AN ENNIS based social enterprise will host its first international awareness day next month.
FASD Ireland is highlighting urgent need for greater awareness of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) as it leads an awareness campaign for International FASD Awareness Day on 9th September.
FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) by either parent. Despite HSE estimates that up to 7.4% of the Irish population may live with the condition, FASD remains one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions in Ireland.
Director of Operations at FASD Ireland, Scott Casson-Rennie said, “FASD is a brain-based disability, not a behavioural issue. The lack of awareness means that many individuals especially adults are living without a diagnosis, without support, and are often misunderstood by the very agencies meant to help them”.
On September 9th, FASD Ireland will be holding a free open public event themed Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Adulthood bringing together Employers, HR representatives, third level educators interested in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Neurodiversity. Those attending will learn more about FASD and how some simple accommodations can be made to support people who live with FASD.
September 9th is the chosen date to symbolise the nine months of pregnancy. Leinster House will be lit red for the second year running on the date.
Persons interested in attending can register on FASD Ireland’s website: www.fasdireland.ie/training. The event takes place from 10am until 1pm at the Buttermarket in Ennis.
