The first stage of the Autism Action Network launched in 2009. Its aim was to help local campaigners build upon and expand the fantastic work they were doing to represent the interests of people with autism and their families.
We worked with four local groups, each running a campaign on an issue that affects many people with autism and their families.
All the groups received intensive support and training, to develop their skills and help them to work for a better deal for people with autism in their areas. They also received advice on how to influence decision-makers, how to work with the media and how to participate in the decision-making process.
What the groups achieved
NAS Croydon branch
The branch campaigned to improve educational provision for children with autism in their area. During their campaigning journey, the group met with the head of SEN in the area to discuss a range of key issues, including a lack of local provision, statementing, training, exclusions and speech and language therapy (SALT). The group launched surveys for parents and children and young people, teachers and other school staff and produced a report for the local ASD strategy group based on what they found out. They also provided invaluable feedback for our SEN Green Paper response.
NAS Peterborough branch
The branch campaigned to improve services for adults with autism in their area. They are now active members of the local Autism Sub-Group, which is a multi-agency planning group, co-chaired by the Peterborough branch officer. The Sub-Group has been working hard to respond to the national adult autism strategy, by developing their own local strategy. The branch have also run surveys and held consultation events to enable a wider range of people to be involved in the development of the local strategy as part of their campaign.
NAS Rotherham branch
The branch's campaign aim was "To have a care pathway for people with autism in Rotherham which enables them to get the support they need throughout their lives." They campaigned initially for a Tier 2 child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS). The group wrote letters to the local CAMHS commissioner and worked with the local CAMHS professionals to organise a focus group for parents. As a result Rotherham agreed to do more work to look at their provision for children with autism locally.
Cornwall Asperger's Association
The group joined the Autism Action Network because they were keen to improve support for adults with Asperger syndrome locally. They are now involved in implementation of the adult autism strategy in their area.
If you want to help people with autism live the life they choose by taking action in partnership with us, join the next stage of the Autism Action Network. Find out more here.