Plymouth Sutton MP Linda Gilroy has pledged her support to the National Autistic Society’s campaign for adults with autism.

She has put her name to Early Day Motion 861 which commends the National Autistic Society for its recent “I Exist” Campaign and calls upon the Government to work with local authorities and primary care trusts to provide better support for adults with autism.

The Campaign has already achieved results, as today the Government revealed a raft of new measures, thereby demonstrating a major commitment to improving the lives of thousands of adults with autism and  building towards a landmark national adult autism strategy.

Measures announced by care services minister Ivan Lewis included:

·       Research into the numbers of adults with autism;

·       Study of the support needs of young people with autism;

·       A full time autism specialist post in the department of health;

·       A training summit for health and social care professionals.

The announcement comes after the NAS I Exist campaign revealed a desperate reality where 63% of adults with autism do not have enough support with at least 1 in 3 experiencing severe mental health difficulties due to a lack of support. With 40% living at home and being almost entirely dependent on their families, the campaign report, I Exist, found a shocking 92% of parents are worried about their son or daughter’s future when they are no longer able to care for them.  

Linda Gilroy said “Autism affects numerous individuals and their families in Plymouth. It is also an issue to which I have a strong personal commitment. I am therefore delighted that the Government has responded to the National Autistic Society’s campaign in such a positive manner”.

9 May 2008