UBC Press The Independent Woman's Handbook for Super Safe Living on the Autistic Spectrum book Paperback

Certain characteristics of autism, such as difficulty understanding social cues, may make women vulnerable to potentially dangerous situations. Robyn Steward has written this supportive guide to help all women on the autistic spectrum live independently, make their own choices in life, and be safe whilst doing so.This book will provide you with the knowledge to recognise potential risks to your personal safety and the skills and strategies required to avoid and overcome them. Informed by a survey of, and interviews with, women on and off the autistic spectrum, it explores common safety issues encountered by women and offers practical advice to help you stay safe and supported in your independence. Topics covered include friendships, relationships and sex, alcohol and drugs, money and employment and staying safe outside the home and online.This handbook is your guide to super safe living as an independent woman and will help you to stay safe whilst living life to the full. It may also be of interest to your family, friends and carers, giving them insight into life on the spectrum and confidence that you will enjoy your independence in an informed and safe manner.

Robyn Steward is 26 years old and is on the autistic spectrum. She has been wowing audiences for years with her clear, candid and refreshing approach to providing  information on autism, and now she brings her straightforward positive style to women's safety. Robyn is an autism trainer, mentor and consultant and artist, and travels internationally, giving talks to educators, therapists, parents and people on the spectrum. She has spoken about autism at the House of Commons, in the national and international press, on radio and television, as well as annually at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). Robyn also helps to raise awareness for people on the autism spectrum as a National Autistic Society (NAS) Ambassador, co-chairing the charity's Professionals' and Women and Girls Conferences in 2012, as well as judging their Professionals Awards. She lives independently in London.