CHESTER's MP and Lord Mayor have recognised the work of the West Cheshire Autism Hub.

The Lord Mayor of Chester, Councillor Sheila Little, and the MP for Chester Samantha Dixon were guests at the West Cheshire Autism Hub recently.

Originally based at The Bluecoat, in Chester, the Autism Hub first opened its’ doors in 2021.

By working in partnership with other organisations, they have provided a welcoming space for autistic adults, aged 16 and above, and their families to visit and access a range of services.

In May 2023 the service transitioned to a new base at disability charity, Dial West Cheshire, Disability Rights Centre and Community Café at Dial House in Chester.

The relocation has been hugely successful due to closely aligned values and shared aims of providing high quality and accessible support for disabled people.

Speaking at the event, Karen McGuinness, Strategic Autism Manager, said: “With the relocation we have been able to continue to deliver much-needed support for autistic adults and their families/carers, providing a welcoming and inclusive space in the community.”

The service works across the borough to ensure members from different areas of Cheshire West can access the service.

Future plans include working in partnership with Vivo Care Choices to support an autism drop-in service in Winsford.

Lord Mayor of Chester, Cllr Sheila Little said: “It does look as though you have found a home where you can be comfortable within an organisation, Dial West Cheshire that shares your values, and will support you in meeting your objectives.”

Samantha Dixon MP added: “I would like to wish the team at the West Cheshire Autism Hub all the best for the future.

"I look forward to seeing what the future holds for such a fantastic service.”

During the event, the hub’s team of staff and volunteers, who have lived-experience of autism themselves, announced the launch of new resources for autistic adults and their families available from the Autism Hub website, including autism-specific information and training courses.

To access these resources, and stay up to date with future developments, head to the West Cheshire Autism Hub website: www.westcheshireautismhub.org.uk