Autism strategy breaks new ground

England’s first ever national Autism Strategy commits local authorities and the NHS to raising awareness of adults with autism, as well as improving diagnosis of the condition, and making services more accessible.

‘Fulfilling and rewarding lives’, the strategy for adults with autism in England, is focused on helping adults with the condition to live independent fulfilling lives and find work.

The strategy, published in March 2010, includes plans for a National Autism Programme Board, training for health and social care practitioners (supported by £500,000 of investment), guidance on making public services more accessible, plus plans for making diagnosis of the condition clear and consistent.

Among targets to be met in the first year of rolling out the strategy, is agreement of regional action plans.

The strategy will be reviewed in 2013.

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