Autistic individuals in the UK are enduring severe challenges due to a failing system, according to a new report from the National Autistic Society. Authored by autistic staff, the report highlights inequalities in health and social care, education, employment, and mental health. With autistic people dying six years earlier than the general population, the charity is urging the government to prioritise autism in its policy agenda and include autistic voices in the NHS 10-year plan.

The report calls for urgent investment in community mental health services, noting that 1,430 autistic people are in mental health hospitals in England. Only 14% of autistic adults feel there are adequate services in their area, leaving many without support. Referrals are often rejected, and individuals are bounced between fragmented services. The charity warns the new Mental Health Bill will fail without substantial investment in preventative care.

Education is another battleground, with nearly three-quarters of parents believing their autistic children’s school places do not meet their needs. Many families wait years for support or are forced into SEND Tribunals, where most cases favour parents, exposing systemic failures. Meanwhile, over 200,000 people await autism assessments, with little support before or after diagnosis.

Mel Merritt, Head of Policy and Campaigns, called the constant fight "exhausting" and urged the government to prioritise autistic people in reforms, proposing a £1.3 billion investment over 15 years to address barriers and improve support systems.