Supporting autistic refugees in the UK using the HOPE(S) model

Refugees are likely to have experienced considerable trauma in their life, even more so if they are autistic. The ‘hostile environment’ created in the UK to reduce the number of refugees claiming asylum is likely to have exacerbated the difficulties experienced by refugees, including in terms of access to healthcare services. Refugees detained under the Mental Health Act 1983 may experience restrictive practices and therefore be exposed to additional trauma or re-traumatisation. This article focuses in particular on the harmful effects of solitary confinement on autistic refugees and discusses how healthcare professionals can use the HOPE(S) model to support this population.