Campaign win on autism data collection!

Push for Action calls for the implementation of the adult autism strategy across the country.

The aim of the strategy is to improve services and support for adults with autism to make sure they can live full and prosperous lives. This is why Push for Action recommended changes to the way data is collected  at a local level. Thanks to the campaign and to your fantastic support for the campaign these changes have now been introduced.  

The autism strategy recognises that in order to do this local areas need better information and data on adults with autism in their area. If local areas know how many people with autism live in their area and what their needs are this will help them to better plan for improved support.

The changes mean that data will now be gathered, not only on why people are receiving services, but also on any conditions that people report. The conditions that local authorities must collect data on include two new categories, one on autism and one on Asperger syndrome or high functioning autism. All local authorities will now have to collect this data and report their findings in 2014/15. In order for local authorities to prepare for the change, it has been recommended that local authorities begin to put processes in place to do this now. 


We believe that this is a big step forward for local areas in ensuring they understand the needs of their local population of adults with autism.