A support group for families affected by autism.
To improve the lives of people affected by autism. To increase public knowledge and awareness of autism. To promote the views and needs of our members.
Why the community needs usAWARE is a parent-run group supporting families with children and young adults on the autistic spectrum (formal diagnosis not required).
The group covers the Airedale, Wharfedale, Bradford and Craven areas and beyond. Members include families and supporters in general, as well as health, education and social care professionals.
Early diagnosis of autism can greatly improve the chances of a person receiving appropriate help.
AWARE can support families through the maze of local services which cross health, social care and education boundaries. We can advise them about about accessing appropriate support from statutory, voluntary and private services, which can make a huge difference to a person with autism, helping them to maximise their skills and achieve their full potential as an adult.
We welcome membership from all backgrounds.
Our impact on the communityWe have over 300 family members who benefit from our monthly newsletter, parents meetings, weekly youth club and many other opportunities to get together and gain support from each other. The children have opportunities to develop social skills, make friends and enjoy activities in an understanding and safe environment. Siblings and friends are also welcome making it accessible to the whole family.
Volunteers to help with our youth club, junior club and holiday play schemes based at Addingham Youth Centre. Volunteers also required for our monthly trip for teenagers with autism, parents meetings at Airedale Hospital and to do fundraising. We have a fantastic team of volunteers who help at all our events, enabling the parents to have a short break. The experience helps them develop an understanding of autism and gain valuable work and life experience which may help with their university applications, further education or just for personal advancement or pleasure.
