D&G Supports World Autism Awareness Week 2016

World Autism Awareness Week is an annual event that aims to raise awareness of society how autism can affect people and how they can help make the world more autism-friendly. Social isolation is often problem for people and their families, especially in more rural areas like Dumfries and Galloway so we are focusing our events on showcasing the opportunities that are around for people with autism to take part in activities

Around 700,000 people in the UK are autistic. In Dumfries and Galloway alone, over 300 children in our schools have a diagnosis of autism, most of whom are in mainstream classes. People who have autistic spectrum disorders can be affected differently in how a person communicates, how a person relates to others and how they experience the world around them.

There are lots of different activities on offer ranging from music to dance, sport to art so there is something for people of all ages to join in. These events are not just for people with Autism but for everyone. We have also got a specialist company coming to demonstrate a range of specially adapted bikes for people with disabilities. These will include physical disabilities and wheel chair users. Cycling is a great way of getting fit and having exercise and these bikes are designed to enable everyone to be able to join in.

Councillor Jeff Leaver and Chairman of the Education Committee said: ” Our Council’s priorities include providing a good start in life for all our children, preparing young people for adulthood, and caring for our most vulnerable people. These events will be great opportunities for parents, Carers and people who support people affected by autism to find out what there is available to them in Dumfries and Galloway.”

Flyers attached with information about local events.