Yet Again

the biggest problem is these units are run for profit by private companies that's why in my opinion autistic people are being held there against theirs and their families will because its profitable

If that happened to me, there would be no one to take care of Daisy.  She'd probably starve.  I'd kill myself.

Is this following meltdowns?  Were they in public?  I was Sectioned once for three days because I became suicidal and rang for help.  The Samaritans called the police out - but because I was outside, sitting on the wall waiting, they Sectioned me for 'being in a public place.'  It was only for three days in the local MH hospital - but it was still terrifying.

You're right Perdu and Giddy. Accounts in the press and on this forum about the abuse of autistic people in Assessment and Treament Units make it clear that very urgent action is required. It is no exaggeration to say that lives are at risk, and sanity too.

Naively, I thought an autism diagnosis would prevent behaviour being misunderstood and inappropriately punished. I wrongly assumed Assessment and Treatment Units would aim to mimimise distress and encourage coping and self-soothing strategies. 

If the person being abused (or a relative or supporter) speaks up, the establishment moves in and attempts to destroy their credibility. There are so many precedents - Connor Sparrowhawk and Sara Ryan, Beth and her Dad, other cases we cannot name. 

I'm still reeling from the fact that Alexis had to flee the country and live in exile to be safe. Fortunately she had the resources to save herself, but most autistic people don't. We need to feel safe, we need to feel understood, we need to feel confident that Assessment and Treatment Units will not abuse us.  

We need confirmation that NAS is pursuing this with the utmost rigour and urgency. 

The people responsible must be held to account for this appalling abuse.  

i know that woman was a teacher and went voluntarily ive been in the phsyc ward 3 times in last 2yrs i am S&£ting bricks if it happens again i could end up at one of these ATU's

That's absolutely terrifying.  Makes me paranoid.

Official figures show more than 2,500 people with autism and learning disabilities were held in ATUs last year, including 230 children. The number of under-18s detained in ATUs has more than doubled in just three years.

totally agree perdu its like victorian times when those deemed to be mentally unfit were locked up against their will

I was just going to post about this we need to DEMAND a statement from NAS about  ALL OF this and we need it QUICK. Actionmust be taken, we are not animals.