Autism

Autism is a complex condition:

• people with autism have difficulties communicating, forming relationships with others and find it hard to make sense of the world around them
• autism is a spectrum disorder varying in severity and impact from individual to individual, ranging from those with no speech and severe learning disabilities to people with IQs in the average range who are able to hold down a job or start a family.  People with autism may also have unusual patterns of language development, narrow interests and engage in repetitive and sometimes challenging behaviours
• Asperger's Syndrome is a form of autism in which speech development and IQ are normal, but in which social disability can be compounded by depression and mental health problems
• some people with autism demonstrate significantly challenging behaviours; most need specialist support and care
• first identified more than 50 years ago, autism affects half a million people in the UK – tens of millions worldwide - and is one of the most common developmental disorders
• boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism than girls
• autism affects people of all racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.

Where do I go for help?
Initially you will need to contact the Referral Management Team on 01582 54 76 59. They will be able to advise you of the next steps to take. 

Luton’s strategy for helping people with autism
We have prodcued a strategy for the development and commissioning of local services and support for adults with autism. The strategy includes:

• general awareness training for all health and social care staff and specialist autism training for key staff groups
• potential development of local diagnostic services for adults with Autistic Spectrum Conditions
• Community Care Assessments for all individuals with (suspected) Autistic Spectrum Conditions who meet departmental eligibility criteria from the team most appropriately placed to meet the individuals needs (usually Learning Disability or Mental Health Team)
• development of a resource directory and services of a preventative nature either within the statutory or voluntary sector (including a specific post to support individuals on the spectrum)
• development of appropriate day opportunities and individual budgets for individuals with autistic spectrum conditions
• social skills training and support for individuals on the autistic spectrum who are seeking and entering work
• continued development of appropriate accommodation and support for individuals on the autistic spectrum

Tell us what you think
We want to hear your views. Take a look at the strategey and supporting documents below and tell us what you think by emailing Bridget.Moffat@luton.gov.uk or calling 01582 54 77 78.