Following intervention from Conservative councillor for Belmont, Jane Pascoe, it has been confirmed that the South West London and St George’s Mental Health Trust have dropped proposals to limit access to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) services. Jane has discovered that the Sutton CCG had neither discussed nor agreed formally any changes to the current system with the Trusts, and has secured a meeting to discuss the issues with all involved parties.
Jane said: "‘There must be full consultation with stakeholders on any review of pathways with local authorities and NHS commissioners to ensure there is the right access to both educational assessment and therapeutic support for children with the whole spectrum of ASD conditions.
"While there is clearly pressure on the capacity of CAMHS to deal with the burgeoning need for diagnosis, these ill-considered proposals are not the way forward,’ said Jane. ‘Children considered not to have associated mental health issues would be excluded from diagnosis services, with the consequence that they would not be able to access ASD support services. That is totally unacceptable.
"Families across south west London and our local area have been plunged into uncertainty by these ill-considered proposals. I will work tirelessly to ensure that autism diagnosis and support services remain available to all those who need help."
While full details of the format of the meeting with the CCG on 29 June have not yet been established, Jane expects both Sutton Council and Sutton CCG to be fully involved in discussions, and to open consultation to a wide range of stakeholders, including autism support groups and schools.
"I have requested that this issue is also brought to the next meeting of the Sutton Health and Wellbeing Board on 19 June, which is open to the public."
The HWBB meeting is scheduled for 6pm at the Civic Offices on Monday 19 June.
For further information please contact Jane on [email protected].
Cllr Jane Pascoe
Conservative councillor for Belmont and the opposition lead for Families, Children & Education