Autistic children waiting too long for support

Some children with autism are waiting half their lives to get a diagnosis, only to go on another waiting list for on-going support, according to the advocacy organisation Altogether Autism. Ministry of Health figures in the last five years show the number of pre-schooler and school age young people getting funding for ASD has grown by 55 per cent, but Altogether Autism says there are many more children and young people who aren't even counted as they are not able to get a diagnosis - let alone further support. Kathryn talks with Whakatane mother Nicola Hayward, whose seven year old son has autism and a range of other developmental issues and from next year will have no support at school. Also with the National Manager for Altogether Autism, Catherine Trezona.