Programme aims to tackle problems of underachievement, bullying, and mental health
SCOTTISH AUTISM yesterday announced the launch of a new online programme aimed specifically at women and girls, to provide guidance to those on the autistic spectrum and their families.
The charity’s intiative is part of ‘Right Click’, a series of online programmes in place since 2012, which acts as an online hub for resources, information and advice. Scottish Autism’s new initiative has a particular focus on women and girls, in recognition of the specific challenges they can face living with autism.
The programme, developed in conjunction with people on the autistic spectrum, will soon be available online, and those interested can sign up for updates. It includes tips shared by women on how to cope with the condition, and advice on topics like employment, relationships and parenting.
“So many parents of girls and women on the autism spectrum are seeking help, advice and resources and, up until now, these have been lacking.” Dr Catriona Stewart
Charlene Tait, Director of Development at Scottish Autism, said:
“While we focus on helping all people with autism – male or female – through their whole life journey, the Women and Girls Right Click Programme is designed to help address some of the specific challenges faced by females living on the spectrum. Research shows the consequences of under-diagnosis and poor levels of understanding or awareness of the needs of this particular group can make them especially vulnerable.
“There are negative outcomes, identified in the limited research that has been done on females autism, which can have a hugely detrimental impact on their lives but this is by no means an inevitability. We believe that support through new programmes like this one can help females living with the condition develop and progress so they can get the most out of life.”
Dr Catriona Stewart, co-facilitator of the Scottish Women's Autism Network (SWAN), was involved in developing the online programme. She said: “So many parents of girls and women on the autism spectrum are seeking help, advice and resources and, up until now, these have been lacking.
“This new programme builds on the real lives of females in the autism community who have shared their experiences and knowledge which is now accessible to help girls and women who live with the condition as well as their families and carers.”
Picture courtesy of Scottish Autism