THE NATIONAL Autistic Society has launched a dedicated base for residents in Worcestershire.
The branch opened its doors for the first time on Thursday (October 24) for an event attended by councillors from around the county.
There was a guest speech from Dr Wendy Lawson, an internationally renowned researcher and psychologist with high functioning autism.
Kevin Baskerville, manager of Leicestershire County Council’s autism outreach service, also led a talk about anxiety at the base at St Peter’s Baptist Church in Worcester.
It is estimated more than one in 100 people in the UK have the condition, a life-long disability which affects how a person communicates with others and makes sense of the world around them.
The new branch which will serve Worcestershire and Herefordshire will offer support, advice and information to residents with autism.
Officer Mandy Shrimpton said: “NAS Worcestershire and Herefordshire will help local families affected by autism to access the help they need and put them in contact with others in similar situations.
“Over the coming weeks and months we will be holding workshops and more special events and hope to see as many families as possible.”
Jamie Mitchell, branches manager at the NAS, added: “We’re delighted that an NAS branch is opening in Worcestershire and Herefordshire and wish Mandy and the other volunteers at the branch every success.
“Their dedication will surely inspire others to get involved in the branch and help us reach more people affected by autism in the area.”
For more information visit the National Autistic Society at www.autism.org.uk or follow the NAS on Twitter and Facebook.
