By Luke Beardon, PgCert course leader, autism studies

In 2009 the first ever disability- specific act committed the government to set out an autism strategy to meet the needs of adults with autism. On 3 March 2010 the strategy was published. The Autism Centre at Sheffield Hallam University was well ahead of the game. Back in 2007 it played an integral role of the publication of the Aspect Consultancy Report, feeding back on a huge consultation on the needs of adults with Asperger syndrome. The Postgraduate Certificate in Asperger Syndrome and the Masters in Autism awards both included materials specific to the needs to adults.

The strategy set out five targets summarised as

• increasing awareness and understanding of autism
• developing a clear and consistent pathway for diagnosis
• improving access to the services and support people need to live independently within the community employment
• enabling local partners to develop relevant services to meet identified needs and priorities

Statutory guidance followed the act, which places a legal responsibility on local authorities, the NHS and NHS trust and dictates that they

• should provide autism awareness training for all staff
• must provide specialist autism training for key staff, such as GPs and community care assessors
• cannot refuse a community care assessment for adults with autism based solely on IQ
• must appoint an autism lead in their area
• have to develop a clear pathway to diagnosis and assessment for adults with autism
• need to commission services based on adequate population data

Much of the above is fully supported by the Autism Centre. Our recently validated awards now include a seminal module entitled 'autism: policy and practice' which is designed to help students better understand legislation, policy, strategy and duties, and to be effective critical analysts in ascertaining the potential impact on individuals and their families. Our consultancy service and training programmes also work very well in line with the statutory guidance.

As yet, it remains to be seen what the impact this extraordinary act and guidance will have on the community. What is clear from the perspective of the Autism Centre is that we will continue to work with our students, professionals and within the community to push forward good practice and disseminate expertise as best we can.

Visit the Autism Centre website for more information and to find out about our work. You can also subscribe to our blog to receive regular information about autism-related events.