On Wednesday, Julian Smith spoke out for autistic children and families in a debate on Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.
Julian delivered aspeech during the second reading of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill in the House of Commons, advocating for greater support for autistic children and their families.
He highlighted two key areas of the Bill; the registration of children not in school and teacher training.
He stressed the importance of these measures in ensuring no child is left ‘lost or hidden in the system.’
The local MP urged the Government to consult closely with autism charities and experts to ensure that implementation reflects the realities faced by families.
Julian said:
“The inadvertent risk of penalising those families through fines or stricter rules, that can obviously add to the harm and the stress that those families are often having.
And I would urge ministers and civil servants to reflect on that.
Why should an autistic parent, be fined if they are doing all they can to get their children into school?”
Julian praised the efforts of organisations such as Ambitious About Autism for their work in advocating for a more detailed data profile on children not in school and cited the work of the National Autistic Society, The Children’s Commissioner, The PDA Society and the Autism Education Trust.
He called for expanded autism-specific modules in both initial teacher training and ongoing professional development.
Julian added:
“The more that individual teacher training programs can have specific models about the different aspects of autism and the challenges on school entry, the more that can be done on continuous professional development for all staff, teachers, administration staff, and receptionists is key.”
You can watch Julian’s full speech here.
Community rallies to help elderly driver find 'missing' car in Skipton
Dales Dazzler trail running event returns to Skipton
Everything you need to know about Skipton Pride this weekend
Police appeal after driver forgets where car was parked in Skipton
Shoplifter caught trying to dump stolen goods in Skipton bin
Councillor breaks national fundraising record with charity head shave
Festival director facing court after cancelled Skipton event
Yorkshire marketing business raises £1,000 for Skipton children's charity
Team to push car 130 miles in extraordinary charity challenge inspired by young boy's courage
Only one more day left to enjoy Skipton Cinema Days this summer
Hundreds gather in Skipton for another successful Yorkshire Day event
Safety reminder after rubbish found in Skipton knife bin
Skipton bakery retains North Yorkshire's best bakery title for second year
MP raises Cowling speeding concerns with police and council after residents' complaints
Right at Home celebrates official opening of new office
Wanted man found hiding in wardrobe during Skipton arrest
Addingham Beer Festival returns this October
Nominations open for Local Pub Awards 2026 for Skipton and Ripon
Campaigners hand in petition over doubling of second homes council tax
Skipton Live Reveals 42-Act Line-up for First Ever Music Festival
