New report says 'more awareness' of autism needed among ethnic minority groups

A report by the National Autistic Society has found that black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities in England need to be more aware of the condition.

The report looked at the challenges faced by families affected by autism and found people from these communities struggled when trying to get a diagnosis, accessing the services they need and feeling supported by their local communities.

The report, called Diverse Perspectives, also identified a 'shame and blame' culture, resulting in some parents choosing to hide away their children.

Those who took part in the report's research group said they felt shame when their child's autism was thought to reflect badly on a family or a parent, as they were being made to feel that their families were judged for not being 'normal'. They said blame was quite common, with many people suggesting the parents had done something wrong to result in the child having autism.

Pam Malhi from Leicester knows this all too well. Her eldest daughter, Aaisha is now almost 19. She was diagnosed as having autism when she was three.

Writing in her blog, Hope Love Autism, Pam writes about the challenges she faces, as well as how positive her journey with Aaisha has been. She's hoping her blog can provide support to other parents in her situation and is now also planning on setting up a support group in the city.