A NEW card has been released for people with autism to carry to ensure they are given appropriate support by the emergency services.

Launched today by Merseyside Police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service the new 'Autism Attention Card' is part of a collaboration with Cheshire Autism Practical Support and Autism Together.

It is hoped the initiative will help people on the autism spectrum to receive appropriate support in an emergency situation and provides training for staff to engage more effectively.

Sergeant Mike Brumskill said: "Merseyside Police is determined to provide the best quality of service we can for people with autism and their families.

"This proven initiative will help protect vulnerable people within our communities.

"The positive response from autism support groups and partner agencies has been fantastic.

"If you are eligible for the card or know someone who would benefit from it, I would urge you to apply.

“The Attention Card scheme has been a great success in Cheshire since its launch with numerous examples of good practice in often difficult and distressing circumstances.

"Hundreds of people carry the card and autism awareness training given to police officers has helped many people, giving reassurance to them and their families.”

The Attention Card is designed to be carried by a person with a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition or Asperger's Syndrome.

Details of the cardholder can then be recorded onto Merseyside’s Police’s intelligence data system.

Jo Garner, founder and managing director of ChAPS said: "We are delighted that this initiative is being rolled out to other police forces, especially Merseyside Police and MFRS as our geographical neighbours.

“It means for those people who carry the card, they can be assured they will be understood by the police and receive the appropriate support.

“People on the autism spectrum cannot always understand complex or abstract questions, and can appear to have disregard for authority by not being able to give clear adequate explanation for their behaviour, or even understand the situation they find themselves in.

"This card is vital in helping both the cardholder and police to ensure situations do not become difficult."

To apply for the card visit www.cheshireautism.org.uk/news/attention-card