A CHARITY which supports people affected by autism has implemented a new structure designed to address individual needs.

Autism Wessex, which has its headquarters in Christchurch, has announced changes to its Community Support Service.

The Community Support Service provides services to people of all ages in their homes, as well as for the purpose of accessing a community activity.

Jo Pattison, area manager of the Community Support Service, said: "Our commitment is to provide every single person we support with the framework to identify the opportunities that are available to them, make considered choices about what they want to achieve, and work in partnership to successfully achieve those aims.

"In order to ensure we continue to deliver the very best service we have agreed an improved structure whereby staff and service users will operate in three groups according to identified needs rather than location.

"Prior to this we organized support according to location. We feel this new structure will be beneficial to staff, whose skills will be more closely matched to the clients they support, and particularly to clients who will receive the best possible support available to them. It is an essential and positive change."

Autism Wessex, which will be celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, has supported thousands of individuals and families affected by autism across the region.

It provides three main areas of support. Portfield School provides education, residential and respite care. Community Wessex provides social care services, and Advocacy and Advice services provides information.

Jon Wyatt, director of Social Care Services at Autism Wessex said: "We are always considering ways to improve our services, the key focus being on improving our clients daily lives, delivering the support they want and increasing their opportunities and interests."

The charity is currently preparing to host a 10km run and 2km fun run at Moors Valley Country Park.

Both events will take place on Friday, June 24 with participants helping to support individuals and families affected by autism.

Interested parties can still register to take part in either run online.

For information about Autism Wessex and the Summer 10k event, please visit autismwessex.org.uk/

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