Autism Bedfordshire

27 August 2017, 15:42 | Updated: 7 September 2017, 15:43

Autism Bedfordshire provides support for children, young people and adults with Autism and their families.

Autism is a lifelong disability which affects how a person communicates and understands the world. People on the Autistic spectrum face many issues, from crippling anxiety and loneliness, to frustration at not being able to express how they feel. They frequently suffer from depression and other mental health problems as a result.

Autism Bedfordshire aims to reduce social isolation, improve the quality of life for those affected, and raise awareness and acceptance in the community.

The charity provides a range of free services for adults and children struggling with Autism – including Saturday morning activity groups, term time evening social clubs, summer activity schemes, and sport and leisure activities.

Paul’s son, Ossian, was diagnosed with severe Autism when he was just two years old. He is non-verbal and has learning disabilities, ADHD and Global Motor Skills Development Delay. Paul said:

“I have learned so much through shared experiences with other parents. I’ve found out about different therapies, interventions and coping strategies, and now find myself imparting my knowledge and experience to new parents at the group. Ossian is non-verbal but has recently started to use a few words. This is something we never thought we would witness. I can’t emphasise how important it is to keep funding coming in for this much-needed service.”

Global’s Make Some Noise is proud to support two new Children’s Services Development Officers to deliver and develop services for children and young people with autism and their families. It is hoped that these will lead to increased confidence and self-esteem, improved social and communication skills, and improved wellbeing for siblings and other family members too.