Local families and individuals affected by autism are being invited to nominate a person or service that has made a real difference to their lives for a national awards ceremony.
The National Autistic Society (NAS) has just opened nominations for the second annual Autism Professionals Awards, which take place in March 2014. There are eight categories which recognise and reward services and professionals that lead the way in innovative autism practice and make a real difference to the lives of people with autism in the UK.
The charity would like to hear from anyone in the local area who feels that an organisation, teacher, doctor, psychologist or any other professional has had a significant influence on their lives or those of their loved ones. They might be a teaching assistant who has gone the extra mile to support a child's development at school or an outreach service that has been instrumental in helping an adult to develop their social skills and reach their full potential.
The 2014 Awards will be presented at the NAS' Professional Conference on 4 March 2014 at the Harrogate Royal Hall Theatre where the eight winners will receive national recognition for their outstanding achievements. The Judging Panel will consist of leading autism experts from a variety of professional backgrounds across the UK.
Carol Povey, Director of the Centre for Autism at the NAS said: "Groundbreaking work is going on across the UK to help improve the lives of people with autism and it is vital that we take the time to appreciate the individuals behind this success and celebrate their efforts. While autism can have a profound and sometimes devastating effect on individuals and families, we want to highlight just how much people with autism can achieve, if they are given the right support.
"The calibre of last year's entries was outstanding and we are excited about receiving nominations for the 2014 awards."
Steve Brine, a vice-chair of the All-Party Group on Autism, said: "These awards are a good thing in my book. The condition we call Autism spans such an enormous spectrum and, as such there will a great many people who touch the lives of those living with the condition.
"The professional support will be crucial but often in my experience it's a parent or even a sibling who makes life liveable; not because it's their job but simply because they love the person. I hope there will be a great many nominations from this area."
Pictured; Steve Brine and Jane Asher at a Parliamentary Autism event
More information ...
The closing date for entries is 27 October 2013. To find out more information about the Awards and the categories available, or to make a nomination please visit www.autismprofessionalsawards.org.uk.