Chris Lyttle MLA said: It is deeply troubling that this research shows that over 50% of mothers who have a child with Autism here currently take medication to cope with stress.
“It is despicable to think that according to this report some people are suffering marginalisation and discrimination, financial problems and social exclusion. Government must sit up, take heed of this report and act to address this issue.
“Government must consider training for our teachers to help in the early diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and ensure rapid support for parents in receipt of news of the diagnosis of their child.
“The state needs to respond more effectively to assist people with Autism and their parents. This report makes for appallingly sad reading and government must ensure that the services needed to improve the lives of people with Autism and their parents are in place.”
ENDS