Autism: New NI watchdog appointed to monitor services

Mrs Cubitt said she was honoured to take on the responsibility.

Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster’s Evening Extra programme, Mrs Cubitt said she was a mother and a carer in a neuro-divergent family.

“It hasn’t been easy. My family is great but out in the world things aren’t as they should be,” she said.

She described the challenges of getting access to education and the right GP..

“That’s really what motivates me and I can personally assure the public that I am wholly invested and dedicated to making changes,” she added.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said he understood the importance of this post for autistic people and their families.

“We all have a responsibility and a role to play in ensuring that autistic people and their families can feel understood, accepted, and supported within our communities and in the delivery of our services,” he said.

“My department will continue to work in partnership across government departments, the health and social care sector, public bodies and the community and voluntary sector, to make this happen.”