2026 is a big year for autism policy in the UK. We’re talking about everything from a new national plan for autism to changes in special education and healthcare training. This year could really change how autistic people get support, whether they’re kids in school or adults dealing with doctors and social services. There’s a chance for real improvement, but also a risk that things will stay the same. Here’s what’s happening.

A New National Autism Strategy: The Decade Ahead 

The current national strategy for autistic children and adults ends this year. The government says they’ll have a new one by July 2026, but groups that work with autistic people want to make sure autistic voices are actually part of making this new plan.

The next strategy could change how people get:

• Access to healthcare and social support
• Education and SEND provision
• Employment opportunities
• Public understanding and inclusion

The big question is if it will actually make a real difference or just be a bunch of nice well-intentioned words.

Reviewing Autism, ADHD, and Mental Health Services

An independent review is underway to examine autism, ADHD, and mental health services, with results expected in summer 2026.

The review focuses on:

• Long waits to get a diagnosis
• Uneven access to services in different areas
• Evidence-based improvements for service delivery

Its recommendations could reshape NHS policy and funding, offering a chance for faster, fairer, and more effective support.

SEND and Education Reform

The system for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) has always gotten a lot of complaints for being slow, inconsistent, and not giving enough help.

In 2026, the government might push for:

• Easier ways to get a diagnosis
• Better help for autistic kids in classrooms
• More inclusive educational practices

These changes will directly affect how children experience school and what their lives are like later on.

Oliver McGowan Training Requirement: Raising Care Standards

Throughout 2025-26, all healthcare and social care staff have to take training on autism and learning disabilities. This is called the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training.

This means:

• Better experiences for patients
• Safer care for autistic people
• Staff who are more understanding and informed

If you’re autistic and dealing with health or social care, this is one of the most noticeable policy changes in a while.

Welfare and Disability Benefits

While not autism-specific, welfare debates – including possible changes to how Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is assessed – will affect many autistic adults.

What happens in 2026 could change:

• Who can get support
• How financially independent people are
• Access to essential services

Autistic adults and their families should keep an eye on these discussions.

Regional Variations: Devolved Nations

Policies in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland often move faster than Westminster on autism support. Regional initiatives may include:

• Shorter waits for a diagnosis
• More money for support services
• School programmes made for specific needs

So, where you live in the UK will matter for what changes happen and when.

The Bottom Line

2026 is a really important year for autism policy in the UK. With a new national plan, major service reviews, education changes, mandatory training, and debates about benefits, there’s a big chance for real progress.

But there’s also a risk: things could slow down, plans could get watered down, and unfairness could continue. Autistic people and their families need to be at the centre of these talks, not just watching, but actively helping shape what happens next.

Here’s something to think about this year: Plans on paper don’t mean much without action. 2026 makes us ask: Will this be a year of actual genuine progress, or just more promises?