Our Strategy
Find out how we’re working to enhance the lives of autistic people.
Demand for autism services is growing fast, leaving too many people without the support they need.
In the UK, 1 in 100 people are autistic. In East Anglia alone, there are around 75,000 autistic people. Autism is being diagnosed more often because of better understanding and early checks. But many autistic people still struggle to get the help they need.
Did you know?
- Over 200,000 people are waiting for autism assessments, sometimes for months or years.
- Only 30% of autistic people have jobs, even though they have many skills and talents.
- Nearly 80% feel lonely and left out of things that others enjoy.
- Currently 1 in 20 children has an EHCP (Education and Health Care Plan) and a third have autism as the primary need for support
Our Strategic Focus for 2025-2028
Our goal: Doubling Support by 2028.
We’re currently supporting 1,500 people each year. By 2028 we’re committed to reaching 3,000.
We have developed 4 strategic pillars that will be critical to our success:
- Meet the current and future needs of autistic people and their families
- Share our expertise with others to raise awareness and change attitudes to autism
- Create a safe, happy and rewarding place to work
- Maintain financial and organisational sustainability
Together, we can create better futures.
Over the past 50 years, Autism Anglia has grown and evolved, driven by our mission to support autistic people and their families. Our journey has been shaped by the collaboration of our partners and the support of our community. Together we have achieved significant milestones, yet we know our work is far from over.
The landscape we operate in remains uncertain, with ongoing challenges in education, health and social care and the wider economy. That’s why our new 3-year strategy is so important. It reflects our community to do more, reach more people and ensure our support helps people build better futures.
Read our 2025-2028 StrategyOur Vision
To create an accepting society where autistic people and their families feel supported, celebrated and empowered with the opportunities they need to thrive.
Our Mission
To support and celebrate autistic people and their families through providing high quality services, accessible community projects, and tailored opportunities created to empower.
Our Values
Commitment to empower
We support people to unlock their potential.
Courage to innovate
We are bold and embrace new ideas.
Strength to reflect
We use self-awareness to grow whilst working together to succeed.
Explore our services
Autism Alert Card
The Autism Alert Card from Autism Anglia might help you feel more confident and safer. Click to learn more.
Learn moreAutism Training for Individuals & Small Businesses
Expert-led, in-person training in Colchester, Essex designed for small businesses, healthcare professionals and individuals who want to better understand autism and support autistic people in everyday life.
Learn moreCommunity Connect
Free Autism & ADHD Support for young people 0-25 and their families in Colchester & North-East Essex & Norwich & Mid-Norfolk.
Learn moreCommunity Connect | Autism & ADHD School Support Service in Essex & Norfolk
Free Autism & ADHD Support for young people 0-25 and their families through informal school coffee sessions in Colchester & North-East Essex & Norwich & Mid-Norfolk.
Learn moreConnect Centres
Our Opportunities Centres offer activities to help people learn new skills and become more independent.
Learn moreSupported Living
Our supported living service helps people live at home and become more confident and independent.
Learn moreFundraising
Join in with one of our fundraising events or set yourself a challenge and start your own fundraising with us today!