Andrew Turner the Island’s MP is helping to bring the first ever autism law a step closer this Friday by supporting a Bill currently going through Parliament. The Autism Bill is backed by The National Autistic Society (NAS) and 13 other autism charities. It needs 100 MPs to vote in favour on 26th February in order to progress towards the statute book. Mr Turner has pledged to be there to support it on behalf of local people affected by the condition.

Fridays are usually a day that MPs can spend working in the constituency but this Friday the House of Commons will be considering and voting on a number of Private Members Bills. Such bills usually stand little chance of becoming law but this one has a good chance of success if enough MPs support it. The Autism Bill aims to ensure that children and adults with autism receive proper and effective support to cope with their condition and to end the current postcode lottery of services across the UK.

Mr Turner said:
“Many children and adults living with autism don’t receive the help they need to reach their full potential, and at least 1 in 3 adults with the condition experience serious mental health difficulties as a result. This is one of those areas where we should be spending money dealing with the root of the problem rather than the effects – and at the same time transforming the lives of autism sufferers and their families. Last year I sponsored an exhibition in Parliament entitled ‘Inside Outside’ which showcased the work of Island artists, craftspeople and their families who live with autism – many of my colleagues were impressed with the work and the barriers that these Islanders have overcome. I do hope that this Bill gains enough support to progress on Friday.”

Mark Lever, Chief Executive of the NAS, said;
“We are delighted to have the support of Andrew Turner MP and strongly urge other MPs to follow his lead. The Autism Bill is a huge step forward in ensuring a brighter future for people with this serious, lifelong and disabling condition, but we urgently need support to make this law. Without the right help autism can have a profound and sometimes devastating effect and we will keep campaigning until we see real change at a local level.”

END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808