The Autism Strategy for Northern Ireland “Laying the

Foundations”Policy Summit

Dr. Pat MatthewsIrish Society for Autism

European Charter of Rights for Persons with Autism – 9th May 1966• The right to live independently• The right to representation and involvement

as far as possible in decisions affecting their future

• The right to accessible and appropriate education, housing, assistance and support services

• The right to freedom from fear, threat and abusive treatment

• And that these right should be enhanced and enforced by appropriate legislation in each member state.

World Autism Awareness DayUnited Nations 18th December 2007

• Decided to designate 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day, to be observed every year beginning in 2008.

• Invited all members States, relevant organisations, as well as civil society, including non-governmental organisations, to observe World Autism Awareness Day in an appropriate manner, in order to raise public awareness of autism.

United Nations Resolution 2012• United Nations adopted a resolution on

addressing the socioeconomic needs of people with Autism - 12th December 2012.

• “As is evident in the resolution before the Assembly, those suffering from autism and development disorders needed dedicated and professional support services, and robust public and professional awareness programmes that enabled integration into society. This would require a coherent framework for international cooperation, awareness raising programmes and provision of adequate funding”

• The ASD Strategy plan for Wales 2008

• The Scottish Strategy for Autism 2011

• The Autism Act (Northern Ireland) 2011

• The Autism Bill (Ireland) 2012

• Proposal for a European Strategy for Autism

2013