An MP has pledged to help autistic residents by backing a draft Private Members’ Bill, launched by The National Autistic Society (NAS).

With 40% of adults with autism living at home with their parents and over 60% relying on them financially, South Swindon representative Anne Snelgrove feels the new policy would give sufferers the support needed to become more independent.

She said: “Autism is much more common than most people think and it is crucial that there is appropriate support at a local level.

"This important bill has the potential to make a real difference to people living with autism in my constituency and provides me with a unique opportunity to take action.”

NAS Chief Executive, Mark Lever, added: “We are delighted to have the support of Anne and strongly urge other MPs to follow her lead; the right support at the right time could transform thousands of lives.

"It is simply unacceptable that individuals and families continue to struggle to get the help they so desperately need from health and social care agencies.”

The Autism Bill aims to compel local authorities and NHS bodies to recognise and fulfil their responsibilities towards people with autism.

Measures proposed include improving local information on the number of people with autism, providing effective support from child to adult services, appropriate staff training, and the promotion of appropriate packages of support to enable independent living for people with the disability.

Pledge your support for the bill at www.autism.org.uk/autismbill