The National Autistic Society Scotland is delighted that the Scottish Government has published its public consultation on the Learning Disability, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill, which means that autistic people and their families can now have their say on what they would like to see included in the new legislation.

For several years, the National Autistic Society Scotland has been calling for a commissioner for autistic people, and it is great to see that the public consultation on the Bill includes proposals for a commissioner or commission. Earlier this year, the National Autistic Society Scotland published the findings of a previous survey, which showed that 96% of the 1,215 people who responded supported a commissioner for autistic people and people with a learning disability.

A Commissioner would not only be a champion for autistic people, but it would also hold local government, national government and service providers to account, ensuring that they uphold people’s rights and deliver the services they are supposed to.

A Commissioner would be able to look at the whole life journey of autistic people. Too often people experience a cliff-edge when they become an adult, or adults who are late diagnosed simply cannot access any support. A Commissioner would also be able to create links across government departments, putting joined up thinking into practice.

In the UK there has never been a proposal for legislation like this, with such a specific focus on upholding the rights of autistic and neurodivergent people. This is an incredibly important moment and one which would see Scotland lead the way in real change.