New information service for autism sufferers
Friday, November 10 2006
A new facility to help people with autism has been launched at Hawick Library by Scottish Borders Council (SBC) and NHS Borders.
The Autism Information Point consists of books, videos and leaflets on Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and is intended for parents, carers, families and professionals, as well as ASD sufferers themselves. It can be used across the Scottish Borders via the library interloan system.
SBC Director of Social Work, Andrew Lowe said that the new resource point was particularly welcome as autism affects around one in 100 people, and new cases are being diagnosed every day: "So often people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder fall between two stools and lack a focussed source of information that is dedicated to their needs."
Rodelle Purvis, Chairperson of Border Aspergers and Autism Group Support, added, "I am delighted at the development of this resource. It is very useful and important to have a specific place where anyone can find information on Autism and how to offer the best service to the person with the condition."
The new community website www.onlineborders.org.uk is also planning to offer an autism micro-site with local and national information on the disorder, plus an opportunity for professionals such as medical experts, academics, social work staff and therapists to share good practice. It will include a forum for discussion for people with ASD, their parents, families, carers and friends.
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