It has been announced by Liberal Democrat care and support minster Norman Lamb that Autism Projects across the country will receive a £1.2 million boost to help support adults with autism.

As part of the government’s initiative to make improvements to care standards for people with autism, 42 pioneering projects will be the benefactor of the funding. The schemes will use the funds to test new ways of supporting adults with autism, including in areas such as crisis prevention work and help with securing employment. The plan is for the projects to then be evaluated next summer.

When commenting on the funding boosts for the projects, Norman Lamb said:

“I am delighted that we have been able to contribute funding for the excellent work that these projects carry out.

“We want to ensure that young people and adults with autism have the right support and opportunities to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.”

Following the investment boost, all local authorities will now be able to apply for funding to help make their community areas more autism-friendly. It is thought that this £18,500 could be used to improve or refurbish areas such as quiet rooms or buy electronic equipment which could benefit people with autism.