Prior's Court comment: Publication of national strategy for autistic children, young people and adults: 2021 to 2026

Prior's Court's Chief Executive Mike Robinson comments on the government's new autism strategy for England.

The national strategy outlines how the government plans to improve the lives of autistic people and their families and carers in England, and its implementation plan for 2021 to 2022.

Mike said:

We welcome the publication of the new autism strategy and in particular that this is the first time autistic children and young people have been included alongside adults. There is clear evidence that the earlier autism is diagnosed and the right support is put in place, the better the chances of people being able to live fulfilled and happy lives.

We also welcome the inclusion of a broad range of initiatives to develop awareness, understanding and acceptance of autism across all parts of society. This fundamental understanding has to be in place before we can maximise progress across areas such as education, access to healthcare and employment.

There is still lots to do to enhance the lives of autistic people and their families but this new strategy sets out some welcome steps in the right direction.

The strategy in full can be read on the government's website.