University of Leicester to lead audit of adults with autism

Mark Lever, chief executive of The National Autistic Society said: "We warmly welcome today's announcement from the Department of Health. Through our I Exist report, adults with autism told us they feel isolated and ignored, we are therefore delighted that the government has listened and is taking action . The Government has committed to establishing an autism specialist post and to undertake research into the number of adults with autism. We hope this will mark a turning point in the way that the needs of people with autism are recognised and met."

CONTACTS: For more information, contact Professor Brugha at 0116 258 4395.

Notes to Editors

1. The transitions research will focus on young peoples' experiences, including their mental health needs, their social care and housing needs, further education needs, opportunities for leisure and access to transport, and the ease of access to services. Transition planning was highlighted in the Children and Maternities National Service Framework and we wish to identify good practice as well as barriers experienced in accessing provision.

2. For both parts of this research, the teams to bring together a number of researchers and practitioners who are highly eminent in the field of autism and who have already made a substantial contribution to our understanding and treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs).

3. The announcement comes after the NAS I Exist campaign revealed a desperate reality where 63% of a small group of adults known to have autism do not have enough support, with at least 1 in experiencing severe mental health difficulties due to a lack of support. With 40% living at home and being almost entirely dependent on their families, the campaign report, I Exist, found a shocking 92% of parents are worried about their son or daughter’s future when they are no longer able to care for them.

Useful links:

DoH press Release: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=366876&NewsAreaID=2

National Autistic Society Press Release: http://www.nas.org.uk/nas/jsp/polopoly.jsp?d=824&a=16356