Autism is a lifelong condition which often results in social communication difficulties, sensory integration issues and high levels of anxiety. This can impact on attaining & maintaining employment, education, housing, & building a social network- everything that enables us to lead independent lives!

The National Autistic Society- i Exist (2008) report found that adults with autism are often isolated, unable to access support and are dependent on their families:
- 63% of adults with autism do not have enough support to meet their needs
- 40% live with their parents
- 33% have experienced severe mental health difficulties because of a lack of support
- Only 15% are in full time employment
- 66% are not working at all including voluntary employment

The Autism Hub Islington is a user led initiative by and for adults with High-Functioning Autism and Aspergers but do not meet eligibility for health and social care services. For this group- who are often misunderstood and underrepresented, there is little or no alternative provision that is appropriate.

The aim of the Autism Hub is to provide information, support, signposting and host other events delivered through peer support & mentoring. The Hub will be the central point of access to autism services in Islington linking in and connecting with other agencies in the community to make them more autism aware & accessible. The Autism Hub will support users to build resilience and enable them to better manage life experiences.

The Autism Hub Islington will provide and facilitate the following:

*Preparing for employment
*Confidence building
*Friendships and building social networks
*Post diagnostic support with peers and facilitator
*Aspirational mentoring of younger adults
*Money Management workshops

Donations will be used to train volunteers, develop & maintain a website, rent for premises, & salary for sessional staff