The first ever Barbie reflecting autism is fantastic for visibility - but people should also feel supported especially in finance

Mattel’s release of a Barbie representing someone on the autism spectrum has been welcomed by many as a long-overdue moment for inclusion. It’s more than just a doll - it’s visibility, validation, and a step towards better understanding. For people with autism (and parents of children who are), seeing themselves reflected in mainstream culture matters. It says: you belong here too, and there is no shame in having different support needs.

But it also opens up an even more important conversation: it’s not just about being seen, it’s about being supported - especially in day-to-day life, including how you manage your money. Whether you're autistic, neurodivergent, or just someone who finds managing finances difficult at times, we all process things in different ways and the good news is: your bank or financial provider has a duty to help. And you don’t need a formal diagnosis to ask for support.

Money can be overwhelming - you're not alone

Let’s be honest: managing money is stressful at the best of times. From remembering passwords and payment dates to dealing with confusing jargon, long phone queues, and surprise charges - it can feel like a lot.

For autistic people and others with sensory sensitivities, communication differences, or executive function challenges, that stress can be magnified.

The problem is, the systems aren't always designed with different ways of thinking and processing in mind. But the Equality Act 2010 is clear: service providers must make reasonable adjustments for disabled people - and that includes invisible disabilities like autism.

What help can you ask for?

You might not know this, but most financial service providers offer tailored support for people who need it. Here are just a few things you can ask for:

Alternative ways to communicate

Hate phone calls? You can request help via live chat, email, or secure messages instead.

Extra time to process information

You can ask for longer to respond to letters or make decisions - especially with anything involving debt or arrears.

Clearer explanations

Financial terms feel almost deliberately confusing sometimes. You’re well within your rights to ask for a written, plain English breakdown of what's happening, what your options are, and what your next steps could be.

A support person or third party

You can give someone you trust permission to speak on your behalf or help you manage things without giving up full control of your account.

Spending tools and alerts

Some providers (like thinkmoney) offer budgeting tools, instant notifications and smart features that help with routine and reduce anxiety around overspending.

You don’t have to justify your request

One of the biggest myths is that you need to provide proof, paperwork or a medical diagnosis to get support. You don’t. If something makes money management more difficult for you - whether it’s a diagnosis, a mental health condition, or simply how your brain works - that’s enough.

You can simply say:

“I’m autistic and I find certain parts of managing my account challenging. What support can you offer?”

Or:

“I struggle with processing information in this format and I’d like some help understanding my options.”

Your provider should listen, treat your request with respect, and offer adjustments without judgment. There should be no shame attached to asking for support.

Here are some ways thinkmoney has built inclusivity into to our process that can support:

• We offer real-time budgeting support - so you can automate bill payments and know what is safe to spend
• There are no surprise fees – you pay a fixed monthly account fee, and that’s it
• The app is clear and easy to navigate – built with simplicity in mind
• And if you need extra help, the customer support teams are trained to listen and adapt, not judge

In short, it’s a service that works around your life – not the other way around. Because needing things laid out a little more clearly, or preferring things in writing over a phone call, or asking for reminders, shouldn’t make money management harder.

It's not just about Barbie. It's about belonging.

Representation like a Barbie doll designed to reflect autism is a brilliant milestone, especially for younger generations. But it’s also a flag to consider that true inclusion means changing the systems we all rely on, not just changing the packaging.

That means recognising that financial stress affects people differently, and designing support that’s flexible, human, and fair.

So if you need help, ask. Your financial provider should meet you where you are - not the other way around. Your money should work for you, not leave you feeling excluded or overwhelmed.

Where to get more help

If you’re struggling and not sure where to turn, these organisations can help:

• MoneyWellness – Free, confidential help with budgeting, money worries, and debt support.
• National Autistic Society – Advice and resources for autistic people and families, including managing money and accessing services.

We’re always working to make what we offer more inclusive, so if you’ve got feedback or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you.