About us
Autism Support Crawley is a voluntary carer led charity supporting fellow carers, caring for someone with an Autistic mind, with or without a diagnosis across Sussex and its borders
Who we are
Founded in 2007, Autism Support Crawley (ASC) began as a small, carer-led community group, providing a safe space for unpaid carers to connect, share experiences, and support one another. Over the years, our dedication to caring for carers led us to become a registered charity in 2017, allowing us to expand our reach and impact. Today, we support over 2,500 carers across Sussex, Brighton & Hove, Surrey, Kent, and the Hampshire borders.
Unlike many autism charities that focus primarily on autistic individuals, ASC was created with a different mission—to support those who dedicate their lives to caring for an autistic person. We understand that caregiving can be isolating, emotionally overwhelming, and often comes without the guidance or recognition it deserves. With limited support available for carers, we provide a lifeline of peer support, community, and practical resources to ensure they are not alone in their journey.
As the only autism-specific carer support charity in the region, we offer judgment-free spaces where carers can share their struggles, seek advice, and build connections with those who truly understand. Whether through our coffee mornings, evening meetings, online peer support, or closed Facebook group, our community provides a sense of belonging, reassurance, and solidarity. Many of our members express just how much ASC has meant to them, with one carer sharing, "I am glad I found this community. It has given me friends, and I know I/we are not alone. The face-to-face carer evenings are great—sometimes we talk about issues and suggest things to help each other, but sometimes we're just 'us,' and there is laughter and fun."
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The impact of our work extends beyond just support groups. Our educational resources and events, such as webinars and family activity days, have been deeply valued by our members. As one parent put it, "We love the family activity days. Fabulous, caring committee, etc." Another expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for the webinars," recognising the importance of accessible information and learning opportunities.
At ASC, we are a volunteer-led organisation, driven by the passion and dedication of those who have walked this path themselves. In 2022, we welcomed our first employee, further strengthening our ability to expand our services and advocate for autism carers. Every initiative we run—from peer support and information packs to fundraising and awareness campaigns—is designed to empower carers with the knowledge, support, and connections they need.
We are not just a charity; we are a community, a family. As one of our members so simply put it, "Autism Support Crawley is so helpful and a great support in all areas, it really does help me and my family." This is why we exist—to ensure that no carer ever feels isolated, unheard, or unsupported.
What we do
We are dedicated to supporting carers of autistic individuals, recognising that caregiving can often feel lonely and challenging. Our goal is to create a strong, understanding community for those who feel alone in their journey. Connecting with fellow carers can be incredibly rewarding, offering a sense of belonging and reassurance from others who truly understand their experiences and challenges.
While many organisations focus on direct support for autistic individuals, Autism Support Crawley exists to care for the carers. We know that the emotional, physical, and mental demands of caregiving can be relentless, often leaving carers feeling exhausted and without a support system of their own. That’s why we offer a range of support services tailored to meet the unique needs of carers—because you deserve to be heard, understood, and supported.
At Autism Support Crawley, we are not the solution to every challenge, but we are here to help. We believe that no carer should have to struggle alone—our community is here to lift each other up, offer encouragement, and create a sense of family where every carer feels valued and supported.
The Team
Our team is at the heart of Autism Support Crawley, working tirelessly to ensure that carers receive the support, guidance, and community they deserve. Comprised of dedicated individuals, many of whom have personal experience as carers themselves, our team understands the challenges and emotional toll that come with caring for someone with an autistic mind.
We are passionate about making a difference, using our collective skills, knowledge, and lived experiences to shape and enhance the services we provide. Whether it's organising peer support meetings, expanding online resources, or securing essential funding and sponsorships, every member of our team plays a crucial role in sustaining and growing the charity.
From our volunteers who offer their time and expertise, to our core leadership team who drive our mission forward, each person involved with Autism Support Crawley is committed to ensuring that no carer ever feels alone. Our work is driven by empathy, understanding, and a deep sense of community, and we take pride in creating safe, welcoming spaces where carers can share, learn, and connect.
Meet the team behind
Autism Support Crawley
Get to know the individuals who make our charity what it is today—the people who support the carers and work behind the scenes to keep our mission alive.
