Autism Guernsey ‘a lifeline’ for some users – former coordinator
A former member of staff at Autism Guernsey has praised its team as it continues to work to replace their funding for children’s services.
Anne Blondel, who worked as autism coordinator for seven years, said she was ‘heartbroken’ to read that BBC’s Children in Need had stopped its ongoing grant to the local charity after eight years due to budget cuts.
The move puts local children’s services, which give 131 young people and their families and carers one-to-one support and social clubs, at risk from the end of the year.
‘Why is it always a struggle to keep a valuable service? I know what the services mean to those receiving it, for some, it is a life- line. Imagine that being pulled from you, it’s devastating,’ Ms Blondel said.
‘Autism Guernsey always tried their best on the very little funding they received – staff would go above and beyond to ensure one-to-one for those who couldn’t function in larger groups, and the Amazing Club did so much for young people who didn’t feel comfortable in other environments.
‘Bonds were formed with young people and their families as well as adults. There has been so many exciting adventures along the way.’
Ms Blondel acknowledged how services had expanded in previous years to accommodate the increased calls for support, and praised the team, including new chairman David Harry, who joined at the start of this month.
‘I was immensely proud to work for Autism Guernsey for many years before I retired, it was a privilege to provide some services that were not there before. [The team] has been there all these years, the behind-the-scenes people who have worked so hard for free to try to keep things moving which many people wouldn’t realise.’
After the failed application to Children in Need, Mr Harry has been working to find alternative and more sustainable funding.
Discussions have been had with the States as well as a Just Giving page being set up by a parent who is supported by the charity. As of yesterday it stood at more than £800.
‘I had a conversation to confirm that the States is interested in reaching a proper agreement and we plan to have another meeting to discuss a way forwards,’ Mr Harry said.
‘I hope to find a way to best provide both children and adult services, as well as talk about funds in relation to those previously given by Children in Need.’
