THERE are an estimated 7,000 people in North Yorkshire who have autism. This term is used in the Autism Act 2009 to cover a range of conditions including classic autism through to Asperger’s Syndrome. Autism is a lifelong and complex condition that often has a huge impact on a person’s ability to live a normal and independent life. With the right support and understanding, people with autism have the potential to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.
The purpose of the Autism Act 2009 is to improve the lives of people with autism. The Government’s expectations of public services were set out in the 2010 statutory guidance, which has recently been updated. After five years, progress in North Yorkshire to respond to the requirements of the Autism Act has been patchy and painfully slow. This is despite the fact that the number of children and adults diagnosed with autism continues to rise.
The Equality Act 2010 requires public services to make reasonable adjustments so that people with autism can access services. The Care Act 2015 identifies autism as a condition that requires special attention for assessment.
Under the Autism Act, North Yorkshire County Council has a duty to produce an all-age autism strategy setting out how the council, together with other public and voluntary sector organisations (eg social care, NHS, education, housing, leisure, police, job centres) will make life better for adults, young people and children with autism and their families. The North Yorkshire strategy for 2015-2018 is currently out for consultation. If you are affected by this strategy, or if you wish to show support for the needs of people with autism and their families, this is your opportunity. You can do this by going to the website, www.northyorks.gov.uk/autismstrategy to download a copy of the strategy and to complete the on-line consultation. Alternatively, you can ring 01609-532562 for a copy of the strategy or to register that you would like to attend the consultation event for the Hambleton and Richmondshire area, which is taking place on Friday, September 11 at 2.30pm at the Golden Lion Hotel in Northallerton. The closing date for the consultation is September 11.
Please show the public services in North Yorkshire, that autism matters to you!
David McAsey, Hutton Rudby.
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