When you are a young person or adult with a diagnosis of autism, day-to-day activities can sometimes be difficult.
Just getting out and about can take a real strain on the yourself and your family.
It can be good to know that there are activities and events available within Leicestershire that can provide entertainment in an autism-friendly environment, or just help and advice when you need it.
Here, we&apos;ve pulled together a listing of those services that we think may be of use to families and young adults.
Phoenix Cinema in the city offer an &apos;access cinema&apos; service. Part of this offering is autism friendly screenings in a supportive environment with reduced sound levels, partially raised lighting, no trailers and freedom to move around. They also look to provide a separate space to relax in. Find out more about their autism-friendly cinema screenings.
The Leicestershire Autistic society list a number of support groups that families and young adults can take advantage of.
The group aim to share information and arrange events for families with children on the Autistic spectrum.
Meetings are monthly on the first and third Saturday of the month from 10am until 12 noon.
This group is a small friendly group who meet for tea and coffee, a chat and to hear various speakers.
Meetings are on the last Monday of the month at 7.30pm.
Spectrum-MH is a support group for parents and carers of children and adults with ASD in South Leicestershire.
Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month during term time at 7.30pm.
Contact: Helen Jordan 07831 349574 or see here .
Jigsaw provides activities, support, information and advice for families with autistic children from 0-19 yrs. The group is run by parents. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month between 7pm-9pm. At the Cafe, Salvation Army, Ladysmith Road, South Wigston, Leics LE18 4UZ.
Reality aims to support the whole family unit affected by ASD/Asperger Syndrome. No formal diagnosis is required. The group organises activities, trips and outings for the whole family. These meetings are held at Braunstone Sure Start, Gallards Hill, Braunstone, Leicester LE3 1QR.
The Monday Club is a social group for adults (18+) with Aspergers Syndrome. The group meetings offer a warm, safe and friendly environment where planned opportunities are available for the group to help improve their social skills and experiences.
Translate hold informal monthly meetings for adults with Aspergers and those who love them. They offer support, an information pool and signposting to relevant support services.
Find out more about the NHS short breaks service.
The University of Leicester offer support for students with Asperger syndrome / autism spectrum condition and students use the AccessAbility Centre on a regular basis. They have also made a helpful video to introduce the service.