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An autism charity is holding an open day at its community hub in Caerphilly town centre.
The Autism Directory, which has been rebranded as Autistic Minds, opened the hub on Market Street in September last year, but is now inviting residents to see what it has to offer now coronavirus restrictions have eased.
The open day will be held between 11am and 3pm on Friday, August 27, with guest speakers set to be confirmed nearer to the date.
As well as support groups and advice sessions for autistic people and their families, the hub also offers support with job applications, social skills and more.
The charity also offers employment opportunities within its ranks for autistic people, who have a variety of roles – including running support groups and answering the phones.
Across the charity, which is headquartered in Treforest, 60% of staff are autistic.
Merchandise such as t-shirts, mugs, coasters and more, designed by autistic artists, are on sale at the hub, with the money raised going back into the charity, which relies on donations to survive.
The charity also looks to work with local businesses to create more opportunities for autistic people to find employment or work experience.
Sarah Cutting, Head of Charitable Services at Autistic Minds, said: “Autism is a hidden condition and many neurodiverse children and adults face daily struggles accessing everyday support, services and social opportunities that many of us take for granted.
“The Community Hub enables us to support Caerphilly and the surrounding areas with a localised version of the services we deliver as a national charity.
“Whether it’s a local HelpHub phoneline, support groups for autistic adults and parents of autistic children, or the exciting social and activity groups we host in the hub. They all provide vital support, skills and services for autistic adults.”
During the open day, members of the Autistic Minds team will be at the bandstand in Castle Court Shopping Centre to answer questions about autism. They will also be running activities for children.
For more information contact caerphilly@autisticminds.org.uk
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