Autism, Access and Inclusion on the Front Line:
Confessions of an Autism Anorak
Matthew Hesmondhalgh
Synopsis
Working towards greater access and inclusion in education and employment for young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD's) continues to be a challenge with varying degrees of success. Matthew Hesmondhalgh outlines the inherent problems with improving services for people on the autism spectrum, from specialised schooling to supported living schemes and examines the social issues and attitudes that people with ASD's confront in so many aspects of life. The author draws on his own experience of working at The Integrated Resource, which offers educational opportunities for secondary school aged pupils with ASD's and provides a charity funded supported employment programme for young adults with ASD's. He includes a host of case examples of young people and their parents who have fought battles for inclusion, explaining the obstacles they faced, their failures and their inspiring successes. "Autism, Access and Inclusion on the Front Line" is a frank and honest appraisal of service provision for young people with ASD's that will both inform and encourage parents and professionals.
About the Author
Matthew Hesmondhalgh worked in three special schools in South Yorkshire before becoming teacher in charge and project leader for The Resource at King Ecgbert School in 1995.
