We look at ways to support people with autism in North Bristol…
Autism is a complex condition and it can be a very difficult and lonely time for a family when autism is suspected or diagnosed. As well as dealing with the day to day challenges of coping with an autistic child, there are also worries about the future, education and getting support from professionals.
Families in Bristol can access a range of help and support from Bristol Autism Support (BAS). They say that their primary goal is to bring people together to share experiences in order to ease stress and anxiety. April is Autism Awareness Month but BAS prefers to celebrate Autism Acceptance Month which they think focuses more on the individual person, celebrates their neurodiversity and how they and their family live with the condition.
BAS offers a wide range of support covering all aspects of autism and caring for an autistic child. It can start from the very beginning if you suspect your child may be autistic with support in getting assessments and a formal diagnosis as well as signposting to local NHS services.
Schools are a very important environment for autistic children and their ability to support them and their often challenging behaviour can be key to a positive experience. BAS supports parents and teachers alike so everyone can work together for the best outcome for the child.
But it is often in the home where help is needed most. BAS can offer advice on dealing with meltdowns, supporting non-verbal children, signposting to local activities such as sports groups and even whether an autism service dog might be a good addition to the family.
Autism is a lifelong condition and so inevitably, autistic children become autistic teens and adults. BAS also offers help and support for this group with guides to university, work, life skills and help for carers.
There is no doubt that there has been an increase in awareness of autism and the challenges it creates which can only be a good thing. But there is still much more to learn about the condition and so BAS and other groups like it will have an important role to play in supporting families and children for many more years to come.
For more help and information visit the Bristol Autism Support website.