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Autism IQ Test Bars Adult Support
29 Oct
Summary
- Young adults with learning difficulties face system gaps.
- IQ tests exclude many from vital adult disability services.
- Northern Ireland's health trusts use flawed IQ assessment.
A critical gap in support services is leaving young adults with learning difficulties feeling abandoned. For individuals like Callan, who has autism, ADHD, and anxiety, turning 18 means losing access to crucial educational support due to outdated assessment methods. His mother, Cherisse Lanigan, argues that IQ tests are a flawed system that unfairly excludes her son from adult disability services, despite his significant social and emotional needs.
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust acknowledges that its current IQ-based assessment approach for learning disabilities can present significant challenges for those who do not meet eligibility criteria. This system means that even young people previously identified with Special Educational Needs (SEN) may be denied adult support if their IQ exceeds 70, a situation described as "indefensible" by Northern Ireland's Independent Autism Reviewer.
Campaigns are ongoing in Northern Ireland to improve post-SEN support. While the Department of Health recognizes that young people with autism can have vulnerabilities similar to those with learning disabilities, the move towards a more consistent and adequate support system is happening within a financially constrained environment. Discussions have begun regarding Callan's case, offering a glimmer of hope for improved support.
