'There isn't actually a pathway for diagnosis for adults', says ASC member

UK resident says she would have delayed moving over the Island had she known she would drop off the UK waiting list

April marks Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month, but just how advanced is the Isle of Man when it comes to diagnosis of the disorder?

Well, a former UK resident who moved to the Island around a year and a half ago believes improvements could be made.

Following years of therapy, Lauren was told she could be autistic and was put on the ADHD waiting list there.

After about three years on the list, the opportunity arose for her to move to the Island, which she took.

But it was only after moving that she realised that, as an adult, getting a diagnosis here is impossible.

She spoke to Chanelle Sukhoo:

DHSC has previously told Manx Radio the patient should be referred to the Manx Care Advice and Liaison Service (MCALS) to seek direct support and guidance as it will be tailored to their individual need/circumstances.

Matt Quine and Jade Boylan are lay members of the Autism Spectrum Condition Steering Group.

They admit that while work has been ongoing to highlight the challenges and improve the condition for those with it, there's still a long way to go:

The Autism Spectrum Condition Strategy is something important to Douglas East MHK Joney Faragher.

It was one of the key reports she worked on during her time as political member for the Department of Health and Social Care. 

Last month Ms Faragher asked Health Minister Claire Christian what work was being done to open more pathways for diagnosis for all age groups on the Island.

She explained to Chanelle Sukhoo it's vital the strategy starts to work for people:

WHAT IS THE NATIONAL AUTISM STRATEGY:

It includes goals of:

- increasing community awareness of the condition

- reducing health and social care inequalities 

- improving the everyday experience for people living with autism and their families.

- More public awareness campaigns, 

- training for healthcare staff and guidance to people working in all public services.

You can listen to the full interviews on Manx Newscasts: