The first ever strategy for improving the lives of adults with autism in England was published on 3 March 2010.
The Autism Act 2009 committed the Government to publishing an adult autism strategy to transform services for adults with autism. The publication of this strategy meets this commitment.
The strategy sets out a number of key actions and recommendations for central Government as well as for local authorities, the NHS and Jobcentre Plus, focusing on five key areas:
- increasing awareness and understanding of autism
- developing a clear and consistent pathway for diagnosis
- improving access to the services and support people need to live independently within the community
- employment
- enabling local partners to develop relevant services to meet identified needs and priorities.
On 2 April 2010 the government produced the first year delivery plan, entitled Towards 'Fulfilling and rewarding lives': The first year delivery plan for adults with autism in England. This sets out the governance structure and the actions, with timescales and responsibilities, that will be taken in the first year to support the implementation of 'Fulfilling and rewarding lives': The strategy for adults with autism in England (2010). Read the delivery plan here.