A LEADING autism charity has unveiled a new expert-led assessment and diagnosis centre in Dorset which aims to have a “monumental impact”.

The ribbon was officially cut to mark the opening Autism Unlimited’s new Chris Page Centre (CPC), which is based on the same site as the charity’s specialist Portfield School in Christchurch.

The centre will enable people from across the country to effectively bypass NHS referral times for their autism pre-assessment and diagnosis.

Staffed by an expert team of assessors, the centre can also provide adults, children and families with much needed post-diagnosis support via a community connect service – which gives links and introductions to other organisations such as local autism support groups.

Siún Cranny, Autism Unlimited CEO, said: “We are immensely proud to open The Chris Page Centre and I am extremely grateful to the whole team which has worked so tirelessly to make this centre a reality.

“This will quite simply have a monumental impact on so many lives.

“Once diagnosed, many autistic people not only understand themselves better, [but] they realise they are not alone in the way they feel.

“We would now like to hear from more specialists who can bring their expertise to the centre and also members of the public and businesses, keen to offer fundraising and sponsorship support, so we can all play a part in developing and funding this centre to its fullest potential.”

Bournemouth Echo: The Chris Page Centre was officially opened by opera singer and Autism Unlimited patron Sophia GrechThe Chris Page Centre was officially opened by opera singer and Autism Unlimited patron Sophia Grech

The opening of the CPC was conducted by opera singer Sophia Grech, who was diagnosed with autism aged 45.

Sophia said: “Diagnosis provided so many missing pieces of my jigsaw, helping me to understand who I am and giving me the clarity I always sought.

“Since my diagnosis so much has changed, both in my daily life and career. Positive changes which have greatly enhanced my life and the way I feel.”

The CPC was made possible by the estate of the late Chris Page, a trustee who was described as a “driving force” for Autism Unlimited.

Angela Westwell, an executor of the Chris Page estate, said: “Chris was a quiet, extremely modest man with a passion for helping others. This centre is a very fitting legacy for him and he would have been truly thrilled to see it open.”

Visit autism-unlimited.org/support/diagnosis/ for more information.