Family fun for launch of Newham autism society branch

Melissa York, Reporter Thursday, July 7, 2011
6:00 AM

A host of events are planned for a fun day in Beckton this Saturday for families, friends and professionals who have been affected by autism and want to raise awareness while enjoying themselves in the sun.

A Newham branch of the National Autistic Society (NAS) will launch this week and to celebrate with the autistic community in the borough they will host a day of inflatables, face painting, live music, raffles and fire engines.

The West Ham Community Sports Trust have donated the football team’s training ground at the West Ham Community Centre where they will also be giving away articles signed by West Ham United players and giving free football coaching lessons.

Specialist services and autism support organisations such as SPINN, the 3 H’s and the Occupational Therapy Service will be present as well as parents of autistic children who will give peer support and point other parents in the direction of local, helpful services.

Newham NAS branch officer Sean Hurley said: “We welcome all local people affected by autism, their families, friends and the professionals who work with them to attend our launch, which has been generously supported by our local football club.

“The branch wants to provide a voice for people in Newham affected by autism, and support the NAS in their campaigning for the rights of people who affected by autism.

“With the right support, at the right time, people with autism can lead happy and fulfilling lives.”

The NAS Fun Day will be held this Saturday at West Ham United’s Beckton training grounds, West Ham Community Centre, 60a Albatross Close, off Woolwich Manor Way, Beckton from 12pm to 4pm.