Section 3 Methodology of the autism strategy:
Amends the 2011 Act by inserting a new section on the methodology required for the preparation of the autism strategy. The strategy must reflect best international practice. The strategy must recognise the fact that autistic people have individualised needs. There must be regional consistency across Northern Ireland in the approach to autism. Finally, the strategy must contain hard targets, and these targets can be used to measure whether or not the strategy has been successful.
In addition to the general obligation to consult widely in making this strategy, section 3 also includes a specific obligation to consult organisations working in this area when it comes to setting those measurable targets.