Sophie Mitchell on a new service for autistic children and young people

A group of people standing outside a red brick building — Cllr Pauline Coakley-Webb opening the Autism Hub – (Credit – Barnet Council)

A new specialist hub for autistic children and young people opened in the borough this month.

The new Barnet Children & Families Autism Hub on Finchley Road, launched on Tuesday 15th July, is a collaboration between Barnet Council and Resources for Autism, a charity providing autistic youth with specialist support.

The hub is dedicated to supporting autistic young people and creating an environment where families can access information and support before and after an autism diagnosis.

The hub will serve as a community centre, offering Barnet’s autistic youth a range of social events and workshops tailored to the autistic community. In addition to this, it will provide a space for health and social care professionals to deliver their services. With the option of either in-person or online appointments, staff and partners at the centre will be available to answer questions and assist families.

Alex Tate, hubs service manager at Resources for Autism, added: “We are excited to collaborate with Barnet Council on the Barnet Children & Families Autism Hub.

“By working together, we will provide essential support and resources to families, helping them navigate their autism journey with confidence and understanding.”

Sand, whose child attends the Hub, said: “When I come to see you [at the hub], and I’ve come maybe three or four times, I leave feeling good. I feel hopeful. I tell myself my son is doing well, he’s improving, he’s capable. It gives me positive energy.”

To find out more about the services available at the hub go to: https://www.resourcesforautism.org.uk/barnet-cf-autism-hub/

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