Autism is a lifelong condition and there are many adults who are on the spectrum in Northern Ireland. Prevalence figures for adults are often outdated and inaccurate. Many individuals have only received a diagnosis of Autism in their adult life, as awareness of the whole spectrum increases.

There are also many adults who recognise that they have Autism traits or are Autistic but may not have a formal diagnosis.

Diagnosis

Increasingly, there are many adults who seek a formal Autism assessment to give those answers, further information and access to support. Often, the first step of this process is to visit your GP and request a referral for Autism Assessment and Diagnosis through your Health and Social Care Trust. There are also private assessment and diagnosis options available.

Services

Adults with Autism who have an accompanying Learning Disability normally have access (from age 19 on leaving Special Education Provision) to Day Care provision in an Adult Training Centre (ATC) or Day Care Centre provided by the local Health & Social Care Trust or funded voluntary agency provider. Activities are Social & Life Skills based and may include some work based experience.

Employment

There are a number of supported employment options available for Autistic Adults in NI. These services may work with an individual to help them gain skills to be ready for the workplace or help them through the recruitment period or to maintain their job role.

Autism NI provide a range of training options for employers to understand more about how they can support an employee on the spectrum and what their responsibilities are.