Lowdown on lockdown

Clare Haughey hears how autistic adults and carers have coped

JONATHAN GEDDES

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey recently joined an online group of autistic adults and carers to hear about their experiences of lockdown.

The chat with Ms Haughey, who is also Scotland’s Mental Health Minister and has responsibilty for autism and learning disabilities, came as new research revealed how the disruption resulting from the pandemic and the lockdown had been very challenging for autistic people, 70 per cent of whom are struggling with mental health difficulties and often intense anxiety.

A study by the National Autistic Society Scotland also found that two-thirds of autistic people in Scotland feel socially isolated and this was before social distancing was introduced.

The Scottish Government recently awarded the charity funds to provide specialist and moderated online social groups to reach as many autistic people, carers and families as possible.

Ms Haughey said: “We know that autistic people find the huge changes in their daily lives more difficult to deal with than many other people.

“Taking part in one of the Society’s online social groups today was a great opportunity to hear directly from autistic people and their families on how the lockdown restrictions have affected them.

“Through our national strategy, we will continue our work to improve the lives of people with autism and ensure everyone gets the care and support they need.”

Online social groups allow staff to share information on staying safe and healthy as well as helping those with mental health needs and anxieties.

In addition, they also offer a safe and secure place where autistic people can connect and talk about whatever is important to them.

There are specific groups focused on film and TV, gaming, craft, Lego, politics, quizzes as well as groups for young people, older people, carers, women as well as people from the LGBT+ community.

Nick Ward, director, National Autistic Society Scotland, added: “We were delighted that the Minister could join one of our online groups to hear directly from autistic people as to the challenges they face at this difficult time.

“Our online social groups offer a safe a secure space where people can meet and talk about the things that are important to them, form meaningful relationships and feel more connected.”

For more information and to sign up for an online group, email ScotlandSocialGroups@nas.org. uk for details.