The Government has made a total of HUF 2 billion (some EUR 6.6 million) available to create a network aimed at improving the living standards of individuals with autism as well as expanding the employment of those with autism or a reduced capacity to work -- Minister for Human Resources Zoltán Balog announced today at a press briefing in Tata (Northwest Hungary) on World Autism Awareness Day.

The governmental funding will be allocated within the framework of two programmes.

Organisations may apply for a total of HUF 1.2 billion (~ EUR 4 million) which will be spent on infrastructure development, sustainable job creation and socio-therapy.

Furthermore, a professional consulting project worth HUF 800 million (~ EUR 2.6 million), preparing individuals with autism for employment and self-reliance as well as promoting their social acceptance and integration, is also available.

Minister Balog said that according to international research, one percent of the population is affected by autism, thus the Government wants to make sure that this area receives allocations according to its social importance.
State Secretary for Social, Family and Youth Affairs Miklós Soltész said that thanks to the programmes, the employment of an estimated 300-400 individuals will be assured.

Numerous public buildings are lit up in blue on World Autism Awareness Day, including the dome of the Hungarian Parliament building.

(Ministry of Human Resources)