Trust honoured with National Autistic Society’s Autism Inclusion Award

Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust has been awarded the Autism Inclusion Award by the National Autistic Society. This esteemed accolade recognises organisations that go above and beyond in supporting autistic individuals, fostering inclusion in sectors including education, healthcare, justice, and community activities.

Pinderfields Hospital has earned this recognition for its efforts to support autistic patients, ensuring they receive care tailored to their specific needs, with initiatives embedded across the whole Trust and in the community including; staff training, the creation of sensory-friendly environments, and patient-centred care pathways that respond to the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals and their families.

Autism, which affects around 1 in 100 people in the UK, is a lifelong developmental condition that impacts how people communicate, interact with others, and perceive the world. Autistic individuals may experience sensory sensitivities, heightened anxiety, and difficulty navigating environments not designed with their needs in mind. For many, accessing mainstream services can be overwhelming or even inaccessible without appropriate adjustments.

Len Richards, Chief Executive of Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust expressed pride in this achievement, highlighting its significance for patients, their families, and the wider community;

“We are deeply honoured to receive the Autism Inclusion Award. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff and their commitment to compassionate, inclusive care for all.

“For our patients with autism, this means more than just improved access to services; it’s about creating a space where they feel safe, understood, and valued. We are committed to making our services as inclusive as possible, ensuring every individual feels supported throughout their care journey.”

Christine Flintoft-Smith, Head of Autism Accreditation and Projects at the National Autistic Society, said;

“We are delighted that Pinderfields Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust has achieved the Autism Inclusion Award. The team should be exceptionally proud of their achievement and commitment towards improving support for autistic people.”

The National Autistic Society’s Autism Accreditation Programme is the UK’s only autism-specific quality assurance programme of support and development for all those providing services to autistic people.