Make additional autism-specific training mandatory for all speech therapists

7,291
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openDepartment of Health and Social Careby Laura BrownOpened 21 April 2026

Background

I believe Speech Therapy is failing autistic children and that change is long overdue. This campaign calls to make additional autism-specific training mandatory for all prospective & practising NHS Speech Therapists. Please sign this petition today to Speak Up for Autism.

Additional details

The new training should focus on ensuring autistic individuals have their specific Speech, Language & Communications needs met & give all Speech Therapists the confidence to recommend, refer & support an autistic individual’s communication needs. This would include augmentative & alternative communication, language processing & understanding of speech disorders such as Apraxia - with a specific focus on how these impact & relate to autistic individuals. This new training could be called "Speak Up for Autism."

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 764248.