The PC took over commissioning responsibility from NHS England on 1 April 2024, having operated in shadow form since April 2020.
With increasing numbers of people with autism being referred to secure services, a key priority for the PC will be to equip services to better support autistic people.
Rachel Cullen joined the PC in June 2024 as Autism Pathway Manager. They will be developing an autism community of practice and supporting wards to put in place reasonable adjustments for autistic people.
Training will also be delivered to the Forensic Outreach Liaison teams in Kent, Sussex and Surrey to enhance their skills to enable them to support autistic people, ensuring there is equity of access to the service.