A GROUP which helps hundreds of children and young people with autism is threatened with closure due to lack of funds.

Bradford Autism Support has been described as a “lifeline” for its work helping families with children on the autistic spectrum. It also supports those who are awaiting diagnosis.

The registered charity, based in Caledonia Street, relies on funding from outside bodies as well as donations to meet its annual operating costs of £170,000 a year. But funds are in danger of being exhausted, leaving the centre at risk of closure.

Big Lottery funding of £400,000 secured four years ago is coming to an end in March and the outcome of a further application will not be known until later in the year.

Annual funding of £28,000 from Bradford Council is unlikely to be renewed to a change in funding criteria, although a new council funding stream may be available.

The grant-making charity the Henry Smith Foundation awards a yearly sum of £25,000 to the centre, which will last until October, when a new application will be necessary.

“From March we will experience a shortage of funds which will leave us in a crisis situation. Surviving beyond April is going to be very difficult.”

More than 300 children a year are helped, and the service has around 800 parents and carers on its register.

With a team of specialist staff and knowledgeable volunteers it offers information and guidance in areas such as behaviour, communication and social interaction. Facilities include a ball pool, craft area and sensory room.

Mark Glenton, who serves on the committee at the centre, was referred to the service after his daughter was diagnosed and is now being supported as his son awaits diagnosis.

He said: “As a family, the help we received was life-changing. It is also good to meet other parents who are in a similar situation. They pass on their ideas. When you are first diagnosed or awaiting diagnosis you don’t know what to do.”

Parent Jane Warburton, of Wyke, takes her son Josh, who is awaiting diagnosis.

"There is nowhere else. He absolutely loves it and looks forward to going," she said. "It is especially good in the summer holidays. Parents can get a break too, and go for a coffee and chat. It would be awful if it were to close."

Project manager David Riley said: “As well as supporting parents and carers we also work with teaching staff at schools and deliver training to other professionals such as social workers and care support staff. We also help people with benefit issues, and let them know what they may be entitled to.

The service is holding a fun day at its base, 89 Caledonia Street, opposite Bradford Police headquarters, to raise awareness and help raise funds on Sunday January 31 from 11am to 5pm.

l Page 10: Autism support in crisis.