Health Minister appoints NI’s independent Autism Reviewer

Independent Autism Reviewer

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has appointed Northern Ireland’s first independent #Autism Reviewer. Ema Cubitt will take up office in September for a five-year period.  Ema Cubitt was chosen for the job after a public competition and will start in September 2024.

Mrs. Cubitt studied Law and Governance at Ulster University.  She later earned a postgraduate diploma in Legal Studies from Queen’s University, Belfast. Ema has worked as a qualified solicitor for 15 years, gaining a lot of experience in both private practice and public service.

Even though the Department of Health appointed her, Ema will work independently from Northern Ireland Government Departments. As the Independent Autism Reviewer, she will check how well the Autism Strategy is working.  Ema will also review the services provided to autistic people, their families, and carers by government departments, public bodies, and the health and social care sector.

Autism Strategy

Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how people experience, communicate, and interact with the world around them.

The Autism Strategy in Northern Ireland will continue until 2028.  It outlines the main commitments and actions needed to better support autistic people and their families. These actions were shaped by listening to autistic people, their families, and the organizations that support them.

Did you know that our TILII Translates Accessible Information Service created the Easy Read on behalf of the Department of Health?

If you would like to make information more accessible, please contact us.

Did you know that we deliver Autism Awareness training?

Our course is aimed at helping frontline staff effectively support people on the autistic spectrum by:

• knowing the common characteristics of autism and understand that every person with autism is unique
• understanding the sensory needs associated with autism
• understanding the mental health needs associated with autism
• understanding behaviours that are perceived to challenge
• knowing the challenges someone with autism may face with transition and change, and how you can support them
• explore alternative and augmentative communication techniques.

So book your place now.