Umbrella Autism is the group for everyone in Cambridgeshire interested in autism, Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder and related conditions.

Umbrella is an independent registered charity which is also affiliated with the National Autistic Society (NAS). We provide a local link to the NAS.

We're called "umbrella" because we are an umbrella for a wide range of activities, support, opportunities for learning related to autism. The range of what we offer depends on the interests and ability of members to have a go (in a small group or pairs) facilitating that activity. Umbrella then aims to encourage people to identify their own needs, to have confidence in what they have to offer others and to support them in this.

Umbrella is for those interested in any autistic spectrum condition.

We welcome those considering whether to seek a diagnosis, those waiting for a diagnosis, and their friends and families --- as well as those who are just interested.

We are concerned about autistic conditions affecting all ages --- toddlers, children, teens, young adults and older adults.

We welcome all and respect differences. Autism affects people, their families and friends regardless of culture, colour, nationality, education, class or values.

Umbrella recognises differences in need and the importance of choice. Umbrella is working to develop a variety of different kinds of support for those who live and work with autism in Cambridgeshire.

To support people with autism of all ages, as well as their families, friends and mentors.

To welcome those working in the field of autism to meet informally and learn side-by-side with those living with autism, their friends and families.

To promote greater public understanding of autistic spectrum conditions within Cambridgeshire.

To give those affected by autism and related conditions a voice in the community and its services.

To promote joint working and partnerships across groups and agencies to reduce the disadvantage experienced by those affected by autism and their families.

To increase access to services for all whose lives are affected by autistic spectrum conditions.

To promote the development of community opportunities for those whose lives are affected by autistic condition, including giving support and encouragement to members who have ideas for opportunities

We organise and support a range of activities (in response to demand) offering local information, informal contact and support among all those interested in autism.

Through these, it reduces isolation of those living and working with autism.

Through its various activities, it helps people draw skills, strategies and knowledge out of living or working with autistic conditions. Through Umbrella, members can use autism as a springboard for lifelong learning for everyone affected.

Umbrella services and activities depend on member volunteers. Members are all balancing their contributions to Umbrella activities with managing those aspects of their life most affected by autism (including family life, parenting, or their work with people affected by autistic conditions). Together we can create the kinds of services we would like our community (affected people, families, friends and autism workers) to have.

Umbrella autism is a partnership organisation. We can form partnerships between Umbrella and other organisations to help us provide together the kinds of opportunities and services we want for the Cambridge area.

Umbrella Autism is an umbrella for what members want for people who live and/or work with autism in Cambridgeshire.