Tralee to host forum on autism

NEXT month marks a very important event for the Autism awareness group, Studio 3 Kerry, as they hold a major conference in Tralee.

The ‘Let me grow my own way’ conference, which takes place in The Rose Hotel on June 14, will focus on adults with autism living independently in the community. Forum organisers say they hope to challenge people on their thoughts about how people with autism integrate in the wider world.

Studio 3 Kerry is a branch of the UK-based clinical service Studio 3.

The Kerry branch provides services funded by the HSE and are based in Tralee. This service is client led and bases its services on what people need and are lacking in life.

One of the conference organsisers is Valentia woman Áine Cusack who was inspired to get involved with Studio 3 after she heard the UK service’s CEO, Andy McDonnell, address a previous conference.

After hearing McDonnell discuss the group’s work, Áine and her family bagan a successful campaign to secure funding from the HSE to launch Studio 3 in Kerry.

Áine credits Studio 3’s services and its ‘low arousal clinical approach’ to a major improvement in her son’s condition and a considerable reduction in her son’s anxiety levels.

The June 14 conference at the Rose Hotel has a strong line up with a combination of internationally recognised and local speakers due to contribute.

The conference will focus on how service providers such as carers, families, friends and the public can empower people with autism to live independently in the community.

Tickets are €90 or €30 for family carers and individuals with autism.

For more information on the event or on Studio 3 and its work, contact info@kerry.studio3.org or phone 066-7128872.