From SEND Code of Practice:
6.28 Children and young people with speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) have difficulty in communicating with others. This may be because they have difficulty saying what they want to, understanding what is being said to them or they do not understand or use social rules of communication. The profile for every child with SLCN is different and their needs may change over time. They may have difficulty with one, some or all of the different aspects of speech, language or social communication at different times of their lives.
6.29 Children and young people with ASD, including Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism, are likely to have particular difficulties with social interaction. They may also experience difficulties with language, communication and imagination, which can impact on how they relate to others.
Having a speech, language or communication need does not necessarily mean that a child has autism.
Daisy Chain Project
The Daisy Chain Project is a charity that provides a range of support services to children and adults affected by autism, either with a diagnosis or who are undergoing the diagnostic process, their parents/carers and their siblings living in a TS or DL postcode area.
Further Advice and Support
Further advice and support for parents / carers and families of autistic children can be found here on this NHS website.
Details are given as to 'Things that can help you and your family', 'Talking to your child about Autism' and 'Supporting your other children' as well as useful links to further information.