Autism Hampshire is launching two new support groups to support autistic adults.

The groups, located in Bitterne and Totton, will launch on August 12 and August 23 respectively.

The group in Bitterne will be specifically focused to the LGBTQ+ community after requests from existing members for more support and focus.

Under the banner of Serendipity Community Groups, the charity intends to enable adults with autism to socialise, gain peer backing, and learn new skills.

The groups are open to any adult over the age of eighteen identified as autistic, including those seeking or opting against a formal diagnosis.

Run by volunteers in various locations across Hampshire - Swanmore, Bordon, Basingstoke, Portsmouth, Southampton, the New Forest including New Milton, Shirley, Havant, Fareham, Eastleigh, Winchester - the charity provides support via two online groups, three skill-based groups, and ten social assemblies.

Autism Hampshire directs these groups but the content primarily revolves around the members' preference, ranging from games, crafts to discussions, and life skills teaching.

The Totton group will occur bi-monthly on Fridays from 1.15pm to 3.15pm.

The LGBTQ+ focused group in Bitterne will meet twice a month on Mondays from 10am to 12pm.

An existing member said: "I value that space once a fortnight. Life can be really hard and I look forward to reflecting and processing in the group.

Serendipity coordinator Sophie Palmer said: "Through the services we offer, we support a lot of autistic individuals with a range of sexual orientations so it’s great that we’re able to provide a safe space for autistic people to come together who may have had similar experiences.

"Some people may find the idea of coming to a group a bit challenging but that is what we’re there for. We’ll support people in a way that is best for them – that could be simply watching a session or coming for a small part of the session.

"Being autistic myself, I know how important these groups are to people, building a local community and preventing isolation. So I’m looking forward to starting these groups and having a positive impact on people’s lives."