PAPER E

SOCIAL SERVICES, HOUSING AND BENEFITS SELECT COMMITTEE - 5 FEBRUARY 2003

SCRUTINY SESSION ON PROVISION OF SERVICES FOR ADULTS WITH AUTISM

THE HEAD OF SELECT COMMITTEE AND BEST VALUE SUPPORT

REASON FOR SELECT COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

This scrutiny session was requested at the Select Committee’s Away Day on 6 June 2002. Members will have an opportunity to question key stakeholders, the Portfolio Holder and officers on issues concerning the provision of services for adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

For the purposes of this scrutiny session adults are defined as falling within the post-19 age group.

ACTION REQUIRED BY THE SELECT COMMITTEE

The Select Committee may wish to consider further scrutiny of services for adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

BACKGROUND

Members will be aware that the Council provides a number of services for children who are diagnosed as having Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These are primarily delivered by both the Education and Social Services Directorates. In March 2001 Social Services successfully led a bid for Government funding to help finance a 3-year Invest to Save Budget Project aimed at improving local services for children with ASD. In addition, the Autism Steering Group was established in the same year to provide wide-ranging advice and support for children and young people with ASD and their families. The provision of services and support available locally to adults with ASD is, however, less clear.

WITNESSES

Mrs Chris Partridge has been invited to attend the session to give evidence to the Select Committee. Mrs Partridge’s brother is deaf and had received support as a child through the education system. Fours years ago, however, he was diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome and support was subsequently sort from Social Services.

The Acting Head of Adult Services and the Portfolio Holder for Social Services and Housing have also been invited to attend the session to answer Members’ questions.

APPENDICES ATTACHED

None

BACKGROUND PAPERS USED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS REPORT

Social Services, Housing and Benefits Select Committee Workplan

Contact Point: Saskia Kiernan, Prinicipal Scrutiny Officer, F 823805

A DRAIN

Head of Select Committee and Best Value Support