Autism Anglia has been working to improve awareness and understanding of autism in World Autism Acceptance Week. 

The charity based on North Hill in Colchester held several events and campaigns in the region to promote understanding of autism including the lighting up of Colchester Castle and Colchester Town Hall in the charity’s brand colours.

The charity also reached out to the community with a stall in Culver Square and a drop in advice and support day at Twisted Treats on St Botolphs Street.

James McQuiggan, Chief Executive said:

 

World Autism Acceptance Week gives us the chance to highlight the work of the charity but also the chance to highlight some very important issues faced by autistic people.  

Through our social media channels, we shared the Breaking Point campaign which is a campaign set out by the Autism Alliance, a partnership of autism charities. We are appealing to the government to make real change for autistic people.

 

Research commissioned by the Autism Alliance shows that thousands of autistic adults across England are not receiving the social care they need, preventing them from living well and actively in their communities, and from taking up work.

Over 10,000 autistic adults with a moderate learning disability are not getting the social care they need.

A lack of care also means that too many autistic adults reach crisis point, leading to family breakdown and confinement in mental health hospitals.

James added:

 

We have also been grateful of support from the local community in World Autism Acceptance Week through various fundraising efforts.

 

The charity held its annual fundraiser, Silly Sock Day which saw many schools, businesses and clubs don their silliest socks and donate. 

They also had three people take on the London Landmarks Half Marathon last Sunday who have raised an incredible £1,850 between them as well as supporters talking on a sponsored walk for autism who raised over £1,020! In the news - Emma's story

Jeans Craft Room, a pottery painting studio on North Hill, Colchester also held a quiet/SEN session while raising vital funds for the charity too.

Autism Anglia supports children and adults with autism and their families through a range of services including Residential and Supported Living, Outreach, Diagnostics, Doucecroft school, Training, Community Connect and its Opportunities Centres.

The charity continues to appeal for support with secured places on many large running events throughout the UK and overseas. If you would like to find out more about taking on a sponsored challenge and doing something amazing for autism, visit www.autism-anglia.org.uk

FUNDRAISE FOR AUTISM ANGLIA