A number of initiatives have been introduced by local authorities, educational departments, charities and government departments. Some of the most influential initiatives are outlined below:
The National Autism Plan for Children
The National Autism Plan for Children is a report, which was compiled by National Autistic Society, in conjunction with the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and was published in 2003. The plan addresses important subjects, such as the identification and diagnosis of autism, the treatment and management of the condition and early intervention protocol. The plan also contains guidelines for staff training for those who are dealing with children and adults with autistic spectrum disorders, assessment guidelines for people with signs and symptoms of autism and recommendations for treatment and therapies.
The Autism Act 2009
The Autism Act was passed last year. It had two key provisions, the first that the government would produce a detailed adult autism strategy by the end of 2010 and the second that the Health Secretary would issue guidelines for local government to support the needs of adults with autism.
The Adult Autism Strategy
The Adult Autism Strategy is due to be introduced in the near future. The aim of the plan is to enable professionals from across the public sector to work together to facilitate employment for adults with autism and to allow people with autism to live independently.
