Tackling the Autism and Assessment Support Crisis

There is a crisis in the diagnosis and support of autistic children and young people (CYP). Two percent of CYP are autistic. They struggle to access diagnostic and support services.

There are systematic inequalities in diagnosis and supportThere support. Girls, children from ethnic minority families and those from poorer families are particularly disadvantaged.

Life chances for autistic CYP are seriously harmedLife harmed. They can have poorer educational outcomes, higher rates of school exclusion and poorer health and life expectancy. Autistic CYP can have 30 years lower life expectancy.

Move from a diagnostic to a needs led systemMove system. Early identification should be the norm. Meeting needs through effective support should not depend on diagnosis.