Autistic people, their families and carers, and professionals working with autistic people are being invited to help West Sussex County Council make the county a better place for those with lived experiences of autism.
The council has launched a consultation, including online surveys and in-person workshops, to gather information about people’s needs and their quality of life.
The findings will help inform a new autism strategy that aims to improve services and support for autistic adults and children across West Sussex.
Councillor Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Learning and Skills, said: “A significant part of how we can address challenges faced by autistic people is by increasing our awareness, understanding their needs and tailoring support to make it accessible to all.
“By taking part in our ‘Autism All Ages’ survey and consultation, you will be directly contributing to improving people’s lives in West Sussex and help them achieve their potential.”
Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, Councillor Amanda Jupp, added: “Our ambition is to provide seamless lifelong services for autistic children, young people and adults, with effective transitions between services where necessary.
“Feedback from people with lived experience of autism will help us identify areas where realistic improvements can be made to public and community services. These could include changing practices, working together more effectively, or using existing resources in a smarter way.”
The consultation is open from 14 October to 16 December. Please see our webpage or go to the West Sussex County Council website for more information about the consultation and how to take part. There you will also find links to the three unique online surveys which ask people to share their experiences and views.
The surveys are open for autistic people, families and carers of autistic people, and professionals working for services that offer bespoke support.
The consultation findings will be analysed and then used to co-produce a new Autism All Ages strategy. There will be further consultation on the proposed strategy once it is drafted, prior to a final agreement estimated for early Summer 2025.
