Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership signals support for autism awareness
Fri, February 05, 2021
Causeway Coast and Glens Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) welcomed representatives from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust’s Autism services to its latest virtual meeting as it aims to reach out to people living with disabilities.
Members heard an engaging presentation from Jayne Colville, who provided an overview of the role and priorities of the service and the work of the Northern Area Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Forum.
Latest figures from the Department for Health show that 4.2% of school aged children were recorded with an autism diagnosis in 2019/20.
Speaking after the meeting, PCSP Chairperson Oliver McMullan said: “As a lifelong disability champion I’m committed to seeing our Partnership expand its support for the most vulnerable within our society to ensure they feel safe and valued.
“This was a very worthwhile opportunity for members to learn more about ASD services which are active in our area, along with the opportunities which exist for proactive collaboration to increase awareness, understanding and accessibility for those living with autism.
“During the meeting the PSNI signalled its commitment to autism-awareness and last year there was tremendous uptake from the business community for JAM Card* training offered by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. Looking ahead, we should strive to become an autism-friendly Borough as part of a commitment to deliver for all people within our communities.”
Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP now wants to develop a specific scheme to help those living with disabilities stay safe and feel secure. It’s calling on individuals with special needs or disabilities, along with those who support them, to get involved in shaping a new community safety focused initiative. To take part in the consultation process please contact the PCSP by emailing pcsp@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk or ring 028 7034 7034.