Foreword
Our new autism strategy is for people of all ages. It explains our goals for supporting autistic children, young people, and adults in Bracknell Forest over the next 5 years.
Autism affects how people see and interact with the world. It’s a spectrum, which means it looks different for everyone. Autistic people might communicate, think, or socialise in ways that are different from others. They may like routines, have strong interests, or be more sensitive (or less sensitive) to things like sound, light, or touch.
When we understand and respect these differences, we help make our community more welcoming and supportive for everyone.
We appreciate the strengths and contributions that autistic people bring to our communities and workplaces. We also understand that society isn’t always built in a way that supports autistic people physically, socially, or emotionally. That’s why we’re working to make things better and more inclusive.
Our all-age autism strategy is a plan for the future. It shows how we will work together: Bracknell Forest Council, Frimley NHS, Berkshire Healthcare Foundation Trust, and local community organisations, to support autistic children (and their parents or carers), young people, and adults. We want to help autistic people do well in school and work, spend time with friends and family and stay healthy and feel good.
We want every autistic person in Bracknell Forest to have a good quality of life.
Our shared vision is to make Bracknell Forest a welcoming and inclusive place for autistic people. We believe it’s everyone’s job to break down barriers and help create a community where everyone can take part and feel included
Our ambition is to make Bracknell Forest a place where autistic people can achieve their life goals. We know this can only happen if we all work together, Bracknell Forest Council, health services, and community organisations. That’s why we’ve all helped shape this strategy.
Together, we’re committed to making a real difference for autistic people in Bracknell Forest.
Grainne Siggins
Executive Director: People
Bracknell Forest Council
Tracey Faraday-Drake
Director for Children, Mental Health and Learning Disabilities
NHS Frimley Integrated Care Board