Agenda item

It was explained that members of the Healthier Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee had been invited to attend and contribute to the discussion for the item under consideration.

Councillor Wyn Thomas, Cabinet Member for Schools, Lifelong Learning and Skills explained that the purpose of the report was to provide information on the current pathway to a diagnosis of autism, the challenges and how the Schools Services was meeting the needs of children and young people who have or were awaiting a diagnosis. It was highlighted that autism was a lifelong condition and symptoms differed from one person to another. 

Angharad Behnan, Principal Educational Psychologist provided a presentation to members outlining the following:

·       Background

·       Change

·       Current situation

·       Impact on children and young people in Ceredigion schools

·       Support for schools

·       Wider local authority support for families, children and young people

·       Next steps

Members asked many questions relating to their area of interest which were answered in turn by Officers. The main points raised were as follows:

·       It was emphasised that a diagnosis of autism did not affect children and young people’s educational provision in Ceredigion, and rather, support was put in place immediately if any symptoms of autism were identified.

·       SCAT team meet every 6 weeks to discuss referrals; health leads the work as they are the only body able to provide a diagnosis of autism. A cautious approach was key to ensuring the correct diagnosis was given to each child and young person.

·       Referrals should be undertaken by a GP or School Nurse.

·       70% of Ceredigion’s schools have Autism Awareness Certificates and Champions (list to be shared with members in due course).

·       Concerns were raised with the NHS’s long waiting lists; members were encouraged to raise this at any given opportunity. It was noted that Welsh Government (WG) had recently undertaken a Capacity Review where it was identified that health boards nationally were struggling with assessments and so, there had been a pledge for additional funding.

·       The importance of inclusivity was raised to ensure each child and young person had an equal opportunity to access mainstream education in the first instance. If not suitable, specialists’ units were located on some school campuses and the proximity enabled children and young people to access mainstream lessons where necessary.

Following questions from the floor, it was AGREED to note the following:   

1.    To be informed on the current referral pathway to a diagnosis of autism in Ceredigion.

2.    To be informed on how the Schools Services is meeting the needs of children who have or who are waiting for a diagnosis.