HAMPSHIRE residents are encouraged to join a community scheme that helps support autistic people.

March 27 to April 2 is Autism Acceptance Week, and the Hampshire Autism Partnership Board is shining a light on Hampshire’s Autism Ambassadors scheme.   

Launched in 2015, the scheme is designed to build better understanding and acceptance of autism within communities across the county.

Ambassadors help raise awareness of autism, identifying positive changes within organisations and environments that help autistic people to live independently.

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So far more than 1,000 people have registered for the scheme and are provided with full support and training. 

Cllr Fran Carpenter, co-chair of the Hampshire Autism Partnership Board, said: “The Autism Ambassador Scheme continues to go from strength to strength, enabling autistic people to have a voice.  

“Every autistic person is different and will have their own strengths and challenges. Many autistic people need extra time to process information, or may feel intense anxiety in certain situations, and find noise and bright lights painful and distressing. Autism Ambassadors help communities understand how they can make reasonable adjustments to support autistic individuals."

Cllr Carpenter added that if you're passionate about making a difference, visit the Autism Ambassador Scheme’s website to find out how to take the next step.

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The Autism Ambassador Scheme is a joint project between Hampshire County Council (HCC), Hampshire Autism Voice, Autism Hampshire, the South Hampshire Branch of the National Autistic Society and other councils in the county.

If you are looking for support as an autistic individual or as someone supporting an autistic person, visit Autism Hampshire’s Information, Advice, and Guidance webpage.  

For more information go to ascambassador.org.uk.