The Scottish Strategy for Autism Progress Report - Foundation Stage (2 Years)

Autism Network Scotland ('the Network')

In line with recommendation 15 and supported by funding from the Scottish Government, the Network supports the strategy recommendations by hosting and maintaining the Scottish Strategy for Autism website and it serves as a reliable information hub for individuals, families, carers and professionals. It creates opportunities for sharing knowledge and information through its virtual forums and networks, and supports organisations in responding to gaps in knowledge and understanding, service provision, professional development and research. The Network also serves as a catalyst for sharing examples of good practice amongst professionals.

Members of the Network are also active on the ASD Reference group and Subgroups, and Network advisors have worked as part of the Strategy's wider initiatives, including the Autism Toolbox and the Mapping Project.

Furthermore, the Network has hosted and facilitated a series of valuable learning events in support of the Strategy for example:

- an event to launch both the autism strategy and the network websites
- a series of events, in conjunction with the autism Mapping Project team, aimed at gathering opinions and experiences of people working to improve the lives of people with autism around the country
- a 'tackling transitions' seminar which enabled practitioners to come together to problem solve and share experiences with professionals from a wide range of disciplines
- an event for Local Authorities to support them in development of their autism Action Plans/Strategies
- an employment seminar to showcase employment success stories and launch Subgroup 4's 'employment guide'
- a series of early years network events
- social work network event
- education network
- understanding behaviour learning events
- supported charities in hosting events (NAS growing old with autism)
- showcase development fund projects

The Network have also been instrumental in developing an event to launch the Menu of Interventions Guide, which will include a series of road shows across Scotland, and are planning a second Transitions event in the summer of 2014.

This contributes to goals 1,2,3 and 4 of by improving knowledge, allowing opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing and by showcasing examples of good autism practice and successful co-production.

You can access a copy of the Network's first annual report here:
http://www.autismstrategyscotland.org.uk/news/autism-network-scotland-publish-their-first-annual-report.html