Bristol Autism Support (BAS) has launched a ground breaking survey about autism diagnosis in Bristol.

The charity – which supports and informs families affected by autism in and around Bristol – is asking mums and dads to share their experiences of their child’s autism diagnosis process and the support they received during that time.

The organisation will collate the responses and share them with local NHS trusts and autism professionals. The goal is to help those involved with the diagnosis of autism gain important insights into the needs of the families they are working with.

The survey also asks families to share their thoughts on anything that helped them come to terms with their child’s diagnosis. BAS will turn this information into a booklet that will go to families going through the diagnosis process in order to direct them to support and help in the area.

Bristol Autism Support was founded in 2012 by Bristol mums Kate Laine-Toner, and formalised as a Community Interest Company in November 2013 with co-directors Lisa Garbelotto, Sam Nott and Zoe Scarbro. All have children with autism.

‘Going through the diagnosis process can be very scary and confusing,’ explains Kate. ‘Through our survey, we hope to help professionals and families in Bristol to make this experience as well-supported and holistic as possible.’

BAS provides information and support for families affected by autism in and around Bristol. The group aims to bring together local knowledge of autism professionals, services and the experiences of families raising a child with autism. They host a monthly support group and children’s activities in the school holidays.

The BAS Autism Diagnosis survey can be found on their website at www.bristolautismsupport.com.

If you are a Bristol mum and have a child with autism and would like more information, please contact:

Kate Laine-Toner on 07787 452164 or kate@bristolautismsupport.com