About Autism Anglia

Autism Anglia is the new name for The Essex Autistic Society (EAS) and NACHA (Norfolk Autistic Community Housing Association). The Essex Autistic Society took over the running of NACHA on 1st March 2008 and following their AGM on 28th March 2008 the new name was formally agreed.

The Essex Autistic Society was originally formed in the early 1970's by a few dedicated parents of young children with autism who were frustrated by the absence of any specialised educational facilities in the area. Doucecroft School in Kelvedon, the Essex Autistic Society's first service, was opened in 1977, initially with five children.

The charity has grown significantly since then and is still expanding. In addition to the school (now located at Eight Ash Green) and Further Education department in Kelvedon, it now operates a number of Adult Residential Services and Community Support projects in the North Essex area together with a Day Centre in Colchester.  It also employs its own Family Support Officer, Clinical Psychology team and Speech & Language therapist.

NACHA was established in 1982 largely through the efforts of parents of individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions who again felt that there were no local services available to meet the special needs of their children. NACHA was created from a close partnership working with Norfolk Social Services, Norfolk Autistic Society and Broadland Housing Association.

Individual care plans and programmes are devised specifically for each pupil, student and resident enabling each one to build upon his or her strengths and achieve happiness and a sense of security and self worth. This, in turn, can facilitate progress towards as much independence as possible leading in itself to self respect.

Background Information

Autism Anglia is a registered charity and a registered company limited by guarantee in England & Wales. Membership is available to anyone interested in the charity's work. The day to day running of the services is in the hands of professional employed staff (numbering about 300 at present) and management committees/governors, with overall control by a board of volunteer trustees appointed by the members.   Although totally independent and autonomous, Autism Anglia works in partnership with the National Autistic Society but receives no financial support from them. The Charity is a founder member of the Autism Alliance (U.K.) and also supports Autisme Europe, we are also registered with the Autism Services Accreditation Programme. Doucecroft School is DfEE approved, subject to OFSTED inspections and all our residential services are approved and registered with Social Services. Our Heads of Services staff are members of COSPPA.   Autism Anglia relies on the financial help and generosity of its supporters and benefactors.

The Annual Report & Financial Statements for the year ended 31 August 2007 is available to download here.