The RAF Museum London has achieved a national charity award in recognition of its work to provide an autism-friendly environment and inclusive customer service for autistic people.

The RAF Museum London based in Colindale has gained the National Autistic Society’s Autism Friendly Award, which supports businesses to be more inclusive for autistic people through providing accessible customer services, information and environments. It can be adopted by any customer facing organisation, including businesses in the retail, transport, arts, entertainment and leisure industries.

The RAF Museum has worked closely with the National Autistic Society and consulted with autistic visitors and specialist advisors to improve its facilities, interpretation, signage, staff training, digital platforms and sensory experiences. These efforts are part of the museum’s broader commitment to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring all visitors can explore and engage with the Museum’s rich heritage in a welcoming and supportive environment.

At least one in 100 people are autistic, which means more than 700,000 people in the UK, but many autistic people and their families still struggle to access essential community spaces, businesses and shops. By meeting the standards set out in the Autism Friendly Award, businesses can ensure they offer an industry approved autism-friendly environment.

Sarah Castle, Head of Learning & Engagement at the RAF Museum, said: “We are incredibly proud to receive the Autism Friendly Award. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to making the Museum a space where everyone feels valued and included. By listening to autistic visitors and working with experts, we’ve been able to make meaningful changes that enhance the experience for all.”

Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation and Projects at the National Autistic Society, said: “We are delighted that The RAF Museum London has achieved the Autism Friendly Award, helping to make society a more autism-friendly place for autistic people and their families. There are lots of small changes businesses can make to better support autistic people, and just a little understanding can go a long way. We hope to work with as many businesses as possible to help create a society that works for autistic people.”

The National Autistic Society’s Autism Accreditation Programme is the UK’s only autism-specific quality assurance programme of support and development for all those providing services to autistic people.