THE Western Trust hosted an event to celebrate World Autism Day yesterday, Friday, April 1.
The event, held at the Silverbirch Hotel in Omagh, brought together children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), their parents and professionals from voluntary organisations and the education sector.
It also brought together young people with ASD, families, local autism organisations, support workers and staff from Western Trust autism services.
Young people were able to share their own experiences and display their stories and testimonials around the room about how autism services in the West have worked for them.
Speaking at the event, Kieran Downey, Western Trust Director of Women and Children’s Services said: “This day is an opportunity to recognise the invaluable social activities available through voluntary organisations and parent led groups and to hear from young people about their experiences in relation to this. Autism services have come a long way but we still have far to go. It is through organisations collaborating together and working in partnership with the Western Trust that we can continue the innovative work carried out in the West.”
Dr Mary McDaid, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Autism Services for the Western Trust said: “Additional services are required for children with ASD and their families throughout Northern Ireland and the Western Trust is proactively seeking to enhance service provision to secure additional investment. We work in partnership with the Education Authority and voluntary organisations, parents, adults and children to further improve Autism Services.
We sincerely thank all Autism organisations working together in the Western Trust area to improve the lives of children with ASD and their families.”
