Organisations supporting people with autism and learning disabilities say they’re worried over the delay in appointing a first of its kind Commissioner, who they say is needed to deliver meaningful systemic change.

Scotland was set to be the first country in the world to appoint a commissioner to champion the rights of people with learning disabilities and autism – but concerns have been raised that this is no longer a priority.

A government spokesperson has confirmed what campaigners were concerned about – that public consultation on the appointment of a commissioner has now been delayed until later this year.

The National Autistic Society Scotland and Scottish Autism has urged the Scottish government to move forward on its commitment and established a Commissioner “sooner rather than later”.

A recent report from the organisations shows many autistic people continue to wait too long for diagnosis, going without the support they need to live fulfilled lives.

The Scottish Children’s Services Coalition, along with representatives from Falkland House School, LOVE Learning, Spark of Genius and Young Foundations, all support the calls for urgent action.

In a letter to the media, the group of organisations that support vulnerable children and young people – many of whom who have autism or a learning disability – say a commissioner is vital to help people “fight their corner”.

A Learning Disability, Autism and Neurodiversity Bill – which is to contain provisions to establish a Commissioner – will not be introduced until the end of this year at the earliest.

A lived experience panel is to advise the government of pros and cons of the role. Expressions of interest to join the panel closed earlier this week.

Rob Holland, Director of the National Autistic Society Scotland, says progress in establishing this important commissioner role has been too slow:

“The commitment to establish a Commissioner for autistic people and people with a learning disability was an SNP manifesto commitment at the last election, but we’ve only inched forward and now, with the delay in the public consultation until the end of this year, there’s a very real concern that this important work is simply not being prioritised.

“The longer the delay the longer diagnosis waiting lists grow, the longer people go without the care and support they need, the longer people are stuck in hospital, and the longer children wait for support in school.”

A survey of 1,215 autistic people, family carers and professionals carried out by the organisation shows 96% support the appointment of a dedicated commissioner, but that the role must have ‘real teeth and powers’ to achieve meaningful systemic change.

A total of 58% say they need support with mental health support and 49% say they need support in education. The organisations say the Commissioner’s remit must be as wide as possible, including social security, social care, employment, and housing.

Respondents said the most important aspect of the role will be to hold local authorities and service providers to account, followed by Scottish ministers.

A Scottish government spokesperson told healthandcare.scot:

“This financial year we have allocated £46 million to improve the delivery of mental health and psychological services including CAMHS, psychological therapies, eating disorders and neurodevelopmental services.

“There will be a consultation later this year on the Learning Disability, Autism and Neurodiversity Bill – including the creation of a Commissioner.”

Read more: New lived experience panel to advise government; New Disabled Children and Young People Transition Bill; Powerful new advocate for patient safety proposed

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