Autism Guernsey, HSC Partner on Parenting Programmes

Thursday 02 April 2026

The Committee for Health & Social Care (HSC) is pleased to announce a new three-year agreement commissioning Autism Guernsey to deliver a range of support programmes for parents and carers of autistic young people in Guernsey.

These programmes provide practical advice, guidance, and strategies to help families better understand and support autistic children and young people. The partnership reflects the vital role Autism Guernsey plays in the community and strengthens the shared commitment to improving outcomes for autistic people across the Bailiwick.

In 2026, funding of £24,000 will be given - matched by Autism Guernsey - for six programmes to be delivered. Funding levels may vary annually depending on the number and type of programmes delivered, as well as any additional services Autism Guernsey may be commissioned to provide in response to community need.

This funding arrangement is being announced on World Autism Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and championing inclusion for autistic people.

This agreement also supports the work of the Autism Steering Group, a strategic group within HSC that brings together professionals from across services, including third‑sector partners. The group is focused on improving the lives of autistic children and adults by identifying opportunities for better, more coordinated services. The new commissioning arrangement aligns with ongoing work following recent consultation feedback and represents a tangible step forward in delivering improvements the community has asked for.

The programmes being delivered are:

National Autistic Society Parent Programmes

• Early Bird Plus A six-week programme supporting parents and carers of autistic children aged 5-9.

• Teen Life
  A six-week programme supporting parents and carers of autistic young people aged 10-16.
  Autism Guernsey Programme

• Transition to Adulthood
  A four-week programme supporting parents and carers of autistic young people aged 15-18, including guidance on sensory needs and how to support young people as they move toward adulthood.
  On average, eight families attend each programme, with three spaces offered per family.

Julia Watts, CEO of Autism Guernsey, said:

"We are delighted to be commissioned to deliver these programmes, which make a real difference to families navigating the challenges and joys of raising autistic young people. This agreement makes up a small, but meaningful part of the £400,000 annual cost required to support Autism Guernsey each year. We value our partnership with HSC and look forward to working together to strengthen the support available to autistic people and their families across Guernsey."

Deputy Dr George Oswald, President of the Committee for Health & Social Care, said:

"Autism Guernsey plays an essential role in supporting families in our community, and we are pleased to formalise this partnership through a multi‑year agreement.

"While we recognise that there is still more work to do to improve the lives of autistic people in the Bailiwick, this commissioning arrangement is an important step forward. Alongside the Autism Steering Group and our third sector partners, we remain committed to working together to build services that are responsive, inclusive, and shaped by the voices of autistic people and their families."

Lucy Cook, Associate Director of Children & Family Community Services, said:

"These programmes provide families with practical tools and confidence at key stages of their child's development. We know how valuable it is for parents and carers to connect with others who share similar experiences, and this partnership ensures that support is available when families need it most. We are grateful to Autism Guernsey for their expertise and dedication, and we look forward to continuing this collaborative work."

Helen Deane, a parent who has taken the Teen Life course, said:

"The Teen Life parent course was useful and reinforced how autism never has one solution that can help everyone - it affects every individual in many ways. It was comforting to hear stories from other parents who understand the struggles.

"The programme was a great way of enhancing my understanding and taught me how I can apply what I learned to helping my daughter. If you're a parent with an autistic child, I recommend taking a course with Autism Guernsey to hear others' experiences and know you're not alone."