Safeguards needed to protect those with autism, paper concludes
October is Autism Awareness Month
BOWMANVILLE, ON, Oct 5 /CNW/ - As Canada recognizes Autism Awareness Month, Kerry's Place Autism Services and ROCG Consulting have released a paper highlighting the need for more safeguards to protect those with autism and other intellectual disabilities.
The paper cites the 2005 death of Tiffany Pinckney, a Mississauga, Ontario woman with autism. Tiffany died of starvation in her sister's basement at the age of 23. After criminal proceedings, a review into her death made recommendations to prevent future tragedies.
"We need to recognize that there are some unique challenges when balancing the rights, risks and responsibilities of caregivers and those who have Autism Spectrum Disorder," says Leslie Yeates of ROCG Consulting, one of the paper's authors..
Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It is a lifelong disorder that affects the development and functioning of the brain in the areas of communication, social interaction and behaviour. People with autism are sometimes unable to express their needs, leading to frustration and behavioural problems, sometimes requiring interventions which impact their ability to exercise personal rights.
"We must establish an environment where it is safe for people to openly discuss difficult topics, weigh options, and permit some level of risk," the report concludes.
KPAS serves Peel/Halton, Dufferin, Durham, York/Simcoe, Toronto and Hastings.
About ROCG Consulting
ROCG Consulting's Performance Improvement Specialists work with governments, publicly funded organizations and community groups, helping them increase their organization's efficiency and effectiveness.,
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For copies of the paper, contact:
Leslie Yeates
ROCG Consulting
(905) 579-5659
Email: [email protected]
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