Due to funding cuts in the commissioning bodies of the West Cheshire Autism hub, the hub is sadly at very real risk of closure.  The current funding ceases on the 31st of January 2026. As a parent of several autistic adults, I witness every day the importance of support services such as the autism hub as part of Dial West Cheshire. This vital service is a lifeline for autistic adults and families like mine, offering resources, guidance, and a sense of belonging.

It has been a priviledge to be part of this community and to see first hand the meaningful connections that have been made. Yesterday, as members heard the news at pop in and chat, staff and members supported each other in a way that was moving to witness.

The staff always go that extra mile, giving a standard of service way above what they are commissioned to provide. This NEVER goes unnoticed by the autism hub community who are so appreciative of the support they receive. 

 The world is a chaotic and confusing place for many autistic individuals. Numerous barriers exist in every aspect of their lives, simply because the world is designed to meet an idea of 'normalcy' that is unattainable. The West Cheshire autism hub is passionate about breaking down these barriers. Autistic adults deserve inclusive spaces in the community where they truly belong. They shouldn't have to fight for these spaces and more importantly should not have to fight to keep something that is so valuable to them.

The West Cheshire Autism hub was created in collaboration with autistic adults and other key stakeholders. Since it's beginning, it has been a cornerstone in our community, providing crucial support services to autistic adults, aged 16 plus as well as their families. The support, the community, the friendships, the knowledge and experiences shared between staff and members alike are truly special. We often hear about the importance of community and belonging in terms of promoting wellbeing and good mental health outcomes. This is particularly critical as there is a significant incidence of mental health conditions, as well as suicide in the autistic community.

I appreciate that these are difficult times financially. However, to invest in the hub is to invest in the key messages put forward in the national autism strategy. Furthermore, it aligns with the Autism act (2009), the transforming care, project and even Cheshire West and Chester's own autism strategy.

CWAC's autism strategy states that the most significant gaps in autism services are for autistic adults, both locally and nationally. It pledges commitment to ensuring that both autistic children and adults receive the support that they need at every stage of life, without any necessary barriers to support or any inequities. The strategy states that they "will actively listen to neurodivergent residents, ensuring their voices drive real change rather than being a tokenistic addition to decision making processes".

I ask for more time, short term funding so that the hub and Dial West Cheshire can work on sustainability. Additionally and of particular importance, I would request consultation with autistic adults in our borough. After all, the hub originated after extensive collaboration with key stakeholders, especially those with lived experience. At this point, I have spoken to numerous autistic adults,  who are not aware that a consultation has taken place. Yet this decision impacts directly on them.

The autism community deserves stability and assurance that THEIR service will remain. Your signature on this petition can make a powerful statement to decision makers.
Please sign this petition, to help save the autism hub and keep a service that autistic adults in our borough both need and deserve.
Please sign this petition to show your support for them.