The States of Guernsey’s Autism Steering Group is seeking feedback from autistic individuals and the public as a whole as they try to improve services.

The Guernsey Autism Framework was introduced nine years ago as part of the Disability and Inclusion Strategy. It aimed to improve the lives of autistic people in Guernsey by providing better services. The framework was inspired by successful strategies from other regions, like Jersey and Scotland. 

Some of those recommendations are already in place, such as the establishment of an Autism Steering Group, the creation of specific roles (such as the Autism Lead and Transition Coordinator), and improved diagnostic processes across services for both adults and children.

However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic and an increase in demand for services, some recommendations are yet to materialise.

A working group was formed in December 2023, bringing together representatives from different sectors, including the third sector and Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) services.

Their work includes gauging the public’s view when looking at potential improvements to services, and to make sure the original recommendations from laws passed in 2016 are still relevant and effective.

Sian Ogier, Associate Director, Specialist Mental Health and Adult Disability Services, said they know there is lots to improve on so the work has to start somewhere.

“The Steering Group acknowledges there is still work to be done to improve the lives of autistic people in the Bailiwick of Guernsey. We aim to address any recommendations that have not yet been achieved and to ensure that service users, families and carers have a platform where concerns can be raised.

“There has been a significant increase in the diagnosis of autism across the island and, subsequently, a growing need for assessment and pre and post diagnostic support. We know diagnosis, while important to people, is not the only thing that matters and want to support people before, during and after the assessment process, whether they receive a diagnosis or not.

“We would like to gain a better understanding through this survey of what you think is already working well and what we need to do to improve the current provision provided, while also taking into consideration the current financial climate and limited resources available.”

The survey is available HERE. It’s open until 5 March, and can be answered anonymously.