A parent of a profoundly autistic child is calling for greater understanding of the condition from the public, and improved support from the Manx Government.

Alan Desmond and his wife have a 14 year old son who is profoundly autistic, and says their needs are not being met.

Mr Desmond claims there is no long-term plan for dealing with autism, and a lack of co-ordination between departments.

The government says it has a number of initiatives in the pipeline, which will be revealed in the coming months.

However, General Manager for people with learning disabilities, Tony Lever, admits there are shortcomings at present:

There will be a half hour special on the subject of autism on Manx Radio's Perspective programme, from just after 6pm tomorrow (Thurs).