Autism
What is autism?
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability which affects how people communicate and interact with the world. According to the National Autistic Society, one in 100 people are on the autism spectrum and there are around 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK.
In 2021, the government launched the national strategy for autistic children, young people and adults: 2021 to 2026. It is aimed at improving the lives of autistic people and their families and carers. In June 2022, the Integrated Care System (ICS) Nottingham and Nottinghamshire all age autism strategy [PDF] was published. This document is also available as an easy read version with symbols [Word] and an easy read version without symbols [Word]. Work is currently being undertaken within the integrated care system to implement the priorities of the local strategy. Regular updates on this strategy will be added to this page.
Getting a diagnosis
NHS
The NHS has some useful advice about how you can get a diagnosis for an adult or a child.
Autism Information & Advice Service
Citizens Advice Bureau Mid Mercia provide a wide range of support for anyone in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire who are either in the process of obtaining a diagnosis or post diagnosis. The website provides a single point of access to timely, accessible, up to date information and includes:
- advice and support - a directory of support systems
- peer Support – peer mentors with lived experience offering support to anyone aged 18 and above
- Autism Alliance - space for members of the autistic community, their families, friends and carers, along with professionals to come together, share experiences of ASC and feed into the development of ASC services in Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire County
Neurodevelopmental Specialist Service
Neurodevelopmental Specialist Service (NeSS) is an autism and ADHD diagnostic service.
Support
If you think you need care and support from us, visit our care and support in Nottinghamshire page for more information. You will need to have a care and support assessment to find out if you are eligible for care and what type of support we can provide.
How to find work
The Employment Training Hub can offer support to autistic adults to get ready for paid employment.
Our i-work team can support autistic adults to find employment.
