As someone deeply concerned and directly impacted by NHS Forth Valley's recent decision to close their adult autism assessment service, I am compelled to raise this issue at the forefront. Too many in our community heavily depend on this service. It has been a cornerstone for adults living with autism, providing necessary assessments and paving way for access to potential resources and support. However, the disheartening decision to shut down this service due to funding constraints gravely affects those people and their families.

Highlighting a fact, according to the National Autistic Society, around 700,000 people in the UK are on the autism spectrum (Source: National Autistic Society). This decision of NHS Forth Valley will undoubtedly have a significant impact on a large portion of these individuals who might rely on their assessment services.

We must implore NHS Forth Valley and the stakeholders involved to reconsider this decision. A lack of funding should result in active problem-solving and resource-finding, not the abolition of a significantly needed service that places a larger burden on those needing its support.

Let's take a stand for our community's rights and for the adults who depend on these autism assessment services. Sign the petition and let your voice be heard.

Thank you to Jamie Taylor photography for giving me permission to borrow this photo. 

Please see link for articles:

Falkirk Herald

https://www.falkirkherald.co.uk/health/call-for-nhs-forth-valley-to-bring-back-adult-autism-assessment-service-5008224?fbclid=IwY2xjawIzzWJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHZx6F3rYNk4QIQZZzjJ2VmwOKXlkvnpd7fFxKCLES2yGzaFOeFQkPUgJRw_aem_-d_ifdmx3GyujZCffzw66Q#sejvopybwe8hiav24xwkiinxce5cztrjh

Daily Record

https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/local-news/petition-launched-after-adult-autism-34724384?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Facebook&fbclid=IwY2xjawIzzaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfFRi_ae9J2EMrNRvt2-i_1YmxmWhOR_JO46nez4gSqsif8H7ZX5Yanetw_aem_R5AQvlQOGFFuNaJ90C7TpQ#Echobox=​1740154091