Bristol Autism Support (BAS) is asking for the support of the public after reporting a staggering 56% increase in the demand for its specialist services in 2024.
BAS is a local charity dedicated to supporting parents and carers of autistic individuals. The growth in support last year shows more families than ever before are seeking guidance, community and resources to better navigate support for their autistic loved ones.
Figures revealed in its 2024 Annual Report show BAS helped 4,975 individuals through 359 sessions, including support groups, family events, and one-on-one peer support.
The charity also launched new initiatives, including the popular Community Bookshelf and the BAS Podcast, furthering its mission to provide accessible information and support for families across Bristol and the wider South West.
However, meeting this unprecedented demand has stretched resources to their limits. To ensure no family is left unsupported, BAS is kicking off a major fundraising campaign for 2025.
The charity is calling on the local community, businesses and supporters to help sustain its essential services and deliver the growth required to keep up with the ever-increasing demand.
Jane Walton, Chair of Trustees at Bristol Autism Support, said: “We are extremely proud of our team of staff and volunteers for delivering record-breaking support to parents and carers of autistic people during 2024.
“The extraordinary growth we’ve seen highlights the vital need for our services in the community, both in Bristol and across the South West.
“As well as celebrating the impact we have made, we know there is still so much more we can do, but that will only be possible with the support of the community and local businesses.
“By donating, fundraising or volunteering for BAS, you can directly improve the lives of local families. Please consider supporting our charity today and let’s work together to ensure every family gets the support they need.”
The charity’s achievements in 2024 include:
- Our team delivered 1,184 one-to-one sessions with parents and carers.
- Our community meet up sessions were up by 56% compared with 2023; we supported 685 families at these groups, including the BAS Dads and Grandparents groups.
- Over 860 volunteer hours were delivered by our peer support volunteers.
- We supported 670 families through events such as sensory-friendly sessions, music therapy courses, and inclusive celebrations at local landmarks like the SS Great Britain and Bristol Aquarium.
Every donation makes a difference. Your support can help BAS continue to provide critical resources, grow its team of peer educators, and develop new programmes for under-represented groups, including families living in more rural areas and those with English as a second language.
Find out more about Bristol Autism Support’s services here and fundraising opportunities here. Our 2024 Annual Report:
If you have an autistic loved one of any age and are struggling, you can book onto our free information sessions on the Autism Central Website here. Or use this link to arrange a free 1-2-1 support call with us.
