A dedicated set of learning materials has been released to help road safety practitioners better support autistic and neurodiverse learners. The toolkit, created by Co-Pilot in collaboration with the National Autistic Society, includes 24 concise videos showcasing practical demonstrations of accessible, inclusive approaches to road safety education.

The resource is designed to guide professionals as they put together lesson plans, develop teaching materials and anticipate situations where autistic people may require additional support. It also encourages organisations to consider reasonable adjustments that ensure disabled learners are not placed at a disadvantage. According to the National Autistic Society, the aim is to give staff clear and usable insight so they can build confidence in adapting their practice.

With an estimated 700,000 autistic people in the UK, most road safety professionals are likely to work with autistic children or adults at some point, including individuals without a formal diagnosis. Differences in communication, sensory processing and executive functioning can influence how autistic people engage with safety sessions and learning environments. One local authority recently improved its school walking-route guidance—adding clearer maps, colour cues and quieter alternatives—after feedback from a parent, demonstrating how small adjustments can enhance accessibility.

Co-Pilot’s CEO James Evans said the new toolkit aims to equip practitioners with practical, inclusive methods as the sector prepares for the forthcoming Road Safety Strategy. He emphasised that understanding autism not only supports effective learning but also fulfils professional and legal duties to create fair and accessible services.