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Purpose -- This article aims to bring readers up to date with policy developments in England and Northern Ireland in the last two years since the journal first reported on these issues. Design/methodology/approach -- As well as looking at changes to policy and legislation, the paper highlights not only the differences but also the shared concerns for people with intellectual disability living in the two countries, e.g. equal access to healthcare as experienced by the general population. Findings -- In spite of shared visions of inclusion and equality in mental health care, there are major differences in how both countries approach these issues. Recently this has been highlighted by significant shifts in policy. In Northern Ireland strategies designed to inform the delivery of evidence based services for the future have been witnessed. Whilst in England there has also been a move towards public protection within mental health legislation and the reaffirmation of the need to move towards more individual services. Whilst policy initiatives in both countries have been encouraging; they need to be implemented so issues such as access to healthcare and geographical disparity are addressed by local providers. Social implications -- Although there is a desire for change, the reality is that the policies and legislation introduced to address issues such as accessing mental health care and service standards have still to make a significant impact to people's daily lives. Originality/value -- This paper offers an update of current practice and policy relating to mental health for people with intellectual disabilities in England and Northern Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose -- The aim of this article is to critically review the Autism Strategy and to discuss its implications. Design/methodology/approach -- This is a and critical review of the Autism Strategy and its implementation. This includes discussion of the political context, reactions to the strategy by stakeholders, economic considerations, equity, integration across health and social care and the role of diagnostic services and specialist interventions. Findings -- The Autism Strategy Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives was published in 2010. It aimed to increase awareness of autism, establish clear pathways for diagnosis and needs assessment, promote independent living and access to work, and help the development of local services. It focuses on intended outcomes, is not prescriptive about how those aims are achieved, and relies on existing legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act. The emphasis on accessing mainstream services may limit the development of appropriate specialist services, especially in the current economic climate. Specialist interventions that may follow diagnosis are not prioritised, even though the economic case for them has been well made by the Audit Commission. Although the Department of Health has produced "outcomes and ambitions" to measure implementation of the Strategy, local authorities are not required to measure themselves against these targets or publish their results. However , organisations such as the National Autistic Society have already developed training materials to help with implementation, and the NICE guidelines for adults with autism due in 2012 may help the development of better services. Originality/value -- This article provides new insights into the implications of the strategy for service users, service managers and healthcare professionals. Although the strategy applies to England only, the principles are of interest to stakeholders in other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]