A Penrith-based charity dedicated to supporting local people with autism is celebrating after receiving a significant funding boost. The Triple A Project has been awarded a generous £1,500 donation from housebuilder Barratt Homes to help sustain its essential community services. This welcome financial support will be directed towards running the charity's community clubs and vital local work.
Charity's Background
The Triple A Project was established 10 years ago in February 2016 by a grandparent of a young person with autism. The charity helps people with autism share experiences, make friends, and navigate life through various initiatives, including a special mentor programme. It also runs social groups across Cumbria for autistic adults to meet and socialise, currently taking place in Penrith, Carlisle, Whitehaven, Maryport, Kendal, Barrow, and virtually.
Impact and Growth
Sheila Gregory from the Triple A Project said: “We were delighted to receive this donation from Barratt Homes. Triple A Project was founded to improve opportunities for autistic people in the area and to give the wider community a better understanding of neurodivergent people. The organisation has grown over the last 10 years and now provides a number of programmes, community clubs, and groups ranging from workshops for those newly diagnosed to inclusive at-work projects and dealing with mental health issues. We have around 200 service users and 15 staff members across Cumbria. Most of our staff and volunteers are neurodivergent themselves, which helps build confidence with our users as they share and understand the same issues. The £1,500 donation is most welcome and will be used towards our community clubs and work.”
Broader Context
According to the National Autistic Society, more than one in 100 people in the UK have a form of autism, representing at least 700,000 individuals, many of whom are likely undiagnosed. Charities like the Triple A Project provide guidance to those struggling and improve regional support. The money was donated as part of a community fund scheme run by the housebuilder's parent company foundation.
Donor's Statement
Rhys Nicholson from Barratt Homes said: “We are proud to support the Triple A Project as it continues to assist neurodivergent people in Cumbria. It offers much needed support for many people and we are pleased to hear of the vast number of projects it is running. We wish the charity all the best with its future activities and growth, and encourage all who are able to support such a worthy cause to do so.”
