Areas look to become autism-friendly

There is estimated to be more than 12,000 people with autism in Surrey

Two areas in Surrey are launching a drive to become autism-friendly communities with a free event.

The Autism-Friendly Guildford and Waverley Launch Event will take place between 14:00 and 18:00 BST on Monday at G Live in Guildford.

Surrey County Council says the aim is to give autistic people more of a voice and to make it easier to access shops and services by improving understanding of the condition.

The council's cabinet member for adult social care, Sinead Mooney, said: "We aim to break down barriers and inequalities that autistic people face in their daily lives."

The event is for autistic people and their families, interested members of the public, local businesses and people who work supporting autistic people.

Families will be able to speak to local organisations hosting information stands while businesses and other community groups can seek advice about small adjustments they can make.

The event follows the launch of Autism-Friendly East Surrey.

Five autism-friendly communities are being set up across the county, with Surrey Downs coming next.

This is part of the county council’s all-age autism strategy.

Ms Mooney said the strategy "sets out a vision for an autism-friendly Surrey where autistic people, whatever their age, can lead healthy, safe and fulfilling lives".

During the development of Surrey’s all-age autism strategy, autistic people reported they had difficulty using community facilities such as shops and leisure centres.

There are estimated to be more than 12,000 autistic people in Surrey, the council says.