Autism diagnoses have been on the rise in the UK for several years, with recent analysis finding a substantial increase in autism prevalence rates in UK schools between 2010 and 2019. Autism affects 1–2% of the UK population, or 1 in every 100 children and 2 in every 100 adults. In accordance to the number of referrals in the system, there are around 100,000 children and 1,000,000 adults with autism in the United Kingdom.

There are further points to note with other figures highlighting the development of autism. Each year, the UK spends around £32 billion in care and lost earnings to support children and adults with autism. There are 646 State funded or non-maintained schools approved for provision type autism. Autism is 3 times more prevalent in boys than in girls. Only 21.7% of adults with autism are in any form of paid employment (Beyond Autism, 2021).

In July 2021, the Government launched The National Strategy for Autistic Children, Young People and Adults,’ which aims to support autistic children and adults through better access to education, more help to get into work, preventing avoidable admissions to healthcare settings, and training for prison staff to better support prisoners with complex needs. Funded by nearly £75 million in the first year, it aims to speed up diagnosis and improve support and care for autistic people.

The event will examine how a multi-agency approach can be used to support people with autism and their families and carers to allow them to have more possibilities to thrive in society and have better access to the help they require throughout their lives.

We have a limited number of sponsored speaking and branding opportunities available. Complete the partnership enquiry form or email [email protected] for more information.

Unable to make the date? All sessions will be recorded and available to watch on demand for 30 days after the event date.