Having been diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, I have first-hand experience of what it's like to have autism and some of the challenges that are faced.

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I attended a SEND school growing up, and noticed how my parents struggled through a lack of support from local authorities in getting me into my school, which required me to travel over 90 minutes each way every day.

 

However, since then, the progress being made by Surrey County Council has been positive with new schools being completed in Epsom and Redhill, which will help families in East Surrey. And the County Council's improvement plan for SEND provision is a role model for other counties, which should be celebrated.

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I'll work to ensure that there is more awareness of autism and to remove the barriers that are faced.