(UK) Glos: 40% increase in autistic students in 3 yrs; rate 'continues to grow'

Jan 27, 2026, Punchline Gloucester: Number of autistic children in state education in Gloucestershire up 40%

https://www.punchline-gloucester.com/skillsjobsapprenticeships/number-of-autistic-children-in-state-education-in-gloucestershire-up-40-per-cent-according-to-local- 

New government data analysis by Forest of Dean-based charity, Let's Talk Well, reveals that the number of children in Gloucestershire with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) entering the state education system has grown by over 40% in the last three years.

The charity, which supports the mental wellbeing of children and their families, found that there are 42% (443) more pupils in state-funded primary schools, from reception to year 6, with autism, and 59% (628) more in state-funded secondary schools in the county compared to three years ago.

Let's Talk Well's recent data analysis also revealed that 69% (306) of autistic primary school children in Gloucestershire and 40% (253) of autistic secondary school children have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

The findings follow the government's recent announcement that it will invest £200 million [$276M] 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. . . .

Judith Bell, chief clinical officer at Let's Talk Well, said: "Our analysis of the most recent Department for Education data demonstrates that the rate at which the number of children in the state-funded education system, diagnosed with autism, continues to grow at pace. We believe this demonstrates the need for a conference dedicated to upskilling professionals working with children and young people to enable improved support for the next generation." . . .

Dr Pooky Knightsmith, author and lecturer on child and adolescent mental health, and keynote speaker, said: "Behind every one of the statistics identified by Let's Talk Well is a young person trying to navigate a world that wasn't designed for how their brain works.

"These young people don't need more labels. They need adults around them who understand, who can create safety and who know what actually helps. That's what this conference is about."

Judith continued: "Through our Children and Young People's Mental Health Conference, we're aiming to give professionals the tools and understanding they need to better support neurodivergent young people.

"Neurodivergence can have a big impact on mental health, and when young people feel worried, frustrated, angry or sad, it can be confusing and isolating. This event will focus on practical strategies to help professionals respond in ways that make a real difference.

"We're incredibly grateful to all our sponsors, including Benefact Group, NHS Gloucestershire ICB, Simplicity and Mayden for making this event possible, and we're calling for more businesses to get involved.

"By investing in this event, companies will be helping to create a future where every young person gets the support they need.

Let's Talk Well's Children and Young People's Mental Health Conference 2026, understanding and working with neurodivergence, takes place on March 27 at Cheltenham Racecourse. To register, search Let's Talk Well Conference 2026.