A NEW campaign highlighting the difficulty of dealing with autism at Christmas has been launched.

The Dorset-based charity Autism Wessex, has begun its ‘Through My Eyes’ campaign, with the message that Christmas is not the most magical time of year for everyone.

Karen Wilmhurst, advocacy services manager said: “We have launched ‘Through My Eyes’ so we can show autism from different perspectives.

“With Christmas fast approaching we are aware some people with autism will be getting anxious rather than excited.

“Christmas is [more] busy, bright, colourful, loud and different [than] any other time of year and for a person with autism this can be very unsettling and frightening.”

The campaign is the latest venture by the charity after a bumper year of events supporting people with autism and their families. This includes the Big Brekkie event and a Onesie Walk to be held at AFC Bournemouth’s Goldsands Stadium.

Karen added: “If there are any patients and carers who need help understanding the world through the eyes of someone with autism, they are encouraged to get in touch with our information and advice service.”

Gary Bailey, father to Jack who was diagnosed with autism last year, said: “We are pleased Autism Wessex is trying to make people more aware of autism over the festive period.

“Although Jack enjoys Christmas it does present its challenges.

“Jack suffers with his sensory issues and bright, flashing lights, people noise as well as the social aspect of Christmas distress him, which we learnt in a Christmas parade we got caught in last year.

“These are all things I take for granted so I seek as much advice as I can so I better understand and help Jack.”

Gary added: “I understand Jack more each day.

“I know what he loves and what he finds difficult and stressful.

“I respect the way he copes in situations he finds difficult while still maintaining his affection for life. He is my inspiration and I am so proud to be his dad.”

The Information and Advice Service can be contacted on 01305 213155 or email advice@ autismwessex.org.uk