Charity set up to help with 'loneliness' of autism

Kate Macaulay and her husband Simon (right) with their son James

A charity in Worcestershire which helps children with autism and their families was set up following the founder's "lonely" journey with his own son's diagnosis.

Simon Macaulay created Malvern charity SKY Autism in 2010 with his wife Kate because he wanted to help others after not having support when his son James was diagnosed with autism.

He said: "We always felt if we had the energy we'd like to do something to help."

In 2023, the charity received £30,000 from Children In Need and is one of 21 projects that Children In Need funds across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Mr Macaulay said: "It started in a very small way and I can't quite believe where it's got to these days.

"We appreciate it so much because it enables the groups to run and it's as simple as that.

"So thank you very much to everyone who's raised money because we have really benefited."

Ruth Wharton, who works at SKY Autism, described it as a "safe place" for the children to "make friends"

Ruth Wharton, who works at SKY Autism, said: "Many of the young people here haven't been able to go along to other groups or they have gone to other groups and they haven't maybe felt so welcome or accepted.

"Whereas here, they get a big welcome and they're accepted for who they are. It's just a very safe environment where they can make friends."

Andrew Baddeley is among many parents who has received support from the charity.

Andrew Baddeley is among the many parents who has received help from the charity. His son is largely non-verbal and has been attending sessions at SKY Autism for three years.

Mr Baddeley said: "It's great being able to leave him alone and not have to be watching him.

"He's grown in confidence so much since being here."