Further to WQ90304-5, how will the Minister ensure that the unknown number of children awaiting an autism diagnosis following referral to an NHS neurodivergence pathway have access to the educational ALN support they need, and that ALN funding is adequate to meet the needs of this cohort?
An autism diagnosis is not required for a decision on a learner’s ALN.
The learner’s needs and additional learning provision should be identified using the person-centred practice approach and should not be delayed whilst awaiting an assessment or diagnosis.
Delivering the ALN reforms is a key priority for this government which is why I have ensured we have protected ALN funding and prioritised £56.3 million investment for ALN in 2024-25.