Mayo community seeking 'Autism-friendly' status

Donna Hyland, a Mayo local election candidate, has welcomed the news that the community of Balla is working towards becoming an Autism Friendly Town.

Ahead of the Balla Autism Friendly Town launch by Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm, tomorrow, Hyland said: “I think the launch will be an official recognition of the key work carried out by the community to make Balla and the surrounding areas more inclusive.

"It is important that local communities are empowered to foster inclusion and Balla Autism Friendly Town builds on the leadership taken by local sports clubs and community groups such as Manulla FC and the Mayo Autism Camp.

"It is great to see that a communications board for children with special needs is in place at Balla playground and that Balla Community Resource Development company promotes the essential role of Autism Champions in the community.

“Over the next couple of months the sensory garden will officially open in Balla, and Balla community centre has a new portable sensory hub for community use.

"These types of initiatives are a great benefit to the entire community.”