The United Nations declared April 2nd World Autism Awareness Day, to increase and develop world knowledge of autism. By bringing together autism organisations all around the world, we will give a voice to the millions of individuals worldwide who are undiagnosed, misunderstood and looking for help. Please join us in our effort to make this possible.
In the UK
In the UK we must persuade governments to recognise autism as distinct from other conditions, deserving urgent strategic planning, policy development, and dedicated resource allocation.
One in a hundred people have autism yet the services and support available to them and their carers are woefully inadequate. All too often autism is not properly understood as a distinct condition and the needs of people affected by autism are not recognised.
The impact of this on individuals can be devastating and it also has a wide social impact. Research suggests that autism costs the UK £28 billion pounds a year. We believe that investing in supporting people to make a full contribution to society and to realise their full potential can significantly reduce this figure.
We want everyone to STAND UP FOR AUTISM and call upon governments in each of the devolved nations of the UK to take action to ensure:
- individuals with autism are not unfairly discriminated against and their rights as people with disabilities as well as citizens are promoted;
- that action is taken to remove barriers to access and address the communication and sensory needs of people with autism – including raising public awareness;
- the numbers of people with autism are counted to ensure equality of provision of, and access to, services and support;
- adequate research funds are made available to increase understanding of autism and develop appropriate interventions and support;
- that resources are made available to support those living with autism and to ensure those working with people with autism are appropriately trained.
Did you know...?
- Autism affects as many as 1 in 100 people in the UK
- Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
- Autism does not discriminate by geography, class, or ethnicity
