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Raising awareness of autism

1 March 2010

Autism experts at Dimensions are hosting a series of events in the lead up to World Autism Day in a bid to raise awareness of the little understood condition.

Dimensions, a leading provider of support for people with autism, is hosting a series of events between 22nd and 26th March to raise awareness of autism. It will give families the chance to find out more about the support available to them. During the events, which are free to families, there will be talks from autism and behaviour support specialists while there will also be activities planned for children.

"67 million people across the globe are believed to be on the autism spectrum," said Lisa Hopkins, Director of Specialist Development at Dimensions. "That's one percent of the world population. Yet what autism means to individuals and families is not widely known. We want to turn this around by helping to positively raise awareness of autism and what specialist support is available to families."

Autism spectrum conditions (also known as ASC) are lifelong development conditions that affect one in every 100 people within the UK population. Autism is experienced by people from all walks of life. Studies show that signs of autism are usually present by three years of age and the condition is four times more prevalent in males than females.

The event will be open to families as well as people who work with people with autism professionally. The event will provide the opportunity for parents of children with autism to find out more about what to expect as their children move into adulthood. They can also get advice from professionals about behaviour concerns. There will be a session during the day with speakers and an informal second session in the evening for families to meet face to face with specialists. There will also be activities organised for children and refreshments provided. Dimensions currently supports more than 600 adults with autism spectrum conditions.

• For ticket details contact Joseph Francis on 0114 241 2116 or check out www.dimensions-uk.org.