Local Charity spurs organisations to rally round to build awareness of the ‘invisible’ disability

Glebe House, a Loughborough based charity, has invited local organisations and charities across Leicestershire to work in partnership to coordinate a range of events and activities to mark World Autism Awareness Week starting from 27^th March to 2^nd April and then throughout April.

Organisations who have already pledged their support to help raise much needed awareness include Leicestershire County Council, Leicestershire Autistic Society, Autism East Midlands, FTM Dance, RNIB College, Homefield College, Charnwood Borough Council, Attenborough Arts but to name a few.

Glebe House Chief Executive, Peter Warlow stated, "Whilst general awareness of autism is much higher in recent times, research shows that there remains a lack of understanding about what it really means to live with Au, not only for the person with autism but also for those who care for them and live with them. It is important to raise awareness and to get much needed support from other commercial organisations. "

The week will begin with a 'Living with Autism' Conference on Thursday 30^th March hosted by Leicestershire Autistic Society, followed by a worldwide initiative to 'Light up in Blue' as we countdown to World Autism Awareness Day on the 2^nd April.

Leicestershire Autistic Society chairperson, Jenny Cornwell commented "Our objectives are to promote year-round Autism awareness to the public, and to provide support and information to families through our Helpline, "Linkup" newsletter, Support groups, Family activities and Training. Our conference "Living with Autism" in partnership with Glebe House will kick off the activities celebrating World Autism Awareness Day and April Autism Awareness Month." She continued, "It's vital for us to train and support anyone living with, caring for or educating a person who has an Autism Spectrum Disorder & Condition."

Leicestershire County Hall and Rolls Royce in Derby have also pledged their support to light it up blue. Other businesses invited to 'Light it Blue' include John Lewis, Showcase and Cineworld Cinemas, Leicester Tigers and Football Club and supermarket giant Sainsbury's and Tesco's.

The full list of events are

27-31 March: Schools Autism Awareness Week
30th March: 'Living With Autism' Leicestershire Conference
31 March-2 April: Light It Blue Campaign
2 April: Autism Charity Open Event
26 April: Pathway to Adulthood Conference

Fusion Lifestyle Leisure Centre in Loughborough are hosting an Autism open charity event to celebrate Autism within the community on the 2^nd April and later in the month another mini conference will be held about the Pathways to Adulthood.

For more information about these events or If you would like to know how you can get involved please contact marketing@glebehouseproject.org.uk or call 07398 987627.

Source: Glebe House