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How is autism support different in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?

The education support systems in each nation (additional support for learning, additional learning needs, statements) and where to start.

By The Autism Kit teamUpdated Sep 27, 2026 · 1 min read
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The short answer

Each UK nation has its own education support system. Scotland uses 'additional support for learning', with a statutory co-ordinated support plan (CSP) for some children. Wales uses 'additional learning needs' (ALN), with individual development plans (IDPs). Northern Ireland uses special educational needs, with statements of SEN for children who need more support. England uses EHCPs.

Key takeaways
  • Scotland: additional support for learning; co-ordinated support plans for some.
  • Wales: additional learning needs; individual development plans.
  • Northern Ireland: SEN framework; statements for more complex needs.
  • England: SEN support and EHCPs.

How does each nation compare?

Education support across the UK
NationSystemStatutory plan
EnglandSpecial educational needs and disability (SEND)Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
ScotlandAdditional support for learning (ASL)Co-ordinated support plan (CSP)
WalesAdditional learning needs (ALN)Individual development plan (IDP)
Northern IrelandSpecial educational needs (SEN)Statement of special educational needs

How does Scotland work?

The Education (Additional Support for Learning) (Scotland) Act 2004 provides the legal framework. Children whose needs are significant, need support from education and another agency, and will last more than a year may have a statutory co-ordinated support plan.1

How does Wales work?

Wales has an additional learning needs system, with individual development plans for children and young people with ALN.2

How does Northern Ireland work?

A statement of special educational needs sets out a child's needs, the support needed and the educational setting, and is reviewed every year.3

Free printable: one-page pupil profilePDF · 1 page · strengths, needs and what helps, in the pupil's words
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What can I do this week?

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Common questions

No. Right to Choose is part of the NHS Choice Framework in England.

Sources

  1. Scottish Government: Additional support for learning. gov.scot
  2. Welsh Government: Additional learning needs. gov.wales
  3. nidirect: Special educational needs, statements. nidirect.gov.uk

This guide shares general information and our team's perspective, based on the sources above. Every child is different, so please talk with your child's doctor or care team about what's right for your family. How we write our guides.

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