Autism Initiatives UK was first established in 1972. 

The charity grew from the work of Pat Minshull who was concerned about the lack of specialised help available for her son Peter, who has autism.  

A successful fundraising campaign resulted in the establishment of Peterhouse School in Southport.

By 1985 Autism Initiatives UK had developed an additional facility, Petersfield Autistic Community in Crosby, which provided services for young adults.   

         Pat Minshull House, Crosby.

The organisation has continued to grow as it has responded to the needs of individuals with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families.

It is recognised that increased rates of autism and related disorders be accepted as an urgent public health concern and we have responded to the increased need and now have an acclaimed national reputation for leading the way in supporting people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

We currently provide direct support for over 600 individuals in over 80 locations throughout the north of England, Isle of Man, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Ireland.  

Statement of Purpose

Autism Initiatives UK exists to enable persons within the autism spectrum to be fully included, participating members of their community through advocacy, public awareness and education.  We also aim to ensure that people with autism receive the opportunity to:-

• Secure lifelong access to specifically tailored services
• Progress opportunities for personal development
• Receive support for their families

Philosophy

It is our belief that all people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder have the potential to communicate independently, to take responsibility for their own lives and environment at a level that allows them to experience success and to develop self-esteem and confidence.

Our services are user led and we aim to work in partnership with all service users helping them to develop successful and independent communication, according to individual skills, needs and preferences, working within a total communication environment.

Aims and Objectives

Autism Initiatives UK seeks to be a major provider of direct support services to children and adults with ASD.  In addition, where we work with people with ASD, and families affected by ASD, we aim to provide exemplary services.

Our primary objective is to provide direct support services to people with ASD.

These services should be:

• Person centred
• Of the highest quality possible
• Provided at the most affordable cost
• Based on current of good practice in supporting people with ASD
• Responsive to the changing needs of individuals.

We also aim to disseminate our knowledge and experience of good practice in service delivery at a national and international level.

AUTISM INITIATIVES UK

7 CHESTERFIELD ROAD

LIVERPOOL

MERSEYSIDE

L23 9XL

Company No. 02436777

Registered Charity No. 702632