Who we are Karen Malone – Bedford Borough Council Amy Kay – Luton Borough Council Jane Leek – Central Bedfordshire Council

What is the Self Assessment Framework for Autism and what does it do? Its about collecting data and information on all the services that people with Autism use in Bedfordshire. And using this information to better understand and plan for services in the future that will meet your health and social care needs.

What information is collected? Information around how we plan the services that you use for example how we use the Autism Act 2009. Making sure frontline staff are trained specifically in working with people with Autism. Information about how many people are using NHS and social care services and the level of support being provided. Information about how we work with other agencies including Bedfordshire Police and Employment Services.

Diagnosis There is an assessment and diagnostic service that your GP can refer you to. This service is provided by East London NHS Trust and is based at the Clinical Resource Centre which is in Bedfordshire. It can take up to 18 weeks before you are seen due to the high level of demand for the service. The service follows up by helping people to access the most appropriate support service e.g. health, social care or support groups such as those provided by Autism Bedfordshire.

Care and Support Everyone with Autism can receive information and advice. People with greater needs may get support, for example, to gain skills and take part in social activities. Autism Bedfordshire has a dedicated helpline you can ring (01234 350704) for information, advice and guidance. If you need assistance to make your needs and wishes known, an advocate can be chosen to help you. Your family and friends (carers) who support you can also receive help if they need it.

Staff Training The SAF asks us to report on: The local authority training plan The staff who have Autism training available to them Are people that have Autism or their families included in the design of the training? Does the CCG and healthcare providers give training to staff? Do the Police, Probation and Courts give training to staff?

People’s Experience The SAF asks us some questions about people’s experience: This was to give an impression of the types of experience people with Autism have in relation to everyday situations and public services. To illustrate the way services help or hinder people who experience the world with Autism.

Recommendations Using this information to better understand and plan for services in the future that will meet your health and social care needs. Strategy Action Plan More consideration in some areas to support for people who have Autism without a Learning Disability Increased developments for specialist Autism support for people over 65, Women and BME groups.

Thank you, any questions?