This page explains what happens next and helps you decide whether you are ready to complete the application form.

At this stage, there is no commitment and no payment required. The application form simply helps our team understand your family’s circumstances, suitability and readiness.

‍

Choose your next step

Ready to apply?
Complete the application form so our team can review whether the Residential Programme may be suitable for your family.

‍

About the Residential Programme

The Residential Programme supports autistic individuals and their families through the careful training and matching of an autism assistance dog.

Each placement is planned carefully around the needs of the autistic handler, the family and the dog.

Places are limited and depend on suitability, programme capacity, dog availability and the right match.

Expected timeline

The expected timeline for the Residential Programme 2026 is around 18 months.

This is because suitable dogs must be carefully selected, trained and assessed. This year, suitable young and adult dogs have been less available, so more puppies are being developed through supported foster homes before later assessment.

Programme cost

The client contribution for the Residential Programme 2026 is £16,990.

Autism Dogs Charity subsidises the programme through fundraising and donor support, so families contribute only part of the true cost.

The contribution helps cover dog selection, specialist training, family support, therapeutic input and aftercare.

Payment structure

£5,000 deposit
Payable only if accepted onto the programme.

£11,990 second payment
Payable once successfully matched with an assistance dog.

No payment is required at this application stage.

What the application form is for

The application form helps us understand:

• your family’s circumstances;
• the autistic handler’s needs;
• what support you hope an assistance dog may provide;
• your understanding of the timeline and cost;
• whether this may be the right time for your family.

Completing the form does not guarantee a place, but it helps us review applications carefully and responsibly.

Before applying, please make sure you understand

• The expected timeline is around 18 months.
• The programme cost is £16,990.
• No payment is required at this stage.
• Completing the application does not guarantee a place.
• Progression depends on suitability, dog availability and programme capacity.
• The welfare of the dog and the needs of the autistic handler are central to every decision.

Download the Programme Guide

Please read the Programme Guide before completing the application form. It explains the programme in more detail and will help you decide whether this feels like the right next step.

Complete the Application Form

If you have read the information and feel ready to continue, please complete the application form.

There is no commitment and no payment required at this stage.

‍

Frequently asked questions

Does completing the application guarantee a place?

No. It helps our team review whether the programme may be suitable for your family.

Do I need to pay anything now?

No. No payment is required at this stage.

Why is the cost £16,990?

The contribution supports the full programme, including dog selection, training, family support, therapeutic input and aftercare.

Can the cost be paid in stages?

Yes. The current payment structure is a £5,000 deposit after acceptance, followed by £11,990 once successfully matched with an assistance dog.

What happens after I apply?

Our team will review your application. Families who may be suitable for the next stage may be contacted for further discussion.

Thank you

We know this is an important decision for families.

Our priority is to communicate clearly, manage expectations honestly and make careful decisions for both the autistic handler and the dog.

‍