Council backs Autism Wales campaign

Bridgend County Borough Council is backing a campaign that aims to transform public understanding of autism and help tackle the issues many adults with autism face.

 

The ‘Can You See Me?’ campaign, which has been re-launched by Autism Wales, runs until the end of World Autism Awareness Week (29 March-4 April). It will provide resources, training and advice to help the potential of autistic people to be recognised.

Individuals, employers and organisations throughout Wales are being encouraged to make a pledge to complete the Autism Awareness Certification Scheme to help change the way autism is seen, create a Wales that works for all autistic people and break down the barriers which prevent autistic people from participating fully in society.

The council is very proud to support Autism Wales in its mission to make a fairer, more inclusive and diverse Wales. The more people who are talking about autism, the more we will inspire organisations across Wales to be more aware.

While the past 12 months have been difficult for anyone looking for a job, being autistic adds further challenges so it’s important for us all to be mindful of the simple changes we can make to be Autism Aware. Pre-coronavirus, autism had the lowest employment rates of all disability groups in the UK at just 15%.

I would encourage businesses and organisations to take part in the Autism Aware Certification Scheme, which will encourage them to think differently about how they run their businesses and what they can to do help ensure those with a neurodevelopmental condition are treated equally and fairly.

Councillor Dhanisha Patel, Bridgend County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Future Generations

For more information about the campaign and to see the accompanying film, visit the Autism Wales website.

Western Bay runs an Integrated Autism Service to support people with autism across Bridgend County Borough, as well as Neath Port Talbot and Swansea. For more information about the services offered, visit the Western Bay website.