AN event to mark World Autism Awareness Day will be held this Wednesday to support more than 1,500 people in St Helens who have the condition.

St Helens Council will be hosting the gathering event at the World of Glass.

It is estimated that more than 1,500 people in St Helens have some form of Autism Spectrum Disorder and the event will focus on providing information on the range of support services available across the borough.

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability affecting social and communications skills.

The term ‘autism’ reflects the full spectrum and includes Asperger Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, Pervasive Development Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Autism Spectrum Condition.

Current statistics show that ablout 1 in 100 children is diagnosed with autism.

Councillor Sue Murphy, Cabinet Member for Schools and Lifelong Learning, said: “The council has an ambition for all people with autism in St Helens to have the same opportunities as anyone else to live fulfilling and rewarding lives.

"This is based around a good education and the provision of high quality health and care services into and beyond adulthood.”

The event will be open to all from 10am to 1pm and will provide information, advice and examples of St Hellens Council's work in schools, care services and the voluntary and Community Sector.

This will be followed from 1-4pm with an awareness raising training event designed for professionals and peolple with autism, as well as parents/carers and volunteers.