Robert Brown calls for more support for Autism

12.00.00am GMT Mon 17th Mar 2008

Glasgow Liberal Democrat MSP Robert Brown has called on the Scottish Government to act on the key findings and recommendations in the "I Exist" report into autism.

The National Autistic Society Scotland's report has found that 52 per cent of autistic adults have not had an assessment of their needs since the age of 18 and that 54 per cent do not have enough support to meet their needs.

Only 13 per cent of people with autism are in full time employment and many autistic adults still live with their parents.

The report comes after a local campaign in Rutherglen has highlighted a lack of primary school provision for children with autism. Over seven hundred people, including Robert Brown have backed the campaign and signed the petition.

Robert Brown said:

"This report has some disturbing conclusions. It's quite clear that adults with autism aren't getting the support they need.

"And, as we know from the campaign in Rutherglen, it's not just adults with autism that are suffering from a lack of help from authorities - children struggle too to get adequate support.

"Part of the problem is a lack of funding, but it's also a lack of expertise and then training and information for and about people with autism.

"Many people with autism have individual care and support needs, and many parents who care for their autistic children, when adults and infants, need respite care.

"That's why I fully support the recommendation for more support and training for carers who undoubtedly bear the brunt of providing increased support for people with autism."

Ends

To add your name or to view the petition please click on the link below.

Related Link:

Make Room for Autism.