The future of a series of community groups for autistic adults is in jeopardy due to a £50,000 funding shortfall. 

Autism Hampshire have launched an urgent appeal for help to save the Serendipity Community Groups, which run in 14 locations across Hampshire, including Southampton, Shirley, Totton, Eastleigh, Fareham, New Milton, Swanmore, and Winchester. 

They provide essential support for more than 200 autistic adults, who enjoy art, drama, wildlife walks, yoga and more. 

The charity, which has been operating these groups for over a decade, relies heavily on donations and grants to sustain them and says securing funding has become tougher than every before. 

An essential resource for autistic adults facing social isolation and mental health challenges, the groups offer a safe, welcoming environment for autistic adults where they can connect, develop friendships, and access support for their mental health and well-being.

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"Without these groups, many of our members would feel isolated, without a place to truly be themselves," said Maxine Gibson, Acting Head of Community Services at Autism Hampshire.

"The groups allow people to unmask, make friends, and find the support they need.

"We have every faith and confidence that together, we can raise all the funding we need to keep the Serendipity Community Groups running. Every contribution helps, and the more support we receive, the better positioned we are to keep these vital services running long-term.

“We're hopeful that with the community’s generosity, we can close the gap and continue empowering autistic adults across Hampshire."

The groups are open to any autistic adult over the age of 18, even if they are still awaiting a diagnosis or have chosen not to receive a formal diagnosis.

Serendipity Community Groups meet regularly in person and online and are usually run by a trained volunteer alongside the Autism Hampshire team and community partner organisations. 

As well as the Serendipity Community Groups, Autism Hampshire also provides autism-focused training, supported living services, an Information, Advice and Guidance Team, a Local Autism Directory and an Autism Alert Programme for Emergency Services.

Visit autismhampshire.org.uk to make a donation.