Autism Initiatives UK is a charity with an acclaimed national reputation for leading the way in supporting people with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC). The Founder, Pat Minshull had a son with autism and was concerned about the lack of specialised help available. She led an extensive fundraising campaign, set up the charity on 22nd September 1972 and in 1974 the Peterhouse School for autistic children in Southport was opened.
Since then, the organisation has continued to expand as it has continued to respond to the needs of individuals with autism and their families by aiming to:
> Develop meaningful dialogue with commissioners and parents.
> Develop and manage services distinguished by their excellence in their individualised understanding of the autism spectrum, statutory requirements and accountability.
Further highlights include the development of services in the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and Scotland. This was as a result of the demand for services and the reputation that Autism Initiatives UK has developed for providing person centred services.
Current services and aspirations
We now provide individualised support to over 790 people across the UK with 750 staff. 90% of staff work directly with autistic people providing care and support. The remainder of staff work in HR, Finance, Property Management, Administration and Management.
Autism Initiatives UK - Services we provide
Outreach Support Service for Mainstream Education (OSSME) is an outreach service, which since its establishment in 1998 has supported over 130 people, their families and their schools throughout the north of England.
Adult Day and Residential Services are offered in over 40 houses (both registered and tenancy arrangements). These cover a wide geographical area from Northern Ireland to Scotland and throughout the North of England. We have 6 Day Resource Bases for adults who seek to meet the needs of the individuals in ways which enhance their lives, broaden their opportunities and continue their development.
Peterhouse School in Southport offers day, weekly, termly and 52-week boarding to 55 children.
Respite Services are provided in Liverpool for 5 people. With the opening of our new service in Aberdeenshire in Autumn 2007 we will be providing respite for another 5 people with autism.
Practice Support Team consists of SALT (Speech And Language Therapists), Psychologists, Autism Advisors, Dramatherapists and Support Staff.
