North East of England based autism charity Daisy Chain has been handed £290,000 in National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) money to create community hubs to combat loneliness.

The hubs will be set up across the Tees Valley area and are aimed at tackling loneliness among neurodivergent and autistic adults.

Called My Life, My Community Project the community social groups will offer a range of activities and skills workshops, covering issues such as travel, cooking and community safety.

The sessions are designed with autistic and neurodivergent people “ensuring their needs and preferences are met”.

The NLCF funding to launch the hubs is for three years.

“Promoting community inclusion for autistic adults is crucial for addressing loneliness, enhancing mental health, fostering personal growth, challenging stigma, empowering individuals, and advocating for equal rights and opportunities,” said Daisy Chain head of adult services Hayley Matthews.

“It is a fundamental step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all.”

She added: “Autistic people are four times more likely to be lonely compared to the general
population, with 79% reporting feelings of social isolation.

“This is unacceptable, and our new service aims to create accessible spaces across the region where autistic adults can connect, develop friendships, and be empowered to grow and thrive within their own local community.”

NLCF head of funding for the North East and Cumbria said: “The award fits with The National Lottery Community Fund’s four key missions, which are to support communities to come together, be environmentally sustainable, help children and young people thrive and enable people to live healthier lives.

“We hope this award will ensure more autistic and neurodivergent adults throughout
the region receive the support they need to thrive and grow.”

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