A New Path Ahead
Why systemic change is the key to better lives for autistic people
Our new report makes one overriding point: that to genuinely improve lives and outcomes for autistic children, young people and adults, governments across the UK must invest in systemic change, addressing the deep barriers faced by autistic people which have been present for decades. Without this, attempts to shift public services to a needs-led approach will fail.
The report was developed with autistic young people and adults, parents/carers, leading autism researchers and clinicians, and charities.
It has been produced to inform the Independent Review into Mental Health, ADHD and Autism, and the Government’s response to the Review. However, the recommendations apply for governments across the UK.
Alongside the report, a two-page summary is available, which may be useful particularly for MPs.
Systemic change is vital not just for autistic people, but for other marginalised groups. It will improve outcomes and enable better spending of scarce public funds. We encourage MPs, advocates, charities, and others to share this message widely, both now and in the months and years ahead.