Figures show thousands face lengthy wait for autism diagnosis

The Upper Bann DUP MLA said: “A response back from the Health Minister confirms that there are over 11,000 children awaiting initial assessment for autism, with waits extending up to four and a half years. More than 3,000 adults are also awaiting assessment with over 62 per cent having already waited more than a year.

"It is unacceptable that individuals and their families are having to wait as long as they currently do, with all the uncertainty that causes. It is only when diagnosis is confirmed that individuals can take the next steps and begin to access support."

She added: "I await with interest the statistics from the Minister for individual Trusts to see if the picture varies across different parts of Northern Ireland. Officials cannot claim that they have been caught by surprise that demand for these services has been increasing.

"It is essential that a Lead for Adult Autism provision in Northern Ireland is appointed without further delay. This is not an optional area for investment. There are legislative requirements on the Department with the Assembly having passed autism legislation in both 2011 and 2022.

"Much of the Autism Amendment Act 2022 still needs to be implemented including early intervention services, support for adults and a training programme. An Autism Reviewer to provide independent scrutiny as legislated for by the last Assembly also still has to be recruited”.