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Expressions of autism

Published: 18/04/2018

A photographic exhibition to promote a better understanding of Autism is being hosted at Theatr Clwyd in Mold. The exhibition is based on the inspirational photographic work of Ken Ashton, a local artist who has recently been diagnosed as having Autism, having previously found difficulties fitting in to community services. Ken is a key volunteer supporting the development of the North Wales Integrated Autism Service (IAS), a unique Welsh Government initiative to be launched in June 2018. Ken is also keen for fellow artists to contact him with a view to creating a local Artists Hub and he can be contacted via www.sygibney.com Neil Ayling, Chief Officer Social Services said; “Flintshire County Council will be the ‘host’ local authority in North Wales for the IAS Team which will also cover Wrexham, Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd and Anglesey. The IAS Team will provide support to people of all ages with Autism and their families and carers. “Whilst the IAS will be accessible for all ages it will not replace any existing services already established, nor is it a crisis service. The IAS Team will also aim to provide training and advice on Autism to a range of council services and partner agencies. Cllr. Christine Jones, Cabinet Member for Social Services said; “Ken kindly agreed to allow us to use some of his work to promote awareness of Autism in Flintshire and North Wales with the aim of provoking thoughts around meeting, working with or befriending someone in the hope that Autism becomes better understood and accepted within communities across the region to enable people to integrate more positively.” Ken Ashton said; “Since last year I have been involved in helping to establish the IAS and I want to work with services to help make them more accessible for people with Autism like myself. 5% effort from services can help to make 100% difference for Autism integration in the community.” Further information about Autism can be found on the ASDinfoWales website http://www.asdinfowales.co.uk/ Note to Editors Pictured in the attached photograph are; L-R: Cllr Wisinger, Neil, Ayling, Chief Officer Social Services, Jo Taylor, Social Services Manager, Melanie Hough, Flintshire Social Services, Cllr. Christine Jones, Cabinet Member Social Services and Joanne Sefton, social work student.