DRC: New advisory group for people with autism

Tuesday, 01, Nov 2005 12:00

People with autism and related conditions have a stronger voice at the Disability Rights Commission (DRC) this month with the introduction of a new advisory group.

The Autism and Neurodiversity Group will be made up of people with autism and ‘neuro-diverse’ conditions such as Tourette’s syndrome, dyslexia, dyspraxia and Asperger’s syndrome.

Mia Rosenblatt of the National Autistic Society said:

‘The NAS strongly welcomes the establishment of this group. We want it to lead to greater acknowledgement of the needs of people in the autistic spectrum as well as bringing about action which addresses those needs”

DRC Chair Bert Massie said:

‘We understand that people within the autistic spectrum face specific problems of discrimination. That is why the DRC has set up an advisory group to help better inform our work. The group is run by autistic and neuro-diverse people who can suggest how we can improve our services and tell us what other work we can do to make sure things are better for people with autism.”

Jo Todd, Managing Director for Key4Learning said:

"Those with neuro-diversity are entitled to dignity and recognition of their difference so that they can contribute their major skills."

The new group is also being supported by MP Liz Blackman who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Autism.

The Autism and Neurodiversity group will recommend work for the DRC to focus on and comment on how well DRC services (such as our Helpline and website) are tailored to meet the needs of people in the spectrum.