The Sinneave Family Foundation welcomes the newly released National Autism Strategy
September 26, 2024
The Government of Canada has officially launched the Framework for Autism in Canada, Canada’s Autism Strategy, and opened applications for a National Autism Network.
This announcement marks a key milestone towards ensuring Autistic people in Canada are accepted, included, and supported to live fully throughout their lives, from childhood through adulthood.
The release of the National Autism Strategy brings hope, and we want to congratulate and thank Canada’s autism community for their tireless advocacy, which has no doubt been a significant factor leading up to this announcement.
While this is an important milestone for Autistic Canadians and their families, we recognize there is still work to be done. Sinneave looks forward to working with governments and communities to translate this plan into meaningful action and tangible outcomes.
Below is a summary of key points from the announcement to help you understand what it means for you.
Canada’s Autism Strategy is a multi-year action plan to help the federal government implement the Framework. It focuses on short- and medium-term initiatives and builds on existing programs and measures to address key priorities. The Strategy is intended to be updated on a regular basis to meet the changing needs of Autistic people in Canada.
Developed collaboratively with Autistic people, their families, caregivers, provinces, territories, Indigenous organizations and other stakeholders, these initiatives will require coordinated efforts across all levels of government as well as many partners, organizations, and individuals whose work touches on autism-related initiatives. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to advance the needs of Autistic people in Canada.
Click on the image to the right to learn more about the Strategy.
Cover artist: Raymund Gabriel Concon
The Framework for Autism in Canada outlines guiding principles and best practices to shape national autism policy, programs and activities in Canada. It builds on the Government of Canada’s leadership role to advance best practices that support Autistic people of all ages, their families and caregivers.
The goal of the Framework is to promote the health and well-being of Autistic people, their advocates, families, and caregivers throughout their lives.
Click on the image below to learn more about the Framework.
The National Autism Network will unite autism organizations, stakeholders, and people with lived experience from across Canada to help carry out the Framework and Strategy and address key priorities.
The network will be established as a stand-alone, not-for-profit organisation grounded in inclusivity. This means that autistic people are meaningfully involved in implementing both the Framework and the Strategy, ensuring that initiatives are relevant, practical and effective.
Eligible organizations may respond to the call for applications for the Network by November 25, 2024.
Click on the image below to learn more about applying for funding to establish the Network.
Sinneave is dedicated to working with governments and communities to ensure this strategy is not just a promise, but a pathway to positive impact for Autistic individuals and families.
If you would like to read the official Government of Canada news release, you can find that HERE.