“Critical gaps in support” for neurodivergent girls affected by sexual exploitation

A new study has found that neurodivergent young women and girls, particularly those with autism and ADHD, are facing systemic barriers to support after experiencing sexual exploitation, with current services often failing to meet their needs.

The research, Intersecting Needs: Neurodivergence, Gender, and Sexual Violence in Local Support Systems, was carried out by the University of Bedfordshire’s Safer Young Lives Research Centre (SYLRC) in partnership with Advance, Kingston Council, and funded by London’s Violence Reduction Unit (VRU).

Drawing on interviews with neurodivergent girls who have lived experience of domestic abuse and sexual exploitation in Kingston upon Thames, as well as interviews with local professionals, case reviews, and national evidence, the study highlights significant challenges in how neurodivergent young people are identified, safeguarded and supported.

According to the researchers, current systems often overlook how neurodivergence can shape both vulnerability to exploitation and engagement with services, leading to missed opportunities for protection and recovery.

Professor Debra Allnock, Lead Author and Director of the Safer Young Lives Research Centre, 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.”

The report sets out a series of recommendations aimed at improving multi-agency responses and ensuring that support is accessible and inclusive. These include:

Embedding trauma-informed, neurodivergence-aware practice across services, with tailored training for professionals.

Co-designing services with neurodivergent young women and girls and developing culturally sensitive family resources.

Strengthening multi-agency partnerships and integrating neurodivergence awareness into safeguarding strategies.

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, added: “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.”

The report is among the first in the UK to examine the intersection between neurodivergence, sexual exploitation and local service response from both young people’s and professionals’ perspectives, with findings expected to inform future safeguarding policy, commissioning, and frontline practice.