SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan has supported a new campaign at Westminster by The National Autistic Society aimed at improving public understanding of autism.
As part of their ‘Too Much Information’ campaign, the charity has released a report (Too Much Information: why the public needs to understand autism better) which revealed how poor public understanding of autism is pushing autistic people and their families into isolation.
The National Autistic Society has also released a short film, shot from the point of view of a child on the autism spectrum experiencing ‘too much information’ as he walks through a shopping centre. It shows how painful and overwhelming it is for the boy - and how much more difficult it is when people make nasty remarks or throw judgmental glares at him and his mother. The film
Mr Durkan said: “The National Autistic Society’s important report shows why we must work harder to improve public understanding of autism. No-one should ever feel so misunderstood that they sometimes can’t leave their home.
“That’s why I'm delighted to support the Too Much Information campaign and would encourage my constituents to learn a little bit more about autism.
“Indeed, a basic understanding of autism could help open up the world for autistic people and their families in Derry and throughout the North.”
To watch the short film or find out more about the ‘Too Much Information’ campaign visit www.autism.org.uk
Photo shows Mr Durkan supporting the ‘Too Much Information’ campaign with star of the short film Alex Marshal and National Autistic Society Ambassador Robyn Steward.
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