UNLIKE many back benchers I have had not only the best opportunity to present a Private Member’s Bill – by coming top of the ballot – but also the quite rare experience of seeing that bill pass all its parliamentary stages and become law.

The Autism Act of 2009 was the first disability-specific legislation in England. It was designed to help adults with autism, setting out how they could be better supported.

But the work has not stopped there and with the Act now coming up for its triennial review I am working with the National Autistic Society as part of their “Push for Action” initiative. Even with the legislation in place, four years on there are still adults with autism who need support. I have written to the Prime Minister to ask him to give his support.

The Act sets out guidance on how to achieve this and places duties on local authorities and the NHS to bring this about.

Like many MPs, I have met constituents in my advice surgeries who are having difficulties. This applies particularly to young adults, who are making the transition between childhood and adulthood.

I am pleased to say that Ainsley McDonnell (Joint Commissioner) and Kurt Moxley (Senior Joint Commissioner, Mental Health and Autism Lead for Buckinghamshire) will be attending a question and answer session to look at service provision in our county. The National Autistic Society are facilitating this meeting which will take place at Westminster at the end of the summer, so that individuals and families can air any concerns.

If any constituents wish to attend the meeting, please send an email to miles.evans@parliament.uk, as the event will be first come, first served.

I am immensely grateful to the National Autistic Society who are campaigning strongly on behalf of people with autism.