Flying the flag for autism awareness

Published: Tuesday 1 July 2025

This image shows two young people raising the autism pride flag with ARCH co-ordinator Ramon Hutchingson

Two Hamilton pupils have marked Autistic Pride Day by raising an awareness flag outside of South Lanarkshire Council’s HQ.

Five-year old Max and 12-year-old Caleb from St John’s Primary School helped officials to raise the flag on Autistic Pride Day, which was held this year on June 18.

Recognised annually, the day celebrates the importance and value of autistic people within society.

2025 marks the 7th year that South Lanarkshire Council has flown the flag to honour Autistic Pride Day.

Chair of the council’s Social Work Resources Committee, Councillor Margaret Walker, said: “The flag lets our entire autism and wider neurodivergent community know that South Lanarkshire Council is committed to raising awareness and understanding.

“It’s important that people are treated with dignity, respect and listened to – and the work of the Autism Resources Co-ordination Hub (ARCH), is a great example of that.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer for Health and Social Care said: “Autism Pride Day provides an important public opportunity for us to recognise the contributions of autistic members of our communities and celebrate the strength that comes from valuing diversity.

“My thanks to Max and Caleb for leading the way at the flag raising.”