Andrew Miller, MP for Ellesmere Port and Neston, has helped to bring about changes which could transform local support for the thousands of people with autism.  Along with the National Autistic Society (NAS), Mr Miller has been calling for dramatic improvements in health, social care and other public services for people with autism.

Mr Miller said:

“I am delighted that the adult autism strategy has been published today (03/03/10).  The Autism Act, which became law towards the end of last year, gives the strategy legal power.  This means local authorities and NHS services who fail to provide support for people with autism will be breaking the law.

“We have got to tackle the ignorance and inequality routinely experienced by people with autism.  This vitally important strategy is the first stage and I’m delighted people with autism have won the recognition they need and deserve.  Now, I’d like to see that local services get the support they need to drive these changes and really make a difference on the ground for people affected by the condition.”

Mark Lever, chief executive of the NAS, said;

“We are delighted to have the support of Andrew Miller MP.  This long awaited strategy is the first step to ensuring adults with autism will be able to enjoy the same rights and freedoms as the rest of society.  Crucially, the strategy recognises the importance of specialist autism teams which we know are extremely successful at driving improvements in autism support.  So now the next step will be to translate the strategy into decisive action at a local level – this momentous opportunity to transform the lives of people with autism and their families must not be wasted.”

Ends
3rd March 2010