The strategy provides a framework for cross-government action on autism over the next 18 months, and seeks to complement wider disability policy, including the forthcoming National Disability Strategy, by focusing on areas where there are bespoke needs for autistic people.
The objective of the strategy is to identify and deliver tangible solutions to address the challenges faced by autistic people across Ireland. It contains 83 actions across the following four pillars:
- Autism-affirming society
- Equality of access to public services
- Accessible, inclusive communities
- Building capacity
The strategy was developed following consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including people with autism. The NDA contributed to both the 2022 and 2024 public consultations, providing submissions to both. The NDA has also been assigned responsibility for implementing several actions under the strategy, covering a range of areas, including data, justice, research, universal design and employment.
The Autism Innovation Strategy Oversight and Advisory Group, a stakeholder group which is majority neurodivergent, will play a key role in monitoring the implementation of the strategy. The Autism Innovation Strategy Steering Committee, chaired by the Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability, and comprising representatives from relevant Government Departments and statutory agencies as well as from the Oversight and Advisory Group, will oversee implementation of the strategy.
The Autism Innovation Strategy can be accessed here.