The Joint Committee on Human Rights has heard shocking evidence of young people with autism and learning disabilities being locked up and isolated in secure hospitals and inpatient units.

Two parents, Julie Newcombe and Jeremy, shared their experiences of how their autistic children have been treated in secure hospitals with the human rights committee. The committee is currently examining the human rights of people with autism and learning disabilities in inpatient units.

Assessment and Treatment Units (ATUs) are intended to be short-term inpatient units for patients with needs which may be difficult to safely treat or assess within the community. Patients can choose to enter an ATU on their own or may be sent there after being sectioned.

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