Welcome toChinese Autism

We endeavor to counter the misinformed perspectives and cultural stigma that uniquely exists within the Chinese community through providing guidance, information, education and awareness campaigns. Leading by example, we will remove barriers, address prejudice and foster inclusion and equality.

Our Vision

Changing perspectives about autism in the Chinese Community and turning stigma into strength.

Four young friends laughing together

Our Mission

A society where all Chinese ethnic neurodivergents are able to achieve their full potential.

A society where everyone can talk freely about autism and neurodivergence without shame or fear of recrimination.

Our Values

Empowerment

We strive to empower the Chinese-speaking autism community by providing accurate, reliable, and culturally relevant information and resources to promote greater awareness and understanding of autism.

Inclusivity

We believe all Chinese ethnic adults, children, young people, and their families should have access to accurate and relevant information about autism and autism services.

Equity

We create opportunities to address the inequalities that exist in society today for Chinese ethnic individuals. We stand up for the Chinese minority in the UK and the Chinese neurodivergent in the world for a radical improvement to be accepted, to work, educate, access services, and public resources without prejudice.

Collaboration

We value the importance of working in partnership with other organisations and individuals who share our mission and values, learning from them, and sharing our knowledge, expertise, and experience to achieve a better outcome for the Chinese-speaking neurodivergent community.

Our Story

Chinese Autism Community Interest Company (CACIC) was established by founder Hazel Lim in response to her lived experience.

When Hazel’s son was five years old she began to notice he was different to his peers. She noticed the way he interacted with other children and the way he responded to instruction seemed different in some way, but she wasn’t sure why. Hazel discussed her observations with her son’s teachers and they introduced the possibility that his behaviour might be indicative of neurodivergence.

The Challenges

Autism often remains hidden behind cultural shame and misunderstanding. These unspoken barriers isolate families and prevent autistic individuals from receiving the support and acceptance they deserve.

A child engaged in play, exploring their interests

Real inclusion happens every day:

In the joy of routines
In the challenge of being misunderstood
In the deep passion for special interests
In the courage to unlearn stigma, especially where silence still weighs heavily on families.
Visible Support
Wear it. Share it. Start the conversation.

It’s more than justa lanyard

Not every disability is visible, but every person deserves understanding. The HDS × CACIC Sunflower Lanyard empowers autistic individuals and families to move through public spaces with confidence.

Learn more
The HDS × CACIC Sunflower Lanyard for hidden disabilities
News & Stories

Explore our stories of change, recent news, the work we do, and ways to make an even greater impact together.

Featured
07-10-20252 min read

Debunking misconceptions are autistic people dangerous

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Featured
07-10-20252 min read

Wendy’s story finding strength in Neurodiversity

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07-10-20252 min read

Person first vs identity first language in the autism community

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Partnering With

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