A MUCH-NEED project which helps support young people with autism in Redditch has received a £10,000 cash boost from the Big Lottery Fund.
Your Ideas ‘Joining It Up’ scheme will use the funding to continue providing a support service for autistic young people and their parents and carers who are struggling to access the services and support they need and are entitled to.
Those using the service receive advice and guidance regarding the issues impacting on their mental well-being and quality of life, such as how to ensure schools are meeting their educational needs.
Project manager Jordan Cooke said: “We know that many of the young people who come to our clubs do not receive the services that they should, and many of their parents feel that they have no choice but to remove their children from school and home educate them instead.
“Our aim is to tackle issues like this. We can advise parents on how to cope with informal school exclusions, where children access only a few hours school per week, which are commonplace for children with autism and behavioral issues. We also help parents who have been discouraged from obtaining diagnosis their child’s disability or if a child’s problem is downgraded and doesn’t meet a threshold.
“By educating them and helping them access the services that are and should be available, they are able to take control of their situation and the whole family’s wellbeing can improve.”
The project, based at the Your Ideas Youth and Community Centre in Matchborough, also runs a social club for members with ages ranging from five to 25, where they can forge friendships as well as enjoy activities including sports, cookery and day trips together.
He added: “We are finding that more and more families are needing our service and as we are already running at maximum capacity – with a long waiting list too – this funding will mean we can continue to carry out the work that is so desperately needed in the Redditch community.”
