A long-awaited plan to improve support for neurodivergent islanders is expected to be finalised “early” this year after facing months-long delays.
The strategy – developed in partnership with Autism Jersey and other stakeholders – will be reviewed on Friday before being presented to Health Minister Tom Binet for approval, according to documents due to be presented to the Health Advisory Board this week.
It follows a consultation process launched in August which invited neurodivergent islanders, their families, and service providers to share their views via interactive workshops across parish halls and an online survey.
The strategy aims to improve support services and promote greater awareness of neurodiversity, which includes conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette’s syndrome.
Lesley Harrison, Head of Charitable Services at Autism Jersey, previously described the consultation as a “welcome development” that ensured affected individuals “have a voice and can contribute to a strategy that will influence and implement change and deliver positive outcomes”.
The three-year plan is expected to set out a range of goals, from immediate improvements with minimal costs to more long-term initiatives.
The strategy was meant to be submitted to the Health Minister for approval in September 2024.
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How could Jersey be more inclusive for neurodivergent islanders?(August 2024)
Autism assessment waitlist reduced as islanders celebrate acceptance (April 2024)
