A new strategy which will address the needs of adults with Autism in Newham will be launched on Thursday.

It will set out Newham Council’s vision for supporting adults affected by Autism and their carers. It has been developed following on from the Autism Act of 2009 and the National Strategy ‘Rewarding and Fulfilling Lives’ which were brought in by the Government in response to an identified gap in provision for adults.

The strategy has been developed in partnership with people with autism, the Newham Clinical Commissioning Group, health partners, parents, voluntary organisations, charities, education providers, and the National Autistic Society (Newham Branch).

It aims to improve the lives of those living with autism by increasing awareness and understanding of autism, developing a clear, consistent pathway, improving access for adults with autism to services and support and helping adults with autism into employment.

Newham residents have also played an important part in the development of this strategy by sharing their ideas and views through consultation events.

They have provided feedback on their needs and how they could be addressed through service improvements. The strategy addresses these issues and builds on improvements which have been made in services and support for people with autism in Newham in the recent years.

Councillor Neil Wilson – Executive Member for Equalities and Social Inclusion at Newham Council said: “We want to ensure that a good level of advice and support is available for adults with autism, their families and carers in Newham. This strategy represents a major step forward in terms of support and care for people living with Autism across Newham.

“We’ve worked very closely with residents and partners to develop the strategy and I’m confident we now have a framework that will improve the support to adults with Autism in Newham.”

The launch takes place on Thursday between 10.30am to 3pm at St Marks Community Centre in Tollgate Road, Beckton.