Question reference: S5W-34006
- Asked by: Richard Leonard, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 11 December 2020
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Current status: Answered by Clare Haughey on 12 January 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what analysis it has undertaken of the impact of COVID-19 on people with autism.
Answer
The Scottish Government continues to be committed to improving the lives of autistic people in Scotland. We recognise autistic people have faced and responded to a wider range of challenges than the general population. That’s why we have been working closely with autism and learning disability organisations to address emerging COVID-19 issues. In response to this the Scottish Government and COSLA are developing a joint plan for recovery and transformation which will detail our priorities coming out of the pandemic.
This draft has been put together in partnership with third sector stakeholders and takes into account research of the experiences of those with lived experience during COVID-19 restrictions undertaken by Inspiring Scotland. We are currently engaging with autistic people, people with learning disabilities, HSCPs and other stakeholders on what is important for them, building on previous strategy work.
The plan when published will have at its core the voice of people with lived experience and the promotion and protection of the human rights of autistic people and those with learning disabilities.