Government to count adults with autism
Thursday, 08 May 2008 12:16
It is not known how many adults have autism
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The number of adults with autism is to be counted to help the government develop its first strategy to help people with the condition.
While it is estimated that the number of children with autism is as high as one in 100, such an accurate picture is not available for adults with autism.
The research will also gauge the specific transition needs of adults with autism and Asperger's syndrome.
It will examine the lessons and challenges in the transition to adult life and will focus on areas including mental health, social care, housing and further education needs.
The information will contribute to the adults with autism strategy, which is due to be published next year.
Care services minister Ivan Lewis admitted adults with autism and Asperger's syndrome are "too often abandoned by services with their families left to struggle alone".
He said some adults with an autism spectrum disorder are often inappropriately referred to either mental health or learning disabilities.
"We still don't know enough about autism, but we do know that left unsupported, it can have a devastating impact on those who have the condition and their families," said Mr Lewis.
"One of the key gaps in our knowledge is simple - we don't know how many people have the condition in any given area. That is why I am ordering a study to address this. "
Mark Lever, chief executive of the National Autistic Society (NAS), said the charity "warmly welcomes" the announcement.
A recent survey for the NAS found that 63 per cent of adults with autism feel they don't get enough support.
"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," Mr Lever added.
"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."