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The salty tang of sea air. The warmth of the sun. Eating fish and chips on the beach. These words describe holiday experiences that lots of us take for granted. However, many adults with autism are unable to experience these simple pleasures due a combination of their condition and a lack of finances. We believe that everyone has the right to a holiday and to the experiences and memories they create. We want to help ensure that adults with autism are able to benefit from holidays.
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Beneficiaries
Situation
NORSACA’s Residential Services care for 48 adults with autism. These individuals need a high level of care and, in the majority of cases, their condition precludes them from employment. Therefore their personal income consists only of benefits and they are unable to afford to pay for a holiday for themselves. These vulnerable adults would benefit greatly from going on holiday. Deciding on the location of a holiday and the activities that will take place whilst they are away give people control and choice over their lives. In addition, going on holiday gives people the experience of new environments, new activities and the chance to meet new people. A holiday also provides people with memories that will last a lifetime and can be shared with family and friends. Ultimately, a holiday enriches an individual’s life. A holiday can have a positive impact that will be felt for the rest of the person’s life. Whilst people with autism like the certainty and reassurance provided by a regular daily routine, it does not mean that they do not wish to try new activities and visit new places. However, their autism can mean that they need support from skilled support workers both before and during the holiday to ensure that they are able to fully enjoy the new experiences. We wish to set up a Holiday Fund which will pay for a selection of holidays; ranging from short weekend breaks, five day holidays within the UK or even holidays of a lifetime. NORSACA want people with autism to enjoy a holiday of their choosing; without the worry of outlay. The fund will be managed by a panel made up of NORSACA staff, a trusted landlord and the parents of individuals with autism. The panel members will not be connected with NORSACA Residential Services to ensure impartiality. The panel will decide on how the money in the fund is to be distributed to ensure that as many people as possible are able to benefit from a holiday. Research has shown that holidays can cost from £400 - £850 for each individual. This cost covers the cost of travel, hiring the accommodation, activities that take place on the holiday and the all important support needed to facilitate the holiday. Your support will help us to enrich the lives of adults with autism, giving them memories that will last a lifetime.