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Suffolk County Council launches new strategy to support autistic people of all ages

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Suffolk County Council and local health boards have unveiled a joint strategy and action plan aimed at improving the lives of autistic people across the county.

Why it matters: Autistic individuals often face challenges in various aspects of life, including education, employment, and social interactions. This comprehensive strategy aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, potentially improving the quality of life for residents in Ipswich and across the county.

Cllr. Beccy Hopfensperger and Cllr. Andrew Reid holding a copy of the new strategy
Cllr. Beccy Hopfensperger and Cllr. Andrew Reid holding a copy of the new strategySuffolk County Council

The big picture: The new All-Age Autism Strategy seeks to create a more inclusive and understanding environment for autistic individuals and their families in Suffolk.

Key details:

  • The strategy was co-produced with autistic people and their families to capture diverse experiences

  • It covers support across all life stages, from childhood through adulthood

  • An accompanying action plan outlines specific steps to address priority areas

Priority areas include:

  • Increasing societal awareness and acceptance of autism

  • Enhancing community support and reducing inpatient care

  • Addressing health and care inequalities

  • Improving education access and transition to adulthood

  • Boosting employment opportunities

  • Enhancing support within justice systems

What they're saying: Cllr Beccy Hopfensperger, cabinet member for Adult Care: "I am pleased that Suffolk will have a strategy that is not only covering the whole lives of autistic people but has also been co-produced with the experiences of autistic people at its heart."

Cllr Andrew Reid, Cabinet member for Education and SEND: "I am proud that this autism strategy, and action plan, encompasses the whole life journey of a person, which includes our work to improve the outcomes of children and young people with SEND."

Lisa Nobes, Chief Nurse, NHS Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board: "The new strategy and action plan are very much welcomed and represent a significant step forward in delivering on our commitment to helping ensure those living with autism can live happy and fulfilled lives, and that their families and carers receive all the support they need."

What's next: The strategy and action plan are available on the Suffolk County Council website, with hard copies being distributed to libraries across the county.

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Mountain bike stolen from outside Anglia Retail Park restaurant

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Police are appealing for witnesses after a blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen from outside Tim Hortons in Ipswich.

The bicycle was taken between 10.20 and 10.30 on Thursday 6 March from outside the restaurant at Anglia Retail Park.

The blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen
Police are appealing for witnesses after a blue Boardman mountain bike was stolen from outside Tim Hortons in IpswichSuffolk Constabulary

Ipswich Police shared the appeal on social media, asking anyone with information to come forward.

Officers have assigned the crime reference number 37/12273/25 to the case.

Anyone who witnessed the theft or has information about the stolen blue Boardman mountain bike is asked to contact police via their online reporting system at https://orlo.uk/2zoxs or by calling 101, quoting the crime reference number.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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