Autism support charity reaches out

31 Jan 2024 09:12

Published by: Scott Callan

Meeting: David Rutley with Spave4Autism chief executive Cheryl Simpson

MACCLESFIELD MP David Rutley has met with the chief executive of a Cheshire family support charity to discuss its plans for the future and funding priorities.
Much-valued Macclesfield based Space4Autism (S4A) has received £289,080 from the National Lottery Community Fund to support its ‘Space to Prosper’ project.
The latest lottery funding will allow the charity to continue and expand its outreach and drop-in sessions for children, young people and adults with autism, as well as their families and carers across Cheshire East.
The sessions provide information about diagnosis, Space4Autism activities and coping mechanisms to overcome issues such as social exclusion, isolation and mental health and wellbeing.
Since opening in 2005, Space4Autism (S4A) has seen increased demand year on year with more than 8,000 members now accessing the services.
Its dedicated team of staff and volunteers provides advice and support through a range of services, such as, parent support group meetings, workshops for professionals and carers, and clubs for young people.
The S4A café, which is autism friendly, is also a firm favourite and is open to the whole community, offering high quality and affordable meals.
Mr Rutley met with co-founder and chief executive Cheryl Simpson. She explained that the charity is continuing to grow and will soon be offering new services, such as ‘Space 4 ASC Adults’.
This session will be for Autistic Spectrum Condition adults to join in games and activities or take time out in the charity’s sensory room.
The MP also heard how Space4Autism continues to develop its partnership working with local organisations including ‘Just Drop In’ and the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust – enabling families and individuals to access a range of services under the same roof.
Speaking after the meeting he said: “Space4Autism’s important work is greatly valued by many families in our area.
“It is great to see that the National Lottery has once again acknowledged the team’s fantastic contribution.
“I know the funding will go a long way in extending their Space to Prosper project, enabling services to reach more families and provide vital support over the months ahead.”