Our Founder, Jane Atkinson, on BBC News highlighting the issues for high functioning people with a hidden disability travelling alone.
Jane’s son George was abandoned by Aer Lingus at Dublin Airport following the cancellation of his stepfather’s flight to collect George from Dublin where George had spent time with his grandparents.
George has autism and although he is high functioning, he is still extremely vulnerable. Upon hearing the cancellation of her husband’s flight Jane immediately called Aer Lingus Special Assistance where not only did they agree to accompany George they also assured George’s cousin at Dublin Airport that he would not be left alone at any point. In addition, they assured the cabin crew would also check on him during the flight which did not happen. . In general airlines do not offer special assistance to lone vulnerable travellers which is not acceptable.
The need for highlighting the vulnerability of high functioning adults is now urgent. George arrived at Heathrow safely, but this situation could have easily not turned out very differently. The understanding of high functioning autistic adults needs much more awareness, for example although George may have the capability to ask for help in a situation, he would not do so due to feeling embarrassed which can then spiral into severe anxiety. There seems to be a notion that high functioning adults do not experience social and emotional issues which is completely unfounded.
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