All-age autism strategy for Oxfordshire

Overview

The all-age autism strategy sets out a shared vision for Oxfordshire. It aims to make the county a place where autistic people are respected, understood, and supported in living the lives they choose.

The strategy was developed with autistic people, parent carers, experts by experience and organisations across Oxfordshire. These include the county council, health services, education partners and community organisations. 

• All Age Autism Strategy (pdf format, 3MB)
• All Age Autism Strategy - Summary (680KB)
• All Age Autism Strategy - Easy read  (pdf format 2.8MB) 

It recognises that autistic people can face barriers in education, employment, housing, healthcare, public services and their communities. It also describes autism as a natural and valuable part of human diversity.

The strategy sets out six priority areas for improving support and inclusion across Oxfordshire:

• community awareness and acceptance
• education and the transition to adulthood
• health and care
• autism assessment and support
• housing and employment
• the criminal justice system

Action plan

An action plan will set out how partners will deliver the commitments in the strategy. It will include actions, responsibilities, timescales and measures of progress.

The Autism Improvement Board will oversee the strategy. Task and finish groups will support each priority area and report on progress. Autistic people and experts by experience will continue to help shape and review the work. 

How the strategy was developed

The strategy was co-produced with autistic people, parent carers, experts by experience and partner organisations. Their experiences helped identify the six priorities and the commitments associated with each.

The strategy includes more information about autistic experiences, neuro-affirming language and the principles that partners will follow. These include co-production, strengths-based approaches, consistent information, shared learning, rights and dignity.