Autism, a developmental disorder that affects a certain spectrum of brain operation, is a widespread condition that affects many people around the world. Cases of autism vary widely from person to person, and interaction with an Autistic person can sometimes be rough. The Welsh town of Gwent has an autistic population of over 2,000; people who work and have families like everyone else. In order to improve communication and reduce risk for conflict, Gwent has introduced an ID card program for Autistic people that encourages communication during times of emergency (such as hospital stays) and alerts caretakers, law enforcement officers, and first responders to any issues they must be aware of when dealing with an autistic person.

In Gwent’s groundbreaking volunteer program, Autistic registrants would have an entry in a special database noting their condition and any peculiarities which might be essential to treatment or easy communication. An ID card called the ASD Attention card (Autistic Spectrum Disorder) is then issued and may be presented by the child or person with Autism to enhance interaction and communication in stressful times. The ASD Attention cards have been received warmly, and now over 100 cards have been issued. The organizer of the card, a Gwent police officer who got the idea from his 8 year old son (who has Aspberger’s, which falls under the umbrella of Autism) has said that it will benefit everyone in Gwent, and law enforcement and Autism specialists alike have encouraged the development of the ASD Attention Card.