Alliance members of the Assembly Working Group on Autism Chris Lyttle and Kieran McCarthy have welcomed the Autism Act coming into law on the 9th August. The act defines autism in equal terms with other disabilities which will improve access to benefits. It also place a duty upon the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to act to take the lead upon producing a cross departmental action. strategy on autism.
Chris Lyttle MLA said: “This act gives long overdue legal definition to Autism as a social and communication disability and places a statutory responsibility on the Department of Health & Social Services to deliver a cross departmental strategy for Autism, which will help us to deliver the improved services individuals with Autism and their families need and deserve.
Kieran McCarthy MLA said: “I would like to pay tribute to the work of Autism NI in securing this legislation and give the full support of the Alliance Party to ensuring its provisions mean real improvements on the ground for people with Autism.
ENDS