Autism Initiatives are pleased to announce the start of a brand new three year health & wellbeing project in the Blackpool and Fylde Coast region.
The innovative project which includes the funding of a specialist role, aims to enable autistic adults and young people to understand and support their own health and wellbeing, improving their quality of life.
Autism practice specialist Carrie Gill, who is leading this project said: “Funding from Walk for Autism has made this valuable project possible and we would like to thank all the walkers and sponsors for their support. Good health and well-being is important for everyone, yet autistic people are often more adversely affected by health related issues. This project aims to have a lasting positive impact on these vital aspects of life.”
Carrie continued: “As part of this project we were delighted to appoint Sam Shakeshaft to the role of Local Health & Wellbeing Lead. Sam’s role will include working directly with autistic people on a one to one basis as well as with staff teams to promote understanding of the benefits of healthy lifestyles for physical and mental wellbeing.”
Autistic people experience health inequalities that reduce their life expectancy significantly compared to neuro-typical people, as reported by LeDeR (the national Learning Disability and Autism Mortality Review).
While this is shocking, it is important to recognise that many of these adverse health outcomes are avoidable and can be addressed through appropriate levels of preventive health care, support, and lifestyle changes.
The introduction of this role aims to reduce health inequalities through early identification, prevention and better communication. It’s all about supporting people to expand their opportunities, have new experiences and, understand how they can positively influence their own physical and mental well-being.
We look forward to keeping you updated with more information about this project and its impact in the months to come.
Are you interested in helping to support autism projects like this one in the UK and Ireland? Then step up to the Walk for Autism 2022 challenge today at www.walkforautism.co.uk
Help fund other autism projects, step up to the Walk for Autism challenge today
