Free ‘Understanding Autism’ seminar supports families
Today more than 40 Geelong parents, carers, grandparents and other family members joined us at our free ‘Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder’ seminar to learn more to help them better support a person with autism spectrum disorder.
The free seminar is part of Gateways Support Services Strengthening Parent Support education and training program.
Gateways Support Services CEO, Rosemary Malone said that training sessions such as these aim to support families and carers and also increase awareness of autism in the community.
“A large part of our role at Gateways is providing support and education to parents and carers of people living with a disability or additional need, to help them build their skills to understand and better support their loved one. We also play an important role in helping to raise awareness of autism in the community, as we know a greater understanding of autism promotes a more inclusive society. ” Mrs Malone said.
The seminar was presented by Gateways Complex Support Coordinator and Autism Trainer, Gail Willett, who has experience as an Autism Case Consultant Practitioner and has also provided families and professionals with information and training about autism over a number of years.
“As no two people with autism are the same and all experience the world differently, sessions like today are also a good opportunity for participants to share experiences, learn new things and explore ways to help the person they know with autism.” Mrs Willett said.
She added that the feedback we received from today’s group was overwhelmingly positive.
“It is always pleasing to hear parents and grandparents so appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about autism, and expressing the need for others to understand the disability,” Mrs Willett said.
In a first for Gateways, today’s session was also filmed and will soon be available to watch online following the event for families unable to attend.
“Thanks to the support of our community partner Westfield Geelong, many more Gateways parents and carers in the region will be able to benefit from this valuable resource which will shortly be available to watch online at our website,” Rosemary Malone added.
