Newport ASD Steering Group

  1. Purpose

The purpose of the group is to coordinate and implement multi-agency support for individuals in Newport Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The group will function to promote:

  • A shared understanding of the tasks, processes, principles, roles and responsibilities and local arrangements for all agencies supporting individuals with a diagnosis of ASD and those seeking a diagnosis;
  • More effective and integrated services;
  • Improved communications between professionals and community members including a common understanding of key terms, definitions;
  • Effective working relationships, based on respect and an understanding of the role and contribution of different disciplines; and
  • Sound decision making based on information sharing, through assessment, critical analysis and professional judgment.
  1. Tasks

Tasks to be completed by the Newport ASD Steering Group include:

  • The development and implementation of a multi-agency action plan whose actions will ispart-funded by a Welsh Government grant.
  • Task and finish sub-groups of the steering group will be formed and meet as required.
  1. Group Membership

The Newport ASD Steering Groupmembership consists of representatives from the following:

  • Newport Local Authority Education Services
  • Newport City Council Disabled Children’s Team
  • Newport Social Services Adult Services
  • NewportCity Council Play Services
  • Newport Sport and Leisure Services
  • Aneurin Bevan Health Board
  • Gwent Action for Voluntary Organisations (GAVO)
  • Parents and carers of individuals with an ASD
  • Individuals with an ASD
  • National Autistic Society

The group will be Chaired by Newport City Council Strategic Director – People.

  1. Meetings

The group will meet at least four times each year.

In addition to a meeting that will take place each quarter; the group will exist as a virtual entity communicating by email and telephone.

  1. Communication

All agenda items and papers should be submitted at least ten working days before each meeting. The agenda will be circulated to all group members at least five working days prior to each meeting.

Minutes of each meeting will be circulated within five working days of each meeting.

  1. Reporting Arrangements

The work of the group, use of the annual ASD grant and progress against the Newport ASD Action Plan will be reported to the National Strategic Coordinator for ASD; Newport Children and Young People’s Scrutiny Committee; and information will be sent to Newport Adult Services Scrutiny Committee.