Written question asked by Lord Lester of Herne Hill (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Earl Howe (Conservative) on Thursday, 31 March 2011.

Autism

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government what progress they have made on the implementation of the Autism Strategy and the application of the disability equality duty in relation to autism.

Answer: We have always made clear this Government's commitment to Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives: A Strategy for Adults with Autism in England (3 March 2010). On 17 December 2010, the Government launched new statutory guidance on autism for health and social care, Implementing Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives. The guidance focuses on areas where health and social care bodies can change the way they support adults with autism; increasing understanding of autism among staff; strengthening diagnosis and assessment of needs; improving transition support for young people with autism; and ensuring adults with autism are included within local service planning. The statutory guidance also informs local authorities of the requirements of the disability equality duty and the need to pay due regard to disability issues when carrying out their functions. Responsibility lies with local service planners, commissioners and providers when identifying where improvements need to be made locally to transform the lives of people with autism.

Secondary information