Robert Halfon MP with (left to right) Tom Madders, from the National Autistic Society, Sam Fancett, Wendy Merry, Kath Recontre and June Fleming, all from PACT Harlow
I was delighted to be joined by representatives from the Harlow-based PACT for Autism group at the launch in Parliament of a new report into the reform of the Special Educational Needs system for children with autism.
This follows research in which 84 per cent of respondents said teachers are not given enough training to support children with autism effectively.
The report by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Autism (APPGA) proposes that:
* Every school has a lead teacher for autism
* All children and young people with autism and special educational needs (SEN) have an action plan (including those without Statements or the proposed Education, Health and Care Plans)
* There is meaningful support for all young people with autism and SEN up to 25 years, including those not in further education.
Children's Minister Sarah Teather MP said: “I welcome the APPG for Autism’s report. It is based on a serious inquiry, which involved young people and their parents and took evidence from a wide range of people, in keeping with the spirit of our special educational needs and disability reforms.
“I am considering all aspects of the report and welcome the ongoing contribution of individuals, parents and organisations from the sector.
“I am pleased to say that action on some of its key recommendations is already being taken''.
The launch was attended byMPs, Peers and educational professionals as well as parents of children with autism.
This report offers essential recommendations to the Government on getting the system right for children and young people with autism.
I hope the Government implement it fully in their reforms to the special educational needs system.
Currently, too many families have to fight to have their children's needs met at school and beyond. The changes must ensure that more children and young adults with autism in Harlow have access to the most appropriate education and post-16 support for their needs, which sets them up for the rest of their lives.
For a copy of the report email appga@nas.org.uk
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