Autism association strengthens services with new centre

The Barbados Autism Association has secured a permanent home after 21 years of operation, marking a significant step forward in support services for persons on the autism spectrum.

The new facility, located at the corner of Dayrells Road and Garrison Road, St Michael, opened on Thursday night and will serve as both the organisation’s headquarters and a life skills training centre aimed at improving independence among its members.

President of the Barbados Autism Association Frederick Johnson described the opening as a major milestone built on years of advocacy and support from government, partners, donors and families.

“This building is more than walls and rooms. It’s a place where children, teens and adults with autism can feel safe, understood and valued for who they are,” he said.

Johnson stressed that autism must be understood rather than treated as something to be corrected.

“Our job as families, as a community, is not to change autistic people, but to create spaces and give them the tools enabling them and their families to contribute to society,” he said.

He also pointed to a longstanding concern among parents about the future of their children, adding that the facility represents “a first step toward something bigger” in addressing long-term care and independence.

Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Adrian Forde described the development as a national achievement, the result of sustained advocacy and collaboration. He said autism should not be viewed as a limitation, noting that individuals can thrive with the right support.

“Autism is not a block. Once we give persons the right opportunity, God’s work will be allowed to shine,” he said, while reaffirming that access to care and support remains a right.

Minister of Finance Ryan Straughn said the initiative forms part of a broader policy shift towards coordinated support for families.

“We want to see that work continue,” he said, pointing to the role of the Social Empowerment Agency in delivering more coherent, family-centred services. He also revealed plans to establish trusts to help families secure long-term care for their children, noting that government will work with stakeholders to develop the framework.

Operations Manager of the Barbados Council for the Disabled Roseanne Tudor traced the association’s journey from its establishment in 2004 through periods of progress and dormancy to its revitalisation in 2017.

She said the new centre reflects years of persistence and advocacy, describing it as “far more than walls and structure… it represents stability, it represents opportunity, it represents dignity”.

However, Tudor cautioned that the work must continue. “Progress must never be mistaken for completion,” she said, urging continued advocacy to ensure inclusion becomes a fundamental principle across society.

A pilot programme involving six adults is expected to be launched later this year, targeting individuals transitioning out of the school system and equipping them with practical life skills.

Plans are in place to expand the initiative based on demand, as the association seeks to strengthen support for persons with autism and their families. (SZB)