The adult autism strategy says it is essential that adults with autism and parents/carers are involved in the development of local services. It therefore recommends the setting up of local autism partnership boards (APBs), or a similar mechanism, that "brings together different organisations, services and stakeholders locally and sets a clear direction for improved services". (6.11-6.13).
The delivery plan for the strategy, Towards 'Fulfilling and rewarding lives': The first year delivery plan for adults with autism in England, highlights their role further, stating:
While the structures [may be] … different, the principles are the same: they bring together representatives from local authorities, PCTs and providers, along with adults with autism and their carers, to help develop services locally. (p25)