The ASD Pathway is a multi-agency iniative designed to improve services & quality of life outcomes for children whose needs are on the autistic spectrum. The Pathway aims to provdie integrated education, health and social care provision by modernising the way statutory agencies work together in partnership with families. The main components of the Pathway are Multidisciplinary assessment & diagnosis Training & information for parents/carers and professionals Signposting to other services. Pathway Assessment Team (Social Communication Clinic) comprised of a Paediatrician, Education Psychologist and Speech and Language Therapist. The team aims to produce a profile of the child’s abilities and needs, particularly in terms of social/communication development. This may or may not include confirmation of a diagnosis of ASD. Whether or not ASD is confirmed, the team will provide information on the local resources and services which can help to meet the child’s needs. A comprehensive report is shared with the family and with their consent, is also circulated to other professionals. The team will be as helpful as possible in clarifying the child’s needs to aid the family and local agencies in agreeing the appropriate provision or arrangements to meet those needs. Pathway Training and Support Team comprised of a training coordinator, two trainers, a Speech and Language Therapist and Clinical Psychologist.. The team deliver a range of courses for families The team also provides a comprehensive programme of training for professionals in Health, Education and Social Care, aiming to raise understanding and awareness of ASD across Liverpool’s services to children and families. The Autism pathway provides a variety of parent / carer workshops and training courses. These help families to understand and support their child. They are for parents / carers of children aged 0 – 19 years old. They cover a variety of topics including: • What is autism / Aspergers syndrome? • How to communicate better • Learning about play • Looking at behaviour • Eating • Sleeping • Toileting • Visual aids Some workshops are for the young people themselves. These include topics: Understanding their own diagnosis Understanding emotions Social skills Some workshops are for agencies, professionals and school staff. These include topics such as: • What is autism / Aspergers syndrome? • How to communicate better • Looking at behaviour