A CHARITY which offers specialist teaching for young people with autism is searching for new premises.

Autism Wessex, which runs Portfield School in West Parley, also operates a Lifeskills Centre in Christchurch.

The centre helps to prepare those aged 14 and over for adulthood and the working world but it is outgrowing its Magdalen Road premises.

Now it is appealing for new premises to buy or rent in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Ringwood.

It is calling on local people and businesses to get in touch if they know of any suitable premises between 3,000 and 10,000 sq ft in size.

Students take part in a range of learning opportunities at the current site in Christchurch.

There are opportunities to follow the national curriculum and learn new skills in preparation for independence.

Now the charity needs to find suitable premises to adapt to increasing numbers.

Siún Cranny, CEO of Autism Wessex, said; “We are delighted that numbers are increasing as there is a great need in the area to provide young autistic students with these opportunities.

“Further education is a crucial part of the learning journey for any young person and particularly if they face the challenges of autism too.

“We are itching to start work on this expansion and we need your help.

“We are struggling to find the right space and we are appealing to anyone who may know of a local building that might become available.

“Are you a business that’s considering subletting or selling your office space now that your employees are working from home? Are you a care home or other educational establishment that might wish to share premises or discuss opportunities? We would love to hear from you.”

For further details or to discuss any possible opportunities please contact Ken Cownden, Autism Wessex’s Property Consultant at Ken.Cownden@autismwessex.org.uk.

Founded in 1968, Autism Wessex is the regional charity providing specialist support to anyone affected by autism across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Somerset.

Anyone who wants to find out more information about Autism Wessex should go to autismwessex.org.uk or @autismwessex on Facebook and Twitter.