Bristol, UK: The National Police Autism Association (NPAA) is today aware of a trend on social media site TikTok called the #AutismChallenge – reported as “the worst thing on social media”.
What seems to have begun as a well-intentioned campaign to raise awareness and acceptance of autism has escalated, which has resulted in the abuse of autistic and disabled individuals. This is hate crime, and it is not acceptable.
We advise any autistic person experiencing such abuse to report it to their local police service. Objectionable content on social media should be reported via the platform’s reporting facility.
The NPAA works with all UK police forces to help support autistic victims of crime, as well as continuing to support those within the law enforcement community whose lives are touched by it.
About us: The NPAA is an independent group supporting – and run by – UK police officers, staff and volunteers who are affected by autism (including Asperger syndrome) and other hidden conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD. We welcome all police personnel with a personal, family or professional interest in these conditions.