A major conference on Autism being hosted jointly by Moray Council and NHS Grampian is expected to reach out to the north of Scotland and beyond.
For two days in June the focus will be on Elgin Town Hall and the Eight Acres Hotel with professionals working in the field joining individuals, parents, volunteers and unpaid carers.
Speakers at the conference includes two experts in the autism spectrum who are recognised throughout the world, Dr Olga Bogdashina and Dr Jacqui Jackson, who will take part on both days.
Dr Jackson’s son Luke will also attend – he was diagnosed with Asperger’s and dyspraxia – he went on to write a critically acclaimed book, “Freaks, Geeks and Asperger’s Syndrome”, as well as narrating the highly acclaimed BBC documentary, “My Family and Autism”.
Award winning comedian John Williams – the creator of the “My Son’s not Rainman” blog, will also attend the conference, which will feature a series of seminar sessions over the two days looking at a range of autism-related tops.
Local and national autism organisations and charities will also be in attendance to offer information and support at the event on June 11 at Elgin Town Hall and June 12 at the Eight Acres Hotel.
A spokesman for the conference organisers said: “Our goal is simple – acceptance of, understanding about and celebrating autism.
“Moray has an amazing opportunity. This is the first autism conference to be held here and we are thrilled to host such renowned speakers who bring such an interesting and inspiring programme.
“We really hope this event will reach out to the whole of the north of Scotland and beyond because we want to share awareness of autism far and wide.”
Booking is essential as places are limited. Registration packs and further information are available by e-mailing autism@moray.gov.uk