Nova Scotia is creating a provincial autism action plan

The Nova Scotia government has asked nearly a dozen departments to work with Autism Nova Scotia to create the province's first autism action plan, a move the advocacy and education group called an important step forward.

The province said the action plan will identify what supports are currently available for youth and adults with autism spectrum disorder and make recommendations to address any gaps in services across the public, private and community sectors.

“Not only is it historic because the autism community has been waiting for this for a long time, but it is also historic because of the nature of the partnership and collaboration ahead,” said Cynthia Carroll, executive director of Autism Nova Scotia.

“The government has convened 10 government agencies to collaborate on this action plan…This has not happened anywhere in Canada when it comes to addressing lifelong issues within the autism community.”

The work's launch took place Wednesday at Autism Nova Scotia's offices in Bedford. The group will receive $200,000 to hire consultants and staff to lead its portion of the work, which includes consultations with individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families and advocates.

“I find it very emotional,” says the group founder

Teen Ethan Rekunyk said he hoped the action plan would lead to more services becoming available throughout his lifetime.

“When I was first diagnosed with autism, I spent years on a waiting list in the province, not knowing if I would get help through this program,” Rekunyk told a packed conference room.

“I hope so [plan] ensures that young children never feel the confusion and chaos I have caused and takes into account the mental and emotional impact it has on all people on the spectrum.”

Joan Craig, who founded Autism Nova Scotia with her husband Jack, said this is something she has dreamed of for nearly 70 years.

“It’s time,” Craig said. “I'm really happy. I find it very emotional.”

Joan Craig is the founder of Autism Nova Scotia and dedicated her life to supporting families facing the challenges of raising autistic children. (CBC)

Craig said no services were available for her son Bob, now 68.

“The world wasn’t ready for him,” said Craig, who hoped the action plan would result in people with autism spectrum disorder receiving the support and care they need “from birth to death.”

The first meeting to develop the plan will take place on Friday. The hope is that the plan will be ready for release in about a year.

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