Adults with autism: People's experiences of the autism assessment process in Gloucestershire
Since COVID-19, Gloucestershire’s autism assessment service has experienced a 77% increase in referrals. The current service cannot keep up with demand and waiting times are now on average 3.2 years.
Summary
Adults seeking support for autism in Gloucestershire shared their stories with us to raise awareness of the challenges they face trying to understand and manage the condition, and to help us identify how the autism assessment service could provide better care and support.
Key findings
- People told us that waiting times for assessment have increased significantly.
- They find the assessment process difficult to understand and navigate.
- There is little or no support provided while people wait to be assessed, or afterwards.
- People also commented on a lack of awareness and training about women with autism.
Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust have acknowledged people’s concerns and apologised for the long waiting times. They welcomed our recommendations and will use the public feedback presented in our report to guide service improvements.
Downloads
If you need this report in a different format, please email info@healthwatchgloucestershire.co.uk or call 0800 652 5193 .
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