Miller Homes funding Boosts Social Inclusion for Autistic Adults in Runcorn

Miller Homes is pleased to share that it has supported The Autism Wellbeing Project CIC in facilitating two impactful initiatives aimed at enhancing the wellbeing and social inclusion through its Community Fund.

The Autism Wellbeing Project CIC is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting autistic adults in Runcorn and surrounding areas. The organisation aims to create a supportive environment where autistic individuals can thrive and fulfil their potential. With a focus on community engagement and empowerment, the organisation strives to enhance the quality of life for autistic adults and foster a more inclusive society.

The £500 funding, provided by the Miller Homes’ Community Fund, supported  the charity’s festive Christmas Party last year, for almost 20 autistic adults, which saw service users celebrate an evening filled with gifts, delicious food, refreshing drinks, games, and fun activities.

Funding will support the organisation’s ‘café social’, held once a week for three weeks at The Honeypot Café in Brookvale Community Centre, Runcorn. The events provide a vital opportunity for individuals to build connections, share experiences, and feel a sense of belonging within their community.

Jordan, a valued member at the project shared, “I really enjoyed the party and cafe socials because I got to meet new people in a safe environment. This then made me feel comfortable with the project and now I get 10hrs of personal assistant support from them each week to help me with daily tasks, organisation and getting out the house.”

With more than 1 in 100 people in the UK being autistic and the country spending around £32 billion each year in care and lost earnings to support autistic children and adults, the importance of interventions and support for autistic individuals cannot be overstated.

The Community Fund was set up by Miller Homes to give local groups the opportunity to apply for donations between a minimum of £250 and a maximum of £2,000 as part of the builder’s ongoing commitment to support communities. The second round of community funding is now open for 2024, and Miller Homes encourages all local community and charity groups to apply before closing date, Wednesday 24^th April 2024.

Emily Abbott, Director of The Autism Wellbeing Project CIC, commented, “At The Autism Wellbeing Project, we believe in taking an innovative and holistic approach to support. The generous donation from Miller Homes’ Community Fund has enabled us to create enriching experiences and social opportunities for autistic adults, promoting their wellbeing and enhancing their quality of life.”

Clare Noakes, Miller Homes’ Sales Director for the North West, added: “Miller Homes is proud to support The Autism Wellbeing Project CIC in their mission to enhance the wellbeing and social inclusion of autistic adults in Runcorn and beyond. With over 1 in 100 people in the UK being autistic and significant annual spending to support them, our Community Fund aims to make a meaningful impact. Through initiatives like festive celebrations and café socials, we’re fostering vital connections and enriching lives.”

The Autism Wellbeing Project CIC, situated near Miller Homes’ ‘coming soon’ development, Lunts Heath Rise in Widnes. The site promises to bring 328 new sustainability-built houses to the area, which will include a number of 2, 3, 4 and 5-bedroom homes, providing an ideal setting for a place to call home. For updates on the new site, visit the website.

Photography credit: Ian Cooper