This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
Isle of Wight Council is launching a consultation in November about the future of autism services.
The consultation will help shape the Isle of Wight Autism Strategy and will link in with similar strategies being developed in Hampshire, Southampton and Portsmouth as part of the Hampshire Autism Partnership Board.
You can influence future services
By consulting with service users on the content of the strategy, it is hoped that people who have been diagnosed with autism, their parents and carers have the chance to directly influence future autism support services, so that they can continue to live fulfilling and rewarding lives now and in the future.
A launch event is being held between 10am and 5’30pm on 2 November at Downside Community Centre in Newport where further guidance will be provided to users, children, adults, their families, carers and professionals.
At the event, a survey will be launched which will focus on what people think about the current support available on the Island and how it might be improved.
There are an estimated 1,400 people with autism living on the Isle of Wight, the majority living with the support of family carers.
Supporting communities to take more responsibility for themselves
Roger Mazillius, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for adult social care said “The council and its partners are looking to ensure we continue to support the most vulnerable people in the community including families and adults with disabilities.
“This consultation will allow the council to support individuals and communities to take more responsibility for themselves and each other so that they are less dependent on public services.
An online survey will also be available once the consultation gets underway, or you can phone 01983 823653 to be sent a paper based copy.
The consultation runs from 2 November until Monday 19 December 2011.
