(Submitted photo/Saskatchewan Prevention Institute)

By Charlene Tebbutt

FASD Awareness

FASD lunch n’ learn series aims for awareness

Apr 3, 2019 | 2:33 PM

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, or FASD, continues to be a prevalent, and highly misunderstood disability, and the negative stigma around it can sometimes make it hard to find information and support.

The provincial FASD Network was in Prince Albert Tuesday to talk about programs and resources available to caregivers and those who work with individuals with FASD, including teachers, social workers, and those who work in group homes and the justice system. The FASD Lunch n’ Learn session is part of a series of events that took place across the province over the past few weeks.

Shana Mohr, training coordinator with the FASD Network, said the events are an opportunity to talk about the impacts of FASD without the stigma.

“We always kind of say it doesn’t matter what profession you are in, or where you are in life, there is probably a very good chance that you are going to encounter someone who is impacted by FASD,” Mohr said. “So, when you have the knowledge and understanding, it can make a really positive difference.”

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An estimated four per cent of the Canadian population is affected by FASD, Mohr said, adding that people with FASD and their caregivers often feel shame and are acutely aware of the negative stigma attached to their diagnosis. People with FASD face challenges, she said, and can sometimes end up on the wrong side of the law, but they can be successful as well.

Mohr said the FASD Network has embarked on a two-pilot project to staff a specially-trained justice worker to work with the offenders across Saskatchewan as they make their way through the courts. The position is funded through a grant by the Law Foundation of Saskatchewan.

“When someone with FASD is highly misunderstood and the disability is not recognized, or the supports aren’t put in place, then the judicial system is sometimes where they end up,” she added. ‘It’s a really shame and blame-focused disability, and we need to get past that point. We need to be able to talk about FASD in safe, supportive, non-shaming and blaming way.”

The next event for the FASD Network is a 2019 parent retreat in Saskatoon. That event is set for April 27 and is aimed at parents and caregivers, and will feature a keynote speech by a caregiver from Yellowknife.

The kid-free event will be provided at no cost.

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Charlene.tebbutt@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @CharleneTebbutt