US Presidential Debate - National Autistic Society Of UK Encouraged To See Autism High On The US Political Agenda

Main Category: Autism
Article Date: 19 Oct 2008 - 0:00 PST

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Mark Lever, chief executive of The National Autistic Society (UK) said;

The National Autistic Society is delighted to see that autism is high up on the US political agenda. The presidential debate has done much to put autism in the spotlight and raise awareness of the challenges facing people with autism and their families. Increasing understanding of this complex disability is the first step to ensuring people with autism can enjoy the same rights and freedoms as everyone else.

Autism is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition and without the right support, it can have a profound and sometimes devastating effect on individuals and families. Current provision for the over half a million people with autism in the UK is woefully inadequate given the scale of the need and in the face of increased diagnoses, the call for services and support becomes ever more pressing.

It is absolutely crucial that Government ensure that education, health and social services are adequately funded and that all professionals are appropriately trained in order to meet the needs of those living with autism and their families. The right support at the right time could make a huge difference.

Click here to read full text of the Presidential Debate (LA Times)

The National Autistic Society (NAS)
http://www.autism.org.uk