A New Report on Systemic Change – Autism Alliance UK

A new report on systemic change

Rising autism diagnosis rates have been the subject of debate across policy and public affairs. The Government in England has commissioned an Independent Review to explore the factors behind rising diagnosis, across autism, ADHD, and mental health conditions. At a time of intense pressure on public resources, and with stigmatising narratives circulating about ‘overdiagnosis’, there is a risk that once again, policy fails autistic children, young people, and adults, and their families.

At these times, it is vital to have clear sight of the big picture.

For decades, autistic people have faced systemic barriers across society and services. These barriers have not gone away, and autistic children, young people and adults continue to experience some of the greatest harms of any group.

In the policy world there is interest in ‘strengths and needs assessment’ as a way of improving outcomes and avoiding diagnosis being used to restrict access to services, as is currently the case. But without addressing systemic barriers, any move towards ‘needs-led’ services is likely to fail.