Autism is a lifelong neuro-developmental condition that affects how people perceive, communicate, and interact with the world. Whether people find out they are autistic as a child, young person, or adult, being autistic is often an important part of a person’s identity for the whole of their lives. We have heard examples of children and young people being diagnosed with autism and then parent carers also being diagnosed or self – identifying as autistic later.
Since the introduction of the Autism Act 2009, we have seen improvements in support for autistic adults and young people across North Yorkshire, as well as a greater awareness of autism in society. Despite these advances, we recognise that more work is needed to be done to improve autistic people’s lives in North Yorkshire. The strategy aims to respond to the National strategy for autistic children, young people and adults: 2021 to 2026 and respond to the feedback from the engagement and consultation events for the North Yorkshire autistic community. Autistic people’s experiences have been the driving force behind the strategy. We’ve collaborated with autistic individuals, families, carers, the voluntary community sector and public sector partners to create it. We as the North Yorkshire Autism group of partners are committed to the delivery of the strategy. We realise to achieve our vision will require time, determination and dedication. Therefore, we will work with autistic people to improve their experiences and outcomes. We look forward to the challenge and hope they will keep us accountable as we strive to make a positive impact. By working together, we will “enable autistic people, carers and their families to enjoy full, happy and healthy lives.
On Monday 31 March 2025, the partnership officially launched the strategy. The partners, including individuals with lived experience, acknowledge that the journey is ongoing. The strategy presents a high-level vision and identifies eight priority areas with ambitious goals for North Yorkshire, while also recognising the broader national challenges in supporting autistic individuals.
Download the North Yorkshire Autism all age strategy 2025 to 2030 here
National strategy for autistic children, young people and adults: 2021 to 2026
The government’s national strategy for improving the lives of autistic people and their families and carers in England, and implementation plan for 2021 to 2022.
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020
The North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020 'The changing landscape of autism in North Yorkshire' describes the work that will take place to change support, guidance and information for people with autism and their families in North Yorkshire. You can download the strategy and related documents below:
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020 (made simple)
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020 (policy framework)
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020 (easy read)
North Yorkshire autism strategy 2015-2020 (you said, we did)
Useful information
Specialist and complex services provide highly specialised and personalised support for people who are living with profound learning disabilities, Autism, functional mental health conditions or physical disabilities.
Market Position Statement and Strategic Market Development Plan
