Berkshire Autistic Society - A small charity a day in May - Day Sixteen.

Welcome to day sixteen in Week Three - Caring and Sharing where I highlight those small charities that care for those in need and share their skills.

For an introduction to the entire series please visit http://llmcalling.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/small-charity-day-in-may.html

Berkshire Autistic Society was set up in 1990 by parents of children with autism, autism-related problems, Asperger Syndrome and challenging behaviours. Today, BAS is a registered Charity (No. 1076217), with a membership of over 500 and growing! Since our foundation, the commitment of BAS membership, staff and volunteers has made a positive difference to hundreds of individuals and families affected by Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC's) in Berkshire.

Berkshire Autistic Society is an established charity providing comprehensive services for all ages of people with autism, their families, carers and professionals working in the field.

Their services include a daily helpline, regular newsletters, social and leisure activities for children and adults and professional speaker evenings. With their dedicated staff and volunteer network, they strive to work in partnership to improve the services available to those affected by autism.

Their main aims are:
1. To enhance the support currently available with the purpose of improving the quality of life for children and adults with ASC, their carers and families within the Berkshire community.
- By listening to the needs of people affected by ASC and using this information to provide the support and services this community has identified as what they need to support them.
- By providing information and advice through speaker events, workshops, Outreach programmes, library resource, weekly email and comprehensive newsletters (6 times a year).
- By running social and leisure activities for children, adults and families that accommodate their needs in a non-judgemental environment.

2. To influence professionals and service providers, to deliver accessible and effective autism appropriate services and opportunities.
- By targeting professionals working in the autism field such as Education, Health, Emergency Services, Employment and the 6 Local Authorities in Berkshire. Providing specific ASC information, training, support and advice.
- By lobbying service providers sharing best practise and working together to develop appropriate services.

3. To promote public awareness, acceptance, understanding and inclusion of children and adults with ASC.

4. To create opportunities to talk to the public directly and raise awareness in the wider community about autism and how it affects people’s lives.


For more information please visit their website http://www.autismberkshire.org.uk/