Autism (policy currently under review)

The UK NSC policy on Autism screening in children

More Information

Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them. Autistic spectrum disorder is the term that is used to describe a group of disorders, including autism and Asperger syndrome. The word ‘spectrum’ is used because the characteristics of the condition vary from one person to another. Those with autism may also have a learning disability. Those who have Asperger syndrome tend to have average, or above average, intelligence, but still have difficulty making sense of the world.

» Read more about autism on NHS Choices

Policy Position

Screening should not be offered.

This policy is currently being reviewed as part of the UK NSC's regular review cycle of all policies.

The review process began in Aug 2011 and is estimated to be completed by Aug 2012.

The consultation on the expert review has now finished but you can still download the document here:

» Download the expert review for Autism (PDF document, 594KB)

The UK NSC will consider the review and any submissions made during the consultation period to reach a final policy decision. The decision will be available on this website when it is available.

Evidence Supporting the Policy

The Child Health Sub-Group of the NSC reviewed the evidence on screening for autism and decided that the introduction of screening could not be recommended to the UK NSC.

Stakeholders

The British Psychological Society
Institute of Child Health
The National Autistic Society
Royal College of General Practitioners
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
Royal College of Psychiatrists

The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.

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