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Autism Rate in NI Schools Soars
17 May
Summary
- One in 16 schoolchildren in Northern Ireland has an autism diagnosis.
- Autism diagnoses in schoolchildren have increased over 3,000 in three years.
- Boys are more than twice as likely to receive an autism diagnosis.
New figures indicate that one in 16 schoolchildren in Northern Ireland has a diagnosis of autism. This represents an increase of over 3,000 diagnosed children compared to three years prior. The prevalence rate among schoolchildren has risen by more than 300% in the last 15 years.
Boys are more than twice as likely as girls to have an autism diagnosis. The Department of Health highlighted that while numbers are up, a decline in the total number of schoolchildren also contributes to the higher prevalence rate. Experts caution that diagnostic waiting lists and school placement delays can affect statistics.
Personal accounts underscore the challenges families face. One mother shared her daughter's journey, noting delays in assessment during the Covid-19 pandemic and a stressful two-year wait for specialist school placement. Her daughter is now thriving in a special school setting.
These statistics reflect improved visibility and understanding of autism within education systems not historically designed for autistic pupils. However, concerns persist regarding ongoing support for young people with special educational needs as they transition out of school.
