A new programme has been launched to raise awareness of autism among primary school children in Wales.

The Welsh Government-funded initiative has been developed by Caerphilly, Newport and Torfaen councils and the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA).

Run by the WLGA in partnership with Public Health Wales, it was launched this week to coincide with the start of a 12-week consultation on the revised autistic spectrum disorder strategic action plan.

The plan will pave the way for a national service aimed at supporting children and adults with autism.

Cllr Huw David, deputy leader of Bridgend Council and WLGA spokesperson for health and social care, said: ‘The WLGA is extremely proud to host this programme which has a lead role to play in providing a friendly, accessible and reliable source of information and advice about autism in Wales. 

‘The new resources being developed for “Learning with Autism”, including specialist films and a new-look website, will all help to engage primary school staff to ensure a greater level of understanding and awareness of autism within our schools.

‘We also welcome the Welsh Government’s launch of its refreshed autistic spectrum disorder strategic action plan, and look forward to working closely with them in the future to build on the success of their previous action plan which was the first of its kind in the UK.’