Overview

The Autism Act 2009 (England and Wales) mandates the creation of a national autism strategy and accompanying guidance for local authorities and NHS bodies to improve services for adults with autism spectrum conditions (ASC).

Description

This Act requires the Secretary of State to:

• Prepare and publish an autism strategy by April 1st, 2010, outlining how to improve services for adults with ASC.
• Issue guidance to local authorities and NHS bodies on implementing the strategy by December 31st, 2010. This guidance must cover diagnosis, identification of needs, service planning (including transition from children's to adult services), staff training, and local leadership arrangements.
• Regularly review and revise both the strategy and the guidance, consulting with relevant stakeholders before making substantial changes.

The Act also legally defines key terms like "adult," "local authority," "NHS body," and "relevant services" and clarifies that local authorities and NHS bodies must act according to the issued guidance.

Government Spending

The Act states that all expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State in implementing the Act, and any increase in sums payable under other Acts as a result of this Act, will be met from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are given.

Groups Affected

• Adults with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC): The Act aims to improve services and support available to them.
• Local Authorities: They have a duty to implement the guidance within their social services functions.
• NHS Bodies: They have a duty to implement the guidance in their functions relating to the provision of health services.
• Staff providing services to adults with ASC: The Act mandates training provisions for them.

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