Celebrating our Ruby Anniversary in 2008, local charity, The Wessex Autistic Society was formed 40 years ago by a group of parents of children with autism in Dorset. The Wessex Autistic Society exists to help people with autism access good education, housing and services that in turn will help them to develop their social and communication skills, become more independent and lead fuller and more productive lives.

The Society operates a successful school, Portfield School, for children with autism from the ages of 3-19 on Parley Lane, Christchurch.  Having recently completed the building of the facilities with our brand new therapy pool we welcome people to have a tour (call 01202 483360, option 2).  The charity also provides respite and sessional care, residential and supported living services, a drop in service for adults with autism, an information and advice line and support groups.

The services we offer for people with autism in Bournemouth include:

·         our weekly drop in group for adults with Aspergers Syndrome at Moordown; this group offers a friendly, understanding atmosphere for people with a  diagnosis of Aspergers syndrome with value for money meals and refreshments available, a varied diary of events including art, music, drama, badminton and yoga/relaxation.

·         Our ASD Information and Advice Service which is run in conjunction with Disability Wessex at their offices in Bournemouth – this offers a free advice service to people affected by autism giving help, information and advice on a range of issues including education, health, benefits, jobs etc.

·         CARDS respite service for families affected by autism – this is a sessional respite service we offer across Dorset.

Autism is a life-long developmental disability, which affects the way in which a person communicates and relates to people around them.  Children and adults with autism have difficulty relating to others in a meaningful way and can often have accompanying learning difficulties. It is essential that children diagnosed with the condition receive autistic-specific schooling and structured support as early as possible, to help them maximise their skills and achieve full potential in adulthood. 1 in 100 people are affected by autism and that is over 7,000 in Dorset alone.

Contact Information:

Ms Millie Paterson     

Community & Events Fundraiser      

The Wessex Autistic Society 

Bargate Court

22 Bargates

CHRISTCHURCH        BH23 1QL

Tel:  703597                 

E-mail:  m.paterson@twas.org.uk