Supporting people with autism in health and social care settings involves laws, guidelines, and best practices. These elements work together to make sure individuals’ needs are met with understanding and effectiveness.
Here’s an outline of how legislation and guidance can be used to support individuals with autism:
Legislation
- The Autism Act 2009 (England): This was the first law in the UK specifically about autism. It requires the government to create a strategy for adults with autism, leading to guidance for local authorities and NHS bodies on improving diagnosis, assessment, and services.
- The Equality Act 2010: This important law prevents discrimination at work and in society. For those with autism, it means public services and employers must adjust things as needed to help them access services and be included.
- The Health and Social Care Act 2012: This act changes how health and social care services are set up and given out by focusing on what individuals need, including those with autism.
- The Children and Families Act 2014: It talks about support for children and young people who have special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), like autism. It introduces plans that cover education, health, and social care needs together.
- The Mental Health Act 1983 (and its updates in 2007): This is important for people with autism who might also have mental health issues because it makes sure they can get proper treatment when necessary.
- The Care Act 2014 (England): It outlines what local authorities must do regarding care for adults with any disability, including those with autism—focusing on promoting well-being preventing care needs from arising whenever possible.
Guidance
- NICE Guidance: The National Institute for Health & Care Excellence offers advice on managing support across all ages of autistic individuals—for instance; guideline CG142 covers adult management involving diagnosis assessments to interventions.
- Statutory Guidance following Autism Acts: After the Autism Acts were passed,the government gave detailed instructions so local authorities know how they should help adults living under this condition.This includes staff training,strategic planning,and providing relevant services.
- Think Autism Strategy: An update setting clear goals showing how communities & departments should collaborate enhancing life quality outcomes among autistic adults.
- SEND Code of Practice: A guide helping professionals identify assesses provide suitable educational environments meeting special educational requirements among children & young ones ensuring conducive learning atmospheres
