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Hyperlocal editor shortlisted for award after autism coverage

steven-downesA hyperlocal editor has been nominated for an award celebrating the reporting of autism.

Autism charity Anna Kennedy Online has shortlisted Inside Croydon editor Steven Downes for the Top Journalist prize at its 2018 Autism Hero Awards.

Steven, a journalist for 35 years, was shortlisted for his coverage of the “struggles of multiple families to get Croydon Council, and other agencies, to provide them with the appropriate care and support which, very often, they are entitled to by law”.

The winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in central London on 13 October.

Steven, pictured, said: “I am flattered and humbled even to be considered for this award.

“After all, I have simply done what any journalist would try to do: finding and telling important human stories, of local families who have been ill-served by the very people that are supposed to be there to help them.

“I’d like to thank the many mums, dads and Croydon families who have had the courage to share their stories with me, so that I might better highlight the shortcomings that they have to deal with, on a daily basis.”