National Lottery Community Funding for Space4Autism

Space4Autism provides vital support for families in the community and local MP, David Rutley was pleased to see the charity’s work acknowledged once again by the National Lottery Community Fund.

He recently met Cheryl Simpson MBE, Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Space4Autism to discuss funding priorities and the ongoing support the charity provides for so many local families.

The much-valued Macclesfield based charity has received an additional £289,080 from the National Lottery Community Fund to support its Space to Prosper project. This funding will allow the charity to continue and expand its outreach and drop-in sessions for children, young people and adults with autism, as well as their families and carers across Cheshire East. The sessions provide information about diagnosis, Space4Autism activities and coping mechanisms to overcome issues such as social exclusion, isolation and mental health and wellbeing.

Since opening in 2005, Space4Autism (S4A) has seen increased demand year on year with over 8,000 members now accessing the services. The dedicated team of staff and volunteers provides advice and support through a range of services, such as, parent support group meetings, workshops for professionals and carers, and clubs for young people. The S4A café, which is autism friendly, is a firm favourite and is open to the whole community, offering high quality and affordable meals.

Ms Simpson explained that the charity is continuing to grow and will be offering new services, such as “Space 4 ASC Adults” in the new year. This session will be for Autistic Spectrum Condition Adults to join in games and activities or take time out in the sensory room. David was also pleased to hear that Space4Autism continues to develop its partnership working with organisations such as, Just Drop In and the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Trust, (our local mental health provider), enabling families and individuals to access a range of services under the same roof. 

Speaking after the visit, David said:

“Space4Autism’s important work is greatly valued by many families in our area. It is great to see that the National Lottery has once again acknowledged the team’s fantastic contribution. I know the funding will go a long way in extending their “Space for Prosper” project, enabling services to reach more families and provide vital support over the months ahead.”

Pictured - David Rutley MP and Cheryl Simpson.