Top MPs in live online chat with families of children with autism

Published by Nia for Tree House in Central Government and also in Communities, Education, Health, Local Government

Top MPs took part in live online chats yesterday (Tuesday 30 March) to talk directly to families of children with autism, answering their questions about the issues that affect their lives.
MPs who took part were Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and Poole North and the Liberal Democrats’ Spokesperson for Children and Young People; and Diana Johnson, Labour MP for Hull North and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families.

They answered questions live on talkaboutautism.org.uk, an online community hosted by TreeHouse, the national charity for autism education.

Annette Brooke said: “Autism now affects one in 100 children in the UK which is why it’s so important to listen to the families who are affected about what they need which is why TreeHouse’s live online chat was so beneficial to all those involved.”
Diana Johnson said: “I would like to thank TreeHouse for providing me with this opportunity as the live web chat made it possible to hear the views of so many parents from all over the country. There have been some major steps forward in recent years improving services for children with special educational needs such as autism but of course, there is still more to be done. This Government is working hard to ensure that children with autism are able to learn and thrive and their families feel supported.”

Sasha Daly, Senior Policy and Parliamentary Manager at TreeHouse said: “TreeHouse is organising a series of live online chats with politicians from all major political parties because this is a real opportunity for families to let politicians know directly about the issues that matter the most to them. One in 100 children in the UK have autism with over half a million family members directly affected and this is a chance for them to put forward ideas for improving education for young people with autism, and to find out how the different political parties’ policies will work for them. So join us at www.talkaboutautism.org.uk to take part in the discussion.”

“TreeHouse has just released its 2010 Parliamentary Briefing which sets out the changes we believe are needed to make a difference for children and young people with autism and their families. Through our live online chats you have the opportunity to debate these calls and hear your own suggestions for change.”