AN EVENT to raise awareness about autism within the African Caribbean community is set to take place in north London later this month.
It has been organised by the not-for-profit GUBA (Ghana UK-based Achievement) Foundation, whose aim is to empower and inspire African communities, in the UK and abroad.
The foundation cares for those diagnosed with autism across all ages, and the event on April 27, at the Bernie Grant Arts Centre, in Tottenham, will give parents and carers an opportunity to talk directly about their experiences.
The GUBA Foundation’s chief executive and founder, Dentaa, said: “GUBA Foundation’s Family Focus event aims to fill that gap by providing parents with a forum to discuss their everyday challenges, network with those sharing similar experiences and put their burning questions to experts within the fields of social care, finance, education and health. It’s an event that shouldn’t be missed.”
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects communication and social interaction.
The spectrum of the condition is very broad affecting people at different degrees.
Some have learning disabilities and require more support, while others, such as those with Asperger syndrome, have advanced language skills, and are able to live independently.
The condition affects one in every 100 people in the UK, which means over 100,000 are from the black or ethnic minority (BME) communities.
GUBA research shows that the BME community are typically diagnosed later than their white counterparts, and are more likely to face more of an uphill struggle trying to seek support.
It is believed that the social stigma attached to autism and other mental health issues is preventing parents from coming forward to seek support.
On the day, there will be discussions from experts on accessing financial and emotional support and information on volunteer mentors.