Autism Hampshire urgently appeals for donations to fund Serendipity Community Groups for autistic adults
20th November 2024
Autism Hampshire has launched an urgent appeal to raise £50,000 to cover a critical shortfall in funding for our community group for autistic adults.
The groups have been running for over a decade and rely heavily on donations and grants to sustain the Serendipity Community Groups which provide essential support for over 200 autistic adults across Hampshire.
Due to challenging external fundraising environment, securing funding has become tougher than ever.
The Serendipity Community Groups, which are an essential resource for autistic adults facing social isolation and mental health challenges, offer a safe, welcoming environment for autistic adults where they can connect, develop friendships, and access support for their mental health and well-being.
“Without these groups, many of our members would feel isolated, without a place to truly be themselves,” said Maxine Gibson, Acting Head of Community Services at Autism Hampshire. "The groups allow people to unmask, make friends, and find the support they need.
“We have every faith and confidence that together, we can raise all the funding we need to keep the Serendipity Community Groups running. Every contribution helps, and the more support we receive, the better positioned we are to keep these vital services running long-term.
“We're hopeful that with the community’s generosity, we can close the gap and continue empowering autistic adults across Hampshire.”
We currently run groups at 14 locations across the county and they are open to any autistic adult over the age of 18, even if they are still waiting a diagnosis or have chosen not to receive a formal diagnosis.
As well as the Serendipity Community Groups, we also provide autism-focused training, supported living services, an Information, Advice and Guidance Team, a Local Autism Directory and an Autism Alert Programme for Emergency Services.
To make a donation or find out more about the campaign here.
Listen to Maxine Gibson, Acting Head of Community Services at Autism Hampshire, speak about the appeal:
Transcript: Here at Autism Hampshire we’re urgently calling for support to help fund our Serendipity Community Groups for autistic adults. These groups are vital lifelines for over 200 members each month across 14 locations in Hampshire. They provide safe spaces where autistic adults can make friends, build confidence, and access crucial mental health support. Sadly, we're facing a £50,000 shortfall in this year’s funding. Without these groups, many individuals risk increased isolation and mental health challenges. With people’s help, we can bridge this funding gap and continue supporting autistic adults who rely on Serendipity Community Groups. Every single donation counts, and your contribution can make a profound difference whether it be small or large. To donate or find out more, please visit autismhampshire.org.uk. We thank you for your support.