Hundreds of staff, supporters and members of the community joined regional charity Autism Wessex to celebrate its 50th Birthday at Portfield School on Saturday 25th August.
Local people came together to enjoy a day of live music, games, stalls and entertainment, commemorating 50 years since the charity was founded by parents of children with autism in 1968.
Siún Cranny, CEO of Autism Wessex, said; “I’d like to thank everyone who came along on Saturday. It was incredibly special to celebrate 50 years of Autism Wessex with so many of our staff, people that we support and charity fundraisers. We were treated to some fantastic and moving speeches on the day. Dominic Randell-Snow, who we have supported for the past 20 years, signed about his experiences and our Ambassador Sophia Grech, the internationally renowned Opera Singer, spoke about her autism diagnosis and how it’s inspired her to reach out to young people with autism. It’s was a truly memorable day.”
The event focused on celebrating the hard work and dedication of staff in the morning and welcomed supporters and members of the public in the afternoon. A family friendly day, there was a magician, bouncy castle and face painting as well as live music, food, drink, games and stalls to browse. The event was kindly sponsored by Williams Thompson Solicitors LLP.
Sophia Grech, Autism Wessex Ambassador, said “It was a pleasure to be a part of such a special occasion for Autism Wessex. Ever since I joined the charity as an Ambassador last year I have been so impressed and inspired by with the work they do; their commitment to providing the best support to local children and adults with autism. I am excited to be working with the charity as they embark on the next 50 years!”
Siún continues; “Looking back over the past 50 years, we are incredibly proud of what we have achieved. From opening one of the very first specialist schools in the country and paving the way in adult residential care, to providing support in the community and running an Autism Advice Service, we have continued to push the boundaries. As we celebrate our 50th Birthday and look to the next 50 years, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone that has played a part in our journey”.
Autism Wessex is the regional charity that provides specialist support and services to anyone affected by autism across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset.
For more information on how you can still get involved in the charity’s landmark year by giving or volunteering please visit: www.autismwessex.org.uk/team50. You can follow @autismwessex on Facebook and Twitter.