Formally recognize "Profound Autism" in Welsh Health and Social Care Policy
Open for signatures until 19 February 2027.
128 signatures
- More than 250 signatures: considered by the Petitions CommitteeNot reached
- More than 10,000 signatures: considered for a debate in the SeneddNot reached
We call on the Welsh Government to formally recognize "Profound Autism" as a distinct clinical and administrative category across NHS Wales, local authority social care, and education. Under the current broad ASD umbrella, non-verbal individuals requiring 24/7 care, safety supervision, and full personal care are grouped with those needing mild support. This single-label system distorts policy, dilutes high-dependency social care budgets, and leaves families facing severe caregiver burnout.
More details
Prior to diagnostic manual updates (DSM-5 / ICD-11), the medical system differentiated between profiles like Autistic Disorder and Asperger's Syndrome. While there were valid reasons to phase out legacy terms, removing distinct sub-categories created a monolithic "ASD" umbrella that erases extreme functional differences. Differentiating support needs ensures non-verbal, severely disabled individuals receive lifelong care packages, while higher-functioning individuals receive targeted mental health support. We ask the Welsh Government to: Implement stratified diagnostic frameworks across NHS Wales health boards aligned with international recommendations (such as The Lancet Commission on Autism). Mandate local councils to assess social care needs based on severe functional dependency, non-verbal communication, and 24/7 safety management. Protect dedicated funding for round-the-clock physical care and respite for profoundly autistic individuals and their carers.
Signatures by constituency
The Senedd's petitions website lists 118 of the 128 signatures under a Senedd constituency.
| Constituency | Signatures |
|---|---|
| Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr | 62 |
| Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd | 10 |
| Gŵyr Abertawe | 10 |
| Sir Gaerfyrddin | 10 |
| Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg | 8 |
| Afan Ogwr Rhondda | 5 |