Autism is a complex condition which affects many people in very different ways. In recent times, great progress has been made in improving our understanding of autism. However, I believe there is much more work to be done, and I am pleased to see that there are efforts being made across government and throughout society to support those with autism.
 
I am pleased to say that my ministerial colleagues are continuing to build on the advances made since the establishment of the Autism Act in 2009. For example, the National Autism Strategy, first established in 2010, will be reviewed, and is currently undergoing consultation. My colleagues in the Department of Health and Social Care have requested that autistic people of all ages, their families, their carers, and organisations and professionals that provide care and support to autistic people or work with autistic people submit evidence - you can find more information by following the link below:
 
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/review-of-the-national-autism-strategy-think-autism-call-for-evidence 
 
This consultation will help to ensure that the people are receiving the care that they should be and that this care is properly implemented throughout the health and care workforce. 
 
I am also encouraged to note that the Department for Work and Pensions is developing plans to help 1 million more people with a range of disabilities into work, and I know that all staff at job centres, and those conducting work capability assessments receive extensive training to support people with autism on their journey into work.
 
I know that many constituents are concerned about the treatment of autistic people in the criminal justice system. My colleagues at the Ministry of Justice and Home Office are developing a guide to help police officers and prison staff identify people with autism and treat them appropriately, and to date, eight prisons and young offenders' institutes are part of the criminal justice accreditation scheme, which is driving forward new ways of supporting people with autism in these institutions.