Since its inception, the Society has actively promoted the provision of care, well-being, education and employment for those with ASD as well as increasing public awareness and understanding to encourage acceptance and support in the wider community.
Through working with relevant organisations and statutory bodies the Society has been able to open a channel of communication, support and awareness between people with ASD and their families with Education, Health and Local Government.
The Society provides information, advice and support for adults, young people and children with ASD and signposts people towards other organisations and local support groups which can offer relevant expertise and advice.
The Society has close links with the National Autistic Society and has a voice locally on the Lincolnshire Autism Partnership Board and other decision making bodies. The Society continues its work to foster mutual support, co-operation and understanding to achieve the best possible outcomes and quality of life for those with ASD.
The Society (LAS) was founded in 1978 by Michael and Sheila Lee (parents) along with Peter Nickerson, their son’s Social Worker. LAS was affiliated to The National Autistic Society and paid a yearly membership subscription. When the NAS began creating Branches in the late 90’s, all affiliated societies had the option to become a Branch of the NAS or remain as an independent Charity. We chose the latter, along with describing ourselves as “working in partnership with The National Autistic Society”
The original aims and objectives of the LAS were to bring Autism to the attention of the statutory authorities and raise awareness.
The LAS grew very slowly at first with just one or two of us joining our three founders but things began to expand more rapidly from 1990 onwards. Professionals were much more aware and children and indeed some adults were being diagnosed more readily and parents wanted information about education and coping with Autism on a daily basis.
We took a decision that we would work with all the statutory agencies within the County to develop services for children and adults with Autism.
We have always had a policy of partnership working and we are not a protest or campaigning group.
Over the years, we have been able to influence and effect change within Central Government through involvement and close working with the NAS. Locally, we have influenced statutory services through our work. Now we sit on the Autism Partnership Board placing us central to developments across the county.
The Lincolnshire Autistic Society are always looking for members to strengthen our voice and ensure we keep our work relevant to people with Autism in Lincolnshire. A vibrant and growing membership helps us do this and bring in new skills and ideas to the society.
Our dedicated committee are always delighted to hear the views of members to shape the work we do. Joining the society means you will have a real influence on our future direction.
On top of this you will receive our quarterly newsletter and receive a discount on ticket price for our annual conference.