Croydon Council has taken steps to improving autism awareness by launching an online training program about the condition.

The program offers advice and training on how to deal with autism in day-to-day situation.

RELATED: Autistic children ‘put at risk’ by lengthy diagnosis waiting times and lack of support

Last month a report from Healthwatch Croydon found autistic children were being put at risk by lengthy waiting times for diagnosis and treatment, with some parents waiting up to 18 months for a referral by their child’s doctor.

The report, Autism: The Experience of Children and Young People in Croydon, also found a lack of post-diagnosis support led to children self-harming, binge-eating and experimenting with drugs.

Councillor Andrew Rendle, Croydon’s autism champion, has two autistic children and knows first-hand the struggles people can face when dealing with the condition.

He said: “We want as many people as possible in Croydon to take the course because one in a hundred of the population are on the autism spectrum.

“A lot of people, especially parents, don’t want to go out with their autistic children in case they have a meltdown.

“I have been out and my kids have had a meltdown and you get looks and comments so it can be really tough for people.

“They see the world differently and communicate differently but if there is that awareness in the general population is helps.

Cllr Rendle added: “Autistic people can live a very isolated life and that is not good for health or mental health.

“Raising awareness helps people on the spectrum in their daily life.”

Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet member for families, health and social care, said: “Our new course gives people an excellent and clear introduction to and awareness of autism.

“This condition affects almost one per cent of the population in some way. It’s not something that can be cured, but once it is recognised, those who suffer from it can be supported and helped to cope.”

Charlie Ladyman, chief executive of Healthwatch Croydon, said: “Autism services have been historically underfunded compared to neighbouring boroughs.

“Healthwatch Croydon hosted an ‘Children with Autism’ event last month and heard how many people with autism find health professionals, teachers, leisure centres and hospitality staff lack knowledge in understanding autism.

“Awareness training is important. Professionals who are trained in autism awareness will be able to provide a better service.

“Hopefully through forward-planning in schools and raising awareness in our culture parents with children with autism will feel more supported.”

The project is been funded by a grant from the Department of Health and developed with the support of families and those using autism support services.

Access to the module is free for anyone living or working in Croydon and £20 for anyone accessing the site from elsewhere.

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