The Welsh Assembly Government has published its long-awaited action plan designed to improve services for those affected by autism.

The strategy is being backed with funding of £1.8m to take forward the key actions in the first three years.

The Welsh Assembly Government said that the action plan will help the estimated 30,000 people that are either directly or indirectly affected by autism in Wales.

Local authorities have been told that they must identify needs of people with autism and services available in their areas.

The Chief Executive of Autism Cymru, Hugh Morgan, has been appointed Implementation Manager for the plan.

The strategy is available to download from the Welsh Assembly Government website.