WRITTEN STATEMENT BY THE WELSH GOVERNMENT – Improvements in autism services
When the Assembly debated autism services this July, Members acknowledged that services are improving and Members wanted to see our reforms being delivered at pace. In April, I issued a Written Statement about the areas where we are making progress. I committed to the publication of the independent evaluation on the Integrated Autism Service […]
WLGA Press Release – Consultation period extended for South East Wales sensory and communication support service review
Extra time has been given for an independent review into the delivery of South East Wales’ regional sensory and communication service to gather more evidence from relevant stakeholders. Known as SENCOM, the service is currently delivered regionally across Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Newport, Monmouthshire and Torfaen. It supports additional learning needs in specialised areas including speech, […]
WLGA Press Release – Another productive year for the National Autism Team
The National Autism Team’s Annual Report 2018/19 has been published today, showing the breadth of the work completed throughout Wales. Formerly named the National ASD Development Team, the National Autism Team has undertaken a range of work programmes to help raise awareness and understanding of autism and support autistic people and their families and carers. […]
NEWS RELEASE: WMC HOSTS ITS FIRST MAJOR ‘RELAXED PERFORMANCE’ WITH MADAGASCAR THE MUSICAL
Wales Millennium Centre will present its first relaxed performance of a large-scale musical in the main 1,800 seat Donald Gordon Theatre this summer. The matinee performance of Madagascar The Musical on Thursday 8th August 2019 is specially designed for people who may find going to the theatre challenging, including those with an autistic spectrum condition, […]
WLGA Press Release – “Inspirational” role of parents and carers of autistic children recognised for Carers’ Week
As part of Carers’ Week this year, Councillor Huw David (Bridgend) WLGA Spokesperson for Health and Social Care has recognised the remarkable role played by parents and carers of autistic children. Councillor David said: “Being a parent or carer is an inspirational role which requires unwavering empathy, devotion and commitment – and for no-one is […]
Cardiff University News – Award for system that helps professionals spot signs of child autism
A system that helps professionals spot the signs of autism in children has been crowned ‘People’s Choice’ at Cardiff University’s Innovation and Impact (I&I) Awards. Researchers from the School of Psychology worked with Welsh Government, the Welsh Local Government Association and Public Health Wales to develop SIGNS – an acronym to help frontline specialists recognise […]
Cardiff University News – Award for system that spots SIGNS of autism
A system that helps medical professionals spot the signs of autism in children has won an award for innovation. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a life-long neurodevelopmental condition usually diagnosed in early childhood. However, medical professionals can miss early signs of ASD, leading to delays in referral, diagnosis and crucial support at school and home. […]
Job Vacancy – National Autism Research and Improvement Officer
The WLGA is looking for an enthusiastic and knowledgeable individual to join the National Autism Team based in Cardiff. The post will involve research into the tools; pedagogy; and resources that successfully support those individuals working with and developing individuals with autism, which will include effective collation and monitoring of data. It will also support […]
WLGA Press Release – WLGA and Data Cymru achieve Autism Aware status
The WLGA and Data Cymru have both achieved ‘Autism Aware’ status, following successful completion of a training programme by the National Autism Team. For an organisation to successfully achieve ‘Autism Aware’ status, it must have demonstrated its commitment by ensuring that a significant proportion of its staff members have undertaken and successfully completed the […]
WLGA Press Release – First of its kind event to promote autistic wellbeing
Autistic people came together on Wednesday, coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day, at Swansea’s Liberty Stadium in an exciting event to learn more about wellbeing and how to live independent lives. Over 150 autistic people were welcomed to the conference, which was developed and co-produced by autistic individuals. The packed agenda for the day featured […]
Welsh Government – Written Statement: Independent Evaluation of the National Integrated Autism Service and Refreshed Autism Spectrum Disorder Strategic Action Plan
The Welsh Government is investing in the development of new and innovative autism services to improve autism provision. To ensure our reforms are achieving the results we all want to see, we have commissioned an independent evaluation of the implementation and impact of the National Integrated Autism Service. To inform our stakeholders of the progress […]
WLGA Press Release – More support for parents and carers of newly diagnosed autistic children
A new film is being launched today by the National Autism Team which aims to support parents and carers of newly-diagnosed autistic children. Feedback from autistic people and other stakeholders has indicated that there is a gap in support and guidance in the period immediately after diagnosis. Clinicians and professionals will be able […]