According to Patrick Simon, manager of the communication service at the foundation, there is currently a five-year waiting list for an autism diagnosis. This is despite expanded services and an increase in diagnoses carried out in 2025 compared with the previous year.
Simon revealed that 433 diagnostic requests were received last year, with 147 diagnoses completed. “We are struggling to support the families that are contacting us for help,” he said, acknowledging that a five-year wait is far too long for families in need of support.
While a comprehensive diagnosis, based on internationally approved assessment methods, typically takes between two and three months, it's possible that, depending on the individual, additional testing may be required, which can further extend the process.
Simon explained that the foundation is working to reduce waiting times by coordinating with the relevant ministries to find a suitable and long-term solution.
Since 1996, the foundation has aimed to provide key services and structures to support the neurodivergent community in Luxembourg.
“Thirty years ago, the first activity we had was a holiday week. The idea was to relieve families who needed support and time to recover and recharge their batteries,” Simon explained.
Since then, the services have been developed in conjunction with, and in response to, the needs of families, he explained.
A key message the foundation is keen to relay is that everyone in society has a role to play in promoting inclusion and improving the wellbeing of people who are on the autism spectrum or who have specific needs.
“Everyone involved, everyone concerned” (“Tous acteurs, tous concernés”) is the organisation’s motto.
Relaying statistics from Autism Europe, Simon said that fewer than 10 per cent of people on the autism spectrum are employed.
“This is an issue we face for people who would like to integrate into employment but do not find suitable work.”
Finding suitable accommodation for autistic people is another challenge facing the foundation. Six homes currently exist across two sites in Munshausen and Rambrouch, and the organisation is planning to expand its accommodation capacity and housing solutions.
Overall, the foundation served a record 1,590 users in 2025 alone. This included areas including diagnostics, family support, respite care, and children’s activities.
The impact the foundation has had on society has been “huge,” said Simon, with the delivery of these services made possible by the organisation’s approximately 230 staff members.
According to its annual report, post-diagnostic support was provided to 468 families last year. In terms of funding, general unrestricted donations totalled €295,662 in 2025.
To mark 30 years of inclusion, Fondation Autisme Luxembourg will host "Village de la Famille" at Place d’Armes this Saturday, 9 May. An "information village" will be set up, consisting of several tents highlighting the foundation’s different areas of activity.
The event offers the public an opportunity to meet the team behind the foundation and learn about its history, as well as its missions and commitments, through dedicated awareness and exchange spaces.
It is aimed at both children and adults, with a range of activities and concerts taking place from 10am to 6pm. Activities throughout the day will include a photobooth, face painting, and a sports course open to all.
