All about autism

DISTINGUISH between autistic fact and fiction at Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre to mark World Autism Awareness Day.

Guided tours, which explore the library’s new collection of autism resources, take place on Thursday from 10.30am when visitors will also be shown books, DVDs and information leaflets.

The collection has moved from its old home at Rock Street Resource Centre to the library giving the public access to more than 100 autism titles six days a week.

World Autism Awareness Day aims to increase and develop our knowledge of the condition as well as celebrating the unique talents and skills of sufferers.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability which makes it difficult for sufferers to communicate and interact with others.

It is sometimes referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because it affects individuals in different ways.

While some are able to live relatively normal lives, others will require a lifetime of specialist support.

Councillor Brian Lord, Cabinet member for adult services and health, said: “Having the autism resources in Oldham Library and Lifelong Learning Centre shows our commitment to delivering services to support the health and well-being of those affected by ASD.

“The collection will now be available under one roof and at more convenient times.”

Library staff will give a guided tour of the building’s facilities and show visitors how to join the library on the day.

A further induction session will also be held on Thursday, April 16, at 10.30am.

Each tour will last for around 30 minutes and there’s no need to book in advance.

Oldham Council recently announced a partnership with the National Autistic Society (NAS) which will see 500 staff taking part in autism awareness training next year.

The “Autism and Me, Autism and You” conference at the end of January was a huge success which saw more than 350 professionals and family members flock to the Queen Elizabeth Hall to talk about autism and how it affects their lives.