The countdown to the holidays has begun. Soon we will all be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the festive season – from brightly coloured decorations and flashing lights, to mince pies and singing.

At TreeHouse School many of our pupils love this time of year.  Classes are busy making decorations to sell at a Christmas market, holding raffles and preparing to take part in a performance in front of their family and friends.   

But across the UK, the festive season can be a stressful and overwhelming time for young people with autism and their families. Changes and the lack of structure can be very stressful for some children with autism. Every family is affected differently. 

It can also be a lonely and isolating time for parents and carers as many social care services shut down for the holidays, leaving them with no respite or support network. 

At this time of year, Ambitious about Autism’s UK-wide online forum ‘Talk about Autism’ is a lifeline for families – bringing together young people with autism and parents, so that they can share advice, support and friendship to help them feel less alone. 

Meanwhile, at TreeHouse School our staff work tirelessly to support each of our learners so they can enjoy the festivities as fully as possible.

True to our name, we are ambitious through and through, always thinking about where we can be tomorrow.

Help us, by giving a gift to support our work.

 £10 could help provide one-to-one support for learners to make their own decorations to hang on the Christmas tree this year.        

£25 could enable a TreeHouse pupil to go ice-skating – helping to improve physical  coordination and building confidence to do things all children love to do.        

£50 could support 60 minutes of our online community forum Talk about Autism.   

Thank you so much for your support.