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Volunteers from the Guernsey branch of the National Autistic Society and law firm Carey Olsen raised more than £3,000 in a recent Flag Day to help ensure the continuation of social events this year for families with children with autism.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people as well as how they make sense of the world around them. It is a spectrum condition, which means that while all people with autism share certain difficulties, their condition will affect them in different ways. Some are able to live relatively independent lives but others may have accompanying learning disabilities and need a lifetime of specialist support. More than one in 100 people in the UK have autism.
The family activities are run by volunteers who are on hand to provide advice and information. Each year the charity holds seasonal parties with a range of activities on offer including bouncy castles, arts and crafts, toys and Lego. As well as the larger parties the charity also hopes that the money will enable them to plan sessions such as archery, kayaking and bowling, which families would be able to come and try in small groups. To help with this the committee is looking for additional volunteers who can add support occasionally.
Events and fundraising manager of the local branch, Jo Horsepool, said: "We are very grateful to the members of the public for their generous donations, which surpassed our hopes for the day, and to our volunteers and Carey Olsen staff members for giving up their time. These funds will enable us to continue to put on additional activities for families living with autism and related disorders and provide opportunities for families to meet one another and take part in potentially new experiences within a friendly and supportive environment."
To find out more about the local branch activities or to register interest as a volunteer, contact the committee at info@nasguernsey.com or via the charity’s website: www.nasguernesy.com
