What needs to be done and why?
Strategic Issue 1
What needs to be done
Ensure timely access to diagnostic services and support to families and people with Autism following diagnosis. Create clear pathways for support following diagnosis to ongoing support. This follows the National Autism Strategy for 2021-2026.
Why
Data shows the number of individuals in the Borough diagnosed with ASD will increase. Access to services and clear pathways should be developed to support future need.
Survey respondents to the Big Conversation highlighted the need for “Support for children with ASD without developmental delay who cannot cope with school but equally can’t cope with the noisy/unpredictable environment often found in the alternative provision. Nothing exists for these children who are often thought to be fine due to their good academic performance except Home Education.” Survey respondent (is there anything missing from priorities).
NHS England highlight that for all-age autism pathways there should be equity of access, improvements to quality and consistency of services and a reduction in diagnostic waiting times. NICE advises there should be timely referral from GPs and mental health services with multidisciplinary teams for assessment. Care should be person-centred.
Strategic Issue 2
What needs to be done
Raise awareness of Autism and promote autism friendly services to influence local change. Encourage services to consider their services and how they impact those with ASD.
Improve information, advice and guidance so individuals know where to look for activities and support.
Why
Data shows the number of individuals in the Borough diagnosed with ASD will increase, promoting an inclusive local environment is important for the wellbeing of those with ASD.
A survey respondent to the Big Conversation: “People with autism need more of a voice and a say in how services are planned and delivered…” Face to face respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live).
NHS suggests a digital flag across services to share adjustments needed for individuals and appropriate training (Oliver McGowan training) for staff. The Department for Health & Social Care alongside the Department for Education highlights the priority of improving public understanding of autism and emphasises autism-friendly environments in public services.
Strategic Issue 3
What needs to be done
Staff, services and commissioners should ensure the needs of those with ASD are reflected in future strategies and plans. Plans should anticipate life transitions.
Staff should be aware of sensitivities and equality and diversity. Communication should be effective and consider sensory issues.
Invest in technology to increase and maintain independence.
Why
Data shows the number of individuals in the Borough diagnosed with ASD will increase. It is important to reflect the needs of those with ASD in strategies and plans to ensure they are appropriate and functional.
A respondent to the Big Conversation: “People with autism need more of a voice and a say in how services are planned and delivered… Council staff need more and better autism awareness training, especially on frontline services. Social care support for autism is poor… Also employers need to be more open to employing autistic people, saying you are disability confident is not enough, you need to be welcoming autistic people and the council should encourage other employers to do this… Other local authorities like Peterlee commission the North East Autism Society to provide employment support for autistic people, why is this not available in Hartlepool?” Face to face respondent (what would make Hartlepool a better place to live).
The NHS emphasises co-production in designing services, encouraging the involvement of autistic people in service planning, evaluation and workforce training. The National Autistic Society have developed a network of staff and autistic individuals to embed co-production in service improvement. This strategy could be developed locally.