(UK) Birmingham: 20% increase in autistic students in state schools in 3yrs

Feb 5, 2026, Facilities Management: Number of autistic children in state education in Birmingham grows by over 20% in three years, new Government data finds 

https://www.facilitiesmanagement-now.com/article/251804/number-of-autistic-children-in-state-education-in-birmingham-grows-by-over-20-in-three-years-new-government-data-finds 

New government data analysis by charity, Let’s Talk Well, reveals that the number of children in Birmingham with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) entering the state education system has grown by over 20% in the last three years.

The charity, which supports the mental wellbeing of children and their families, found that since 2022, there are 20% (2,941) more pupils in state-funded primary schools, from Reception to Year 6, with autism, and 30% (2,405) more in state-funded secondary schools in region compared to three years ago.

Let’s Talk Well’s recent data analysis also revealed that 65% (1,922) of autistic primary school children and 80% (1916) of autistic secondary school children in Birmingham have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan.

The findings follow the Government’s recent announcement to invest £200 million [$270M] in a SEND teacher training programme, equipping every teacher with the skills to support a range of classroom needs including those with speech and language challenges.  . . .