NEW CROWDFUNDER APPEAL FOR AUTISM CHARITY

A fundraising campaign has been launched to help an autism charity following unprecedented demand for help during the pandemic.

Autism Plus is raising vital funds to support its care services for vulnerable adults with autism, learning disabilities and mental health conditions.

The South Yorkshire based charity experienced a surge in demand during the pandemic and received more enquiries than ever before from families in crisis.

Philip Smith said his son has grown in ways he never thought was possible since being supported by the charity “It might only seem like little steps to some but he now eats different food, he’s so much happier in his personal space, he is getting out into the community and he is much more sociable and engaged.”

Founded by parents over 35 years ago, Autism Plus offers care support in residential and supported living, support into employment and social enterprise businesses. They hope to raise £5,000 by 18th March 2022.

Katie Mitchell from Autism Plus said, “Many families with autistic and disabled children are still suffering from the devastating impact of the pandemic. It has driven people into crisis and desperate for help, unfortunately it's common for people to already be in crisis when they come to us. We want to do more to offer support and interventions at an earlier stage. With the right support, at the right time people can live happy, independent lives.”

The fundraised money will help Autism Plus to continue provide vital care support services, purchase communication tools for individuals who are non-verbal, offer respite support and employment sessions for individuals who are desperate to find paid work.

“Autism affects an estimated 700,000 children and adults in the UK. We know from the unprecedented amount of enquiries we have received over the last 2 years people need our help more than ever before.” Katie added.

Although Autism Plus’ care services remained open during the pandemic, they had to cancel the majority of their fundraising plans, along with the closure of charity shops and the loss of volunteers resulted in a struggle to continue to find the funds to support their work.

Visit Autism Plus’ covid impact appeal Autism COVID Impact Appeal - a Community crowdfunding project in Doncaster by Autism Plus (crowdfunder.co.uk)

Autism Plus is a registered charity providing an holistic range of support for people with autism and other complex needs. Operating across the north of England, their services include residential and supported living care and support, adult learning and specialist employment services.

The charity also operates social enterprise businesses providing work and training opportunities for individuals with autism and learning disabilities, with the ultimate goal of moving individuals towards independence and paid employment.