Autism (health and wellbeing needs in South Tyneside)

South Tyneside is around 25 square miles (64 square kilometres), with a population of around 149,000 residents in 2022.

It is one of the most deprived areas in England (ranking 12th of all English local authorities).  

There are approximately 1,600 people who have a diagnosis of autism only in South Tyneside (2023).

There are approximately 350 people in South Tyneside who have a diagnosis of autism with a learning disability.

Feedback from residents accessing the Autism Hub indicates that experience of services, level of support and people's understanding of autism varies, which can impact on their quality of life and that of their families. 

Whilst autistic adults report that lack of understanding can lead to feelings of isolation, vulnerability, and affect their mental health, they feel that some of this could be alleviated through training and awareness raising with professionals, workplaces, and the wider community.

Families have told us that when asked why they are seeking a diagnosis, this has often been at the suggestion of their child's school. Some families believe that if they have a diagnosis for their child, it will help them to access support they need within an educational setting. 

Health data tells us that there were 1,444 males and 467 females listed within primary care. From that, ethnicity recorded shows that:

• The highest ethnicity was recorded as british or mixed british, with 681 males and 217 females. 
• Of the long-term conditions recorded (see Level of need), anxiety remains the highest prevalence in autistic adults.

From the data, it is apparent that there is a disparity between males and females with regards to prevalence.

Further work may be required to explore how support within the community can be developed for those who do not meet the Care Act Eligibility, and how to prevent more formal intervention being required.