UK Department for Education autism review criticized for lack of focus on girls

The Department for Education (DfE) has released a 93-page evidence review concerning behavioral and social communication interventions for autistic children and those with social, emotional, and mental health needs in mainstream schools. Critics from the Autistic Girls Network have pointed out that the document contains only one sentence specifically addressing girls, suggesting a lack of focus on their unique experiences within these interventions.

In support of neurodivergent youth, clinical perspectives emphasize that autistic teenagers thrive when environments adapt to their needs rather than forcing them to adapt to the world. Key support factors include schools that provide adjustments to sensory demands and workloads, access to a trusted adult for crisis prevention, and home environments that allow for sensory recovery and downtime.