The North East Autism Society based at Aycliffe has joined forces with other autism charities from across the UK to launch a new campaign designed to improve access to facilities and services for people living with autism.The Connect to Autism scheme, which is funded by the Department of Health, aims to work with national and regional organisations across a range of sectors spanning retail, entertainment, sport and transport, in order to help them become autism-friendly, while also raising awareness and understanding of autism within the community.
Changes that could be implemented include clearer signage, physical changes to premises, staff training and awareness coupled with support for employees with autism.
A number of pilot projects are already underway with organisations including Gateshead College, The Sunderland Foundation of Light, Beamish Museum and The Sunderland Empire Theatre, with training, advice and consultancy provided by the North East Autism Society.
In order to raise awareness of the challenges faced by those with autism, particularly within social or group situations a number of individual supporters forming a ‘Champions Network’ are also being recruited. ‘Champions’ include TV personalities, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs and academics.  TV presenters David & Carrie Grant, celebrity chef Mark Lloyd, Durham cricketer Gordon Muchall and actress Jane Asher have already signed up to the cause.
John Phillipson, CEO of North East Autism Society and Chair of Autism Alliance UK, which is co-ordinating the project said: “People with autism are often excluded from their own communities through lack of understanding. They can feel extremely anxious when in social situations or public places and this has an enormous impact on their quality of life.”
“With a basic appreciation of autism and the willingness to make reasonable adjustments, the general public, companies and venues can help improve the lives of people with autism, their families and carers.
Durham cricketer Gordon Muchall added: “Autism touches the lives of 2.7 million people every day.  I’m happy to go in to bat for the autism community and lend my support to the Autism Connect campaign to make venues more accessible to people affected by autism.”
Alan Cormack, Contracting Manager with NHS Sunderland Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) added: “As a CCG we are delighted to be associated with this campaign. NHS Sunderland CCG staff has recently received autism awareness training and further training sessions are scheduled for our GP practices this summer. “
Autism is thought to affect one in 100 of the UK population with more males diagnosed with the condition than females.  Around 50% of people with autism also suffer from anxiety or depression, while 90% have sensory differences.