ISIC 2025/2026
Exploring the Impact of Sensory Needs on Hospital Discharge for Autistic People in Essex, England, UK
Authors: Alice Ward, Lindsay Darby, Alex Laidler, Gracie Moore and Kathryn Smith
This poster explores how unmet sensory needs contribute to delayed hospital discharge for autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities in mental health inpatient services across Essex.
Drawing on local audit survey data from multidisciplinary health and social care professionals, it highlights how sensory overload, environmental mismatch, and unsuitable ward and placement environments, combined with limited access to occupational therapists trained in Ayres’ Sensory Integration®, create significant barriers to safe, timely discharge.
The findings indicate that improved sensory assessment, access to occupational therapists trained in Ayres’ Sensory Integration®, and sensory-informed ward practice and discharge planning can:
- reduce delays
- improve outcomes for autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities
- deliver cost-effective benefits across adult health and social care systems
The poster also presents practical, evidence-informed solutions to support more effective, sensory-aware inpatient care pathways and community transitions.