EMMA RODDICK MSP TALKS EDUCATION, ACCESSIBILITY AND POLICY WITH AUTISM RIGHTS GROUP HIGHLAND

As part of her busy recess schedule, Highlands & Islands MSP Emma Roddick met with Autism Rights Group Highland (ARGH) this week to discuss the local campaigning group’s work in the Highlands.

The group, which is run by and for autistic adults, campaigns for better services for autistic people and works to challenge stigma and discrimination through education. A member of the European Council for Autistic People, the group is not only working locally in the Highlands but internationally as well.

Ms Roddick said she was delighted to meet with members of the group to discuss crucial topics like education on autism, support in schools, and how groups like ARGH can have a positive influence on government policy.

She said:

“It was great to meet up with members of Autism Rights Group Highland and hear about all the fantastic work they are doing to push for better services for autistic people and influence real positive change.

“We had such a great discussion, delving into crucial topics like education and support in schools, empowering campaign groups like ARGH to influence government policy, and even touching on how accessible the Scottish Parliament which is something that I recently highlighted as needing improvement during a debate on the parliament’s Gender Sensitive Audit.

“It really is fantastic to see a group run for and by autistic people in the Highlands, where we know folk too often feel isolated and left behind. To know that autistic folk here have a real voice through this group is hugely positive and reassuring.

“Inclusive practices and policies are best achieved by engaging directly with those with lived experience and that is why groups like ARGH are so important.”