope Study

This study aims to better understand professionals’ perspectives about the impact of COVID-19 on autistic people. Those who take part will be asked to note down the ways in which they think COVID-19, social distancing and shielding measures might impact on autistic people, whether there are any barriers to routine services or resulting unmet needs.

The results will be used to inform professionals who are supporting autistic people to cope during and after the pandemic.

This study is run by Kings College London.

What is involved? One 15-minute anonymous online survey

Who can take part? Health or social care professionals or researchers who are working in England with autistic people

If you would like to take part, here’s the link: The Cope Study

4. Children's Feelings and Behaviours Study

There are several reasons why children with special educational needs and disabilities might be finding the current Coronavirus outbreak particularly challenging.

This study aims to determine whether and how children's and parents' feelings and behaviours have changed during the Coronavirus pandemic. The researchers also want to find out if certain groups might be finding it especially difficult.

This study is run by the University of York.

What is involved? One 15-minute online survey

Who can take part? Parents who have a child with a special educational need or disability.

If you would like to take part, here’s the link: Children's Feelings and Behaviours Study

Autistica’s Coronavirus resource hub is available to anyone who is looking for advice. It's updated daily. Here's the link:

Autistica’s Coronavirus resource hub