University of Bedfordshire study finds support lacking for neurodivergent women after sexual exploitation
The report urges for an overhaul of care for girls with autism and ADHD who have been affected by sexual exploitation
A University of Bedfordshire study has exposed significant gaps in support for neurodivergent young women and girls, especially those with autism and ADHD, after experiences of sexual exploitation.
The research, produced by the University’s Safer Young Lives Research Centre (SYLRC) in collaboration with the national women’s charity Advance and Kingston Council, was funded by London’s Violence Reduction Unit.
The report, ‘Intersecting Needs: Neurodivergence, Gender, and Sexual Violence in Local Support Systems’, was based on experiences in Kingston Upon Thames, and is one of the first UK studies to look locally at how neurodivergence intersects with harm and abuse, and how services respond.
Limited understanding and missed opportunities
Despite increased awareness of neurodiversity, the study finds services often lack understanding of how neurodivergent traits influence vulnerability and access to help. This results in missed opportunities to safeguard, identify, and support young people experiencing domestic abuse or sexual exploitation.
The research used interviews with neurodivergent girls who had lived experience, explored case files and service data, and gathered views from local professionals.
National literature was also reviewed to draw a detailed picture of the current system’s strengths and weaknesses.
Recommendations for more inclusive support
The report outlines the need for trauma-informed, neurodivergence-aware practice, tailored training for those supporting girls and culturally diverse communities, more flexible referral pathways, and stronger multi-agency partnerships. The researchers recommend:
Embedding neurodivergence awareness and trauma-informed care across local services
Prioritising long-term, relationship-based care for better recovery
Co-designing support services with neurodivergent young women and girls
Providing culturally sensitive resources for families
What the study leaders and authority say
Professor Debra Allnock, Lead Author and Director of SYLRC, University of Bedfordshire, said: “Neurodivergent young women and girls – particularly those with autism and ADHD – face distinct and often overlooked risks of sexual exploitation.
This research shines a light on how their experiences are shaped not only by neurodivergence, but by systemic gaps in understanding, support, and service design. By centring their voices and the insights of professionals, we’ve identified practice-informed recommendations to improve support and service responsiveness.
Our hope is that this report prompts meaningful change – ensuring that support is not only available, but inclusive, trauma-informed, and responsive to the realities of these young people’s lives.”
Jess Trick, Head of Evidence & Insights at Advance, said: “There remains a significant gap in research into the lived experiences of young women and girls who are frequently marginalised due to the lack of recognition and support for their diverse needs.
This work is urgently needed to highlight the challenges they face and unmet needs that persist. By amplifying young women's voices and highlighting examples of effective practice, this research offers a vital opportunity to inform and improve responses across sectors.”
Kavitha Ramakrishnan, Violence and Vulnerabilities Manager at Kingston Council, said: “Kingston Council is proud to have collaborated on this vital study alongside the University of Bedfordshire and Advance. We’re grateful to the young women and girls who bravely shared their lived experiences for this report. Their voices have highlighted how neurodivergent individuals are often misunderstood or overlooked in current support systems. We are dedicated to working across all sectors to implement the recommendations and ensure better protection for every young person in our Borough.”