183,733 people waiting for an autism assessment in the UK!

When delivering training or presentations, many people ask me how long the waiting period for an autism diagnosis is. Today, I received information from the National Autistic Society (NAS) stating that the latest NHS data has been revealed; it is shocking (although not entirely surprising!).

As of March 2024, 183,733 people were waiting for an autism assessment in England, an increase of 39% in just one year. NAS states that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance says no one should wait more than thirteen weeks. The data shows that 87% of those waiting for an assessment have been waiting longer than the thirteen-week recommended.

A colleague of mine and fellow Oliver McGowan Trainer with the North Northamptonshire Council/Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Stefan Antrill, advised me that : “In the beginning of June, while relaxing on the Isle of Wight, I participated in two Tier 1 online sessions for the Hampshire & Isle of Wight NHS Trust. Speaking with the lead trainer, I learnt that some people down South have been waiting for an assessment for nearly seven years — seven years!”

Scandalous! Whenever I deliver a talk or training , I often finish with these four letters CIBA , “Could It Be Autism?” There are hundreds of thousands of undiagnosed autistic people in the UK. If you see someone presenting “socially inappropriate” behaviours (not a fan of this terminology!) or appearing unduly anxious or overwhelmed , Think Autism, and act accordingly. If they’re not autistic , this attitude, followed by an empathetic low arousal approach, won’t do them any harm. If they are autistic, it might make the world of difference to them! #BeKind