Politicians appointed 'Autism Ambassadors'

Tuesday 24 September 2019

Two States Members have been named the island's first ever 'Autism Ambassadors' to ensure those with the condition are given a louder political voice.

Senator Lyndon Farnham and Senator Kristina Moore are the first politicians to hold the newly-created role, which aims to support the work of the Autism Jersey Advisory Council.

The Council was launched earlier this year not only to ensure that autistic islanders have a voice in the work of Autism Jersey, but also to ask bigger questions about “key issues facing autism in Jersey."

It puts a strong emphasis on engaging with the community and advocating for change within society, with its three overarching areas of focus being – to advise, recommend and engage.

Pictured: Jonathan Channing, Chair of the Autism Jersey Advisory Council, at the Association of Jersey Charities Awards this weekend.

Jonathan Channing, Council Chair and local digital entrepreneur, said he hopes the new political ambassadors will be “the Council’s voice in the States Assembly advocating for awareness to their colleagues."

They will also be expected to assist the Council in their mission to make Jersey more inclusive for individuals with autism.

“Working collaboratively with Political Ambassadors Senator Lyndon Farnham and Senator Kristina Moore the Council will be able to utilize unprecedented joined-up thinking with our elected officials,” Mr Channing said. “We look forward to developing the relationship further and working alongside both Senators to influence and advocate for change within society.”

The Senators added: “We are very pleased to represent Autism Jersey politically and will work to ensure that the needs of Jersey’s autistic young people and adults are clearly understood by States Members and the wider community.’’

Pictured: The Lieutenant Governor (far right) was present at the ceremony in which Autism Jersey came second in the large charity category.

The good news comes as Autism Jersey celebrates winning second place in the Association of Jersey Charities Awards in the large charity category on Sunday, thanks to the work of the Advisory Council.

Speaking about the accolade, Jonathan commented: "It’s great to have the efforts of the Advisory Council over the past eight months and Autism Jersey’s work over many years which provided a platform for us to launch from being recognised by Association of Jersey Charities.

“The Autism Jersey Advisory Council would not have been possible without the continued support of Autism Jersey Chairman Nick Winsor, whose commitment, leadership and drive has propelled the charity forward for the past eight years.”