Access to social grants for people with Autism

ACTION in Autism will host a special meeting and dialogue session with the South African Social Services Agency (SASSA) at 2pm this Saturday, 25 October at St Augustine’s Primary School, Greyville.

The session will provide an opportunity for parents, families and people with autism to voice their concerns and challenges about accessing social grants.

Liza Aziz, a spokesperson for Action in Autism said, “Because most people with autism look physically normal, they have particular difficulties accessing a grant. This is especially prevalent when children and young adults with autism have medium and low level support needs – like people diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome.”

This important meeting will also help educate SASSA personnel on what autism is and will create awareness of the sensitivities in relating to and supporting people on the Autism Spectrum. Parents and family members will also learn how to access a grant and understand the different types of grants.

“We urge all parents and family members of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder to attend this all important meeting and have your voice heard by a government agency,” added Liza Aziz. Younger children can be eligible for a Care Dependency Grant or a grant in aid and older people with autism can qualify for a disability grant.

St Augustine’s Primary School, is situated at 7 John Zikhali (Sydenham) Road, Greyville Durban.

Action in Autism is a non-profit organization that engages and lobbies government departments for better resources and services for children with neurological differences and developmental delays. It also organises regular Skills and Training Workshops for teachers, therapists, parents and caregivers for children with Autism. A free monthly free diagnostic and assessment clinic is held to assist in people with suspected Autism to gain access to proper treatment and interventions. Call Nkanyiso on 031 207 4858 or email info@actioninautism.org.za for more information or to RSVP.