The social barriers raised as a result of autism will be discussed at length by Ros Blackburn, an international expert who will be coming to Malta next month to talk about this disorder.

Ms Blackburn is being hosted by the Autism Parents' Association, which is working to raise awareness and provide parents with the information to overcome the challenges they faced during their child's development.

The association, which is marking World Autism Day today, urged the public to empathise with those parents whose children or adults were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

Autism was not always visible and parents required constant support. The needs of children were not always evident but if everybody worked together towards a common goal such needs would be identified to ensure they lived a happier life.

"We need everybody's help to make our lives easier because, at times, it is harder to overcome the social barriers rather than the disability itself," association president Sandra Borg said.

For further information on Ms Blackburn's talk on May 16 or to become an association member call Mrs Borg on 2141 9679/9942 7839 or send an email to info.maapa@gmail.com.