A report providing the Committee of the progress of delivery against the Year 3 (2024/25) All Age Autism Strategy Action Plan across Reading.

The Committee received an update on the progress made in Year 3 of the All Age Autism Strategy Action Plan across Reading. The report highlighted achievements across all seven strategic priorities and outlined the contributions of partner agencies through the Autism Partnership Board.

The Committee were informed that the Action Plan, although unfunded, had been delivered within existing resources. Progress was noted across all workstreams, including autism training, early years and education support, transitions to adulthood, employment and vocational support, healthcare, supported living, criminal justice, and family and carer support.

The report outlined the importance of inclusive education, early intervention, and the need for continued focus on transitions and post-16 support. Also noted were the challenges posed by budget constraints and the importance of co-production with autistic people and their families.

Members discussed the report and noted that 63% of Reading schools had received training from Award in Education and Training (AET). The Committee were informed that the aim was for all schools to receive the training but due to timetabling this had not yet been completed. It was suggested that training could be delivered in partnership with Reading University for student teachers, and this would be investigated.

Resolved -   That the progress made in Year 3 (2024/2025) of the All Age Autism Strategy Action Plan be noted.