The Autism Strategy

Content of the autism strategy
3
1
The autism strategy must set out how the needs of persons with autism are to be addressed throughout their lives.
2
Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1) the needs to be set out in the autism strategy shall include the health care, educational and social needs of persons with autism.
3
The autism strategy must set out how the needs of families and carers of persons with autism are to be addressed.
4
The autism strategy must set out the Department's proposals for promoting an autism awareness campaign.
4A
The autism strategy must set out how training (including accredited training) is to be provided to the staff of Northern Ireland departments and other public bodies on how to best address the needs of—
a
persons with autism, and
b
the families and carers of persons with autism.
4B
The autism strategy must set out how the Department is to make provision for an autism support and early intervention service.
4C
The autism strategy must set out how the Department is to make provision for an autism information service which is accessible (both in person and remotely) by—
a
persons with autism,
b
the families and carers of persons with autism, and
c
professionals working with persons with autism, and their families and carers.
4D
The autism strategy must set out how the needs of adults with autism will be addressed, including in particular their needs in respect of—
a
lifelong learning,
b
employment support,
c
recreation,
d
physical health,
e
emotional and mental well-being,
f
supported living, and
g
housing.
4E
The autism strategy must set out how the Department will reduce waiting times for autism assessment and treatment services provided by HSC trusts.
5
The Department may make regulations as regards the content of the autism strategy.
6
No regulation may be made under this section unless a draft of the regulation has been laid before, and approved by resolution of, the Assembly.
7
Before making a regulation under this section the Department must consult the Northern Ireland departments and other such persons as the Department thinks appropriate.
S. 3(4A)-(4E) inserted (27.7.2022) by Autism (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (c. 13), ss. 2, 7