Mate crime is a form of crime in which a perpetrator befriends a vulnerable person with the intention of then exploiting the person financially, physically or sexually. Related to ‘hate crime’ but targeted at autistic people, ‘mate crime’ is committed more for ruthless personal gain than actual hatred. It happens when vulnerable autistic people are befriended by false friends, who deceive, manipulate, bully and steal from them. This can sometimes turn into vicious physical bullying and is a real threat to autistic people. Looking into the statistics, I was shocked to discover just how prevalent and widespread – and how damaging – ‘mate crime’ is. [insert a stat or two here]
It was the combination of these two dynamic forces – the cruel exploitation of mate crime against the emotional story of two brothers rediscovering their lost relationship – that resulted in the final play.

As a parent of a child on the spectrum, I have a huge personal stake in this and wish to use the play to try and increase awareness of the dangers of mate crime, as well as using this website as a focus or hub, for people to share their experiences, ideas as well as helpful information and contacts with each other, in an attempt to help vulnerable adults to avoid and/or combat or escape from mate crime bullying.
For this reason, I have set up an autism/theatre blog to deal specifically with the autism issues and controversies raised by both plays.

If you have personal experience of mate crime, either against yourself, a family member or a friend that you’re willing to share or discuss, please contact me here and I aim to publish your account on this blog. Likewise, if you’re a professional working with autistic people and you have any helpful insights into this dangerous phenomenon, I would also like to hear from you.

Here are a few helpful links for anyone affected by this topic.