Hussey concerned that children with autism are not receiving the support they need
May 3, 2012
Ulster Unionist MLA, Ross Hussey has called on the Ministers for Health and Education to work together to ensure that children with autism are receiving adequate support.
Ross said:
"I was extremely concerned to learn that whilst autism currently has a A* SEN rating, 80% parents think that the lack of support given to their autistic children has damaged their children's social and communication skills, while 65% think a lack of support has damaged their children's mental health.'
"I took the opportunity to press the Minister for Health, Edwin Poots on this issue during Question Time. I asked if the he had discussed the reform of the special education needs system - particularly the services for children with autism - with the Minister for Education.'
"I was informed by the Minister that the Department for Health are working on a whole-life, cross departmental strategy for people with autism which will be published in May 2013. I, and my Party look forward to seeing this document come before the House and we will provide the appropriate scrutiny to ensure it is fit for purpose.'
"There is an urgent need for the Departments of Health and Education to work more closely together to ensure that children with autism are receiving all the support they need. So far the failure to do so has been to the detriment to the wellbeing of those children.'
