A 12-year-old girl is calling on the UK Government to teach severe autism, non-verbal needs and sensory crises in PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education).
Daisy Griffiths has launched an official UK Parliament petition after seeing the daily challenges faced by her 15-year-old sister, Rosie who is severely autistic and non-speaking.
The petition calls for mandatory PSHE education in schools covering severe autism, nonspeaking communication, sensory overload, and crisis response.
Daisy believes real change and inclusion must start in the classrooms all over the UK, teaching children understanding and empathy from a young age.
Speaking to Scotland4kids, Daisy said: “Rosie communicates differently from a lot of people, but she deserves the exact same kindness and understanding. She can become dysregulated when overwhelmed, but she is also giggly, cheeky, and loving, and she always asks for me, as her sister.
“I started this petition so pupils learn about severe autism and sensory overload early, ensuring non-speaking children like my sister are properly understood and supported in school and in the wider community.”
Daisy believes that the current curriculum often focuses on mild autism, leaving the public ignorant about severe, non-verbal autism and dysregulated behaviour.
This lack of awareness leads to judgment, misunderstanding, and distress when families use necessary protective holds during sensory crises in public.
Daisy feels that educating students on severe autism, meltdown triggers, and non-verbal needs will build real understanding, end public stigma, and protect SEN families from hostility.
Liz and Dan, Rosie and Daisy’s parents said: “As Daisy’s parents, we see first-hand how crucial understanding and inclusion are for non-speaking children with complex issues like Rosie.
“We are so proud of Daisy for turning her love for her sister into a national campaign that gives non-speaking children a voice and helps make schools more empathetic spaces for everyone.”
To find out more and sign the petition click here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/780527#main-content
