Autism Sussex welcomed a raft of new measures in the landmark adult autism strategy published today aimed at tackling the isolation, ignorance and inequality routinely experienced by the over 300,000 adults with autism in England.

Announced by Care Services Minister, Phil Hope, the three year strategy Fulfilling and rewarding lives is expected to drive a dramatic improvement in the quality of health, social care and other public services for people with autism. This follows research from the National Autistic Society (NAS) revealing at least 1 in 3 adults with autism are experiencing serious mental health difficulties due to a lack of support.

Jean Rose, Chief Executive of Autism Sussex said:

‘The delivery plan for the strategy, which will be published by the 31st March 2010 will set out the priorities for the first year and provide support for the NHS and local authorities to deliver the strategy at a local level’.

Anya Ustaszewski, vice chair of the strategy’s external reference group and an adult with autism said:

“A lack of support can leave people with autism isolated and vulnerable. An exciting milestone has been reached with the publication of the strategy, however, it is important that the delivery plan contains clear measures for local authorities and support from the Department of Health to deliver them. We want to be able to feel happy, safe and accepted and have equal and fair access to choice and opportunities in our lives. We should all be able to fulfil our true potential as autistic individuals.”

“Finally, it is important that this strategy is seen as the start of an ongoing process to improve the lives and rights of people with autism – it cannot be seen as a ‘one-off’ solution.”

In accordance with the Autism Act the strategy will be accompanied by statutory guidance to be published by December 2010. This means local authorities and NHS services who fail to provide appropriate support for adults with autism will be breaking the law.

Autism Sussex welcomes measures in the strategy including:

• A programme to develop training with health and social care professional bodies – backed by £500,000 investment to ensure better recognition and awareness of autism in frontline public services
• Autism awareness training for all Jobcentre Plus Disability Employment Advisers (DEAs) – NAS research shows over a third of adults with autism think their DEA has a poor knowledge of autism and just 15% of adults with autism are in full time paid employment
• The development of clear, consistent pathways for diagnosis through the development of guidance by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the appointment of local lead professionals to develop diagnostic services 
• A commitment to develop guidance on making public services accessible for adults with autism, like improving buildings, public transport and communication

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