In support of Glennys Jones' campaign to raise awareness of Asperger's Syndrome, (Son Should Not Be Dead, August 23) we would add it is not only "the authorities" who do not understand this.

Doctors can rarely be relied on to know anything about AS - nor can they offer any help.

Mental health professionals say it is nothing to do with them, employers do not want more able AS sufferers because they do not possess good communication and teamwork skills, safe housing is almost unattainable and generally there is very little on offer for people with the disability to do during the day.

Most are without friends, cannot converse easily or express how they feel, and are very vulnerable members of society. These are just a few of the problems.

Many are also on prescribed drugs. Is it a wonder beautiful young lives are being lost?

Carole and David Alston, South Hill Road, Shortlands