Autism is a complex condition which affects many people in very different ways. In recent times, great progress has been made in improving our understanding of autism. However, I believe there is much more work to be done, and I am pleased to see that there are efforts being made across government and throughout society to support those with autism.

I welcome the recent announcement that the National Autism Strategy, first established in 2010, will be reviewed, and was consulted on earlier this year. My colleagues in the Department of Health and Social Care requested that autistic people of all ages, their families, their carers, and organisations and professionals that provide care and support to autistic people or work with autistic people submit evidence - you can find more information by following the link below:
 
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/review-of-the-national-autism-strategy-think-autism-call-for-evidence
 
The evidence provided is currently being analysed.
 
Separately, a consultation was held around the training and development staff need to better support people with a learning disability or autistic people. You can find more information about this consultation, the results of which are being considered, here:
 
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/learning-disability-and-autism-training-for-health-and-care-staff
 
These consultations will help to ensure that the people are receiving the care that they should be, and that this care is properly implemented throughout the health and care workforce.
 
I hope I have been able to offer you some reassurance that the Government is implementing significant measures to support people with autism, and thank you again for taking the time to contact me.