A SPECIALIST autism service in Malvern has received a welcome visit from a leading autism campaigner.
Options’ newly-appointed ambassador, Anna Kennedy OBE, visited Options Malvern View to meet with staff and people the service supports.
Malvern View, which is part of the Options Adolescent to Adult Life Preparation Service (AALPS), supports young adults with a range of needs to live as independently as possible.
Anna, who has two autistic sons, has to date worked closely with the autism services with Outcomes First Group and is now extending her role across the services within the group.
She also founded autism-specialist school Hillingdon Manor and has established her own autism awareness charity.
The charity, Anna Kennedy Online, provides support and advice about autism-related issues to thousands of parents and carers and promotes inclusion and equality for those with the condition.
Chris Mawby, registered manager at Options Malvern View, gave Anna a tour of the service which included its newly-opened sensory garden.
Anna said: “I’m really excited about my new role with Options and to continue to do what I have been doing for years, which is raising awareness and ensuring that people with autism are accepted for who they are.
“It’s so important that all of us who are involved with and affected by autism should continue to fight hard and make our voices heard in improving educational and other resources for individuals, their families and carers.
““It was fantastic to visit Options Malvern View last week and I can’t wait to support the excellent work that Options does throughout its services and to get involved in future campaigns and projects.”
Outcomes First Group chief executive officer, Graham Baker, said Anna’s appointment is an exciting one for the group.
He added: “We are very pleased to welcome Anna to the wider group, her values and wealth of experience will add real value to our expanding organisation.”
