BAVINA SOOKDEO
In Tobago, there exists a source of hope and assistance for individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – Autism Tobago.
A non-governmental organisation, it was founded in 2010 by Dawnette Thomas and foundation members like current trustees Leila Rampersad and Heather Foster.
“The dream was to form a group with a mission to create a space and provide services specifically to children/persons with autism, seeing that the special schools in Tobago at the time did not cater adequately for persons with autism,” said Tobago Autism chairman Ria Paria, in an interview with Newsday.
[caption id="attachment_1078709" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Autism Tobago’s Autism Awareness Walk in Roxborough in 2023. -[/caption]
Autism Tobago is a membership-driven organisation, catering to people with autism ranging from ages three-20-plus and their families.
Although still gathering data on the number of people with autism in Tobago, the organisation estimates that the number of those with autism in Tobago has soared into the hundreds.
“We are certain that the numbers have reached the hundreds, with many of those being newly diagnosed children. However, it should be noted that many are undiagnosed as well,” said Paria.
The organisation operates out of Happy Haven School in Signal Hill.
“Unfortunately, this is not our own space where we can effectively run the business of Autism Tobago, but at this time it allows us to host our monthly whole group meetings,” Paria said. “Ultimately, it is our desire to see Autism Tobago have its own dedicated space where we can effectively serve the needs of the autistic community here in Tobago – in a more multifaceted and streamlined manner.”
Autism Tobago has also used various spaces like the Scarborough Library to hold workshops, training sessions, and family activities. These initiatives aim not only to provide valuable support but also to foster a sense of camaraderie and understanding within the community.
Paria pointed out that its main challenge is not having timely, affordable or sufficient access to therapies and support services that autistic people need.
“Autism Tobago offers direction and guidance to its members when they are seeking out professional services. The services that are currently available are provided through the General Hospital or privately, these include: Speech and language therapies (private and at the hospital), occupational therapy (private and at the hospital), equine therapy (private – Healing with Horses Foundation), behavioural therapy (private) and music therapy (private).”
Autism Tobago embraces individuals with autism and their families, extending its membership to all who seek support and connection. Moreover, the organisation welcomes volunteers willing to contribute their time and efforts, regardless of personal connections to autism.
“We have persons who are trained and qualified as part of our group so parents do receive trusted information from experienced professionals.”
[caption id
