Force links with Autism Cymru
Thursday, 09 October, 2008
Dyfed Powys Police is helping its staff learn more about Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
The force has linked with Autism Cymru to launch a card for individuals with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
The card is the size of a credit card and will be issued to individuals with an ASD (including those with Asperger syndrome - a form of high functioning autism) living in the Dyfed Powys Police area.
Individuals with an autistic spectrum disorder may become involved with the police and the criminal justice system due to their vulnerability or because of their difficulties with social interaction and communication.
The idea behind the card is that if a person comes into contact with any of the emergency services they can produce the ASD Attention Card which states that they have an Autism Spectrum Disorder and lists a number of ways in which they may be helped to communicate more effectively in what can often be tense and difficult situations.
The card also contains a special telephone number which emergency services personnel can call for advice, support and information about ASD.
Maggie Bowen, Deputy Chief Executive of Autism Cymru said,'We are delighted to be working in partnership with Dyfed Powys Police on this important project which we hope will assist individuals with ASDs and their families if they come into contact with the police."
Chief Inspector Nigel George said:
"It is important that police officers are able to identify individuals with an ASD. These cards provide a means of doing that and allow us to work closely with Autism Cymru."
