CABINET members approved £500,000 in funding to help reduce waiting times for an autism assessment after it was revealed more than 1,600 are on the list with some waiting for more than three years.

It’s hoped that the £500,000 will build additional capacity within the Autism Spectrum Disorder Assessment Team (ASDAT) team and to insource a provider within Barnsley Hospital.

The current number of children waiting on the waiting list as of August 2025 was 1,689 with the longest waits just over three years.

The aim is for the plan to support children who are facing the most significant transition points.

There are currently 99 children who are set to attend secondary school waiting for an assessment, while there are 96 set to go to college.

A total of 72 youngsters are also waiting to move into higher education, work or independence.

The funding was approved at the cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

Coun Ashley Peace, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services, said: “We are committed to ensuring every child and young person in Barnsley receives the support they need when they need it.

“By proposing to invest in additional assessment capacity, we are taking decisive action to reduce waiting times and provide timely help for families.

“This reflects our ongoing dedication to improving outcomes for children with special educational needs and disabilities in Barnsley, and to supporting them through important transitions in their education and development.”