The mum of a son with severe autism has launched a new support group for families facing similar conditions to him.
Angela Buonocore has set up Spectrum of Love Spalding after struggling to find such support for her nine-year-old son Leo.
“The gap between support groups and activities for high care and low care needs and children and their parent carers is immense,” she said. “The group’s aim is to bring together parent carers of profoundly ASD (Autism Spectral Disorder) children and their children for regular parent carer social events during school hours, family stay, monthly play events and suitable trips out.
“It’s for those with kids like mine that need life long one-to-one care and supervision such as being non verbal or having no danger awareness.
“I have felt completely invisible at some local activities aimed at SEND (special educational needs and disabilities).”
Angela has teamed up with another parents of a child with severe ASD, Helen Chance for the group designated as ASD level three and above.
A private Facebook group for parents has also been set up with initial face-to-face sessions at the Be Bright Pre-School on Saturdays.
“I ran a successful group in Peterborough and we held many events and trips,” Angela said. “We also want to have regular coffee shop meet-ups for parents and have breakfast mornings.
“As a SEND teacher of 18 years, I also will be using my knowledge and expertise to run workshops for parent carers on various issues.”
For more information search for the Spectrum of Love Spalding Facebook group.
