YOUNG people in Powys have been dishing out cake alongside some festive food for thought as part of wider work to raise awareness of autism locally this winter.

Staff and learners from Summergil House in Presteigne have been attending local events as part of an ongoing campaign to help communities in the Marches area become more autism friendly.

Colleagues and students from the school, run by specialist autism education and care provider Orbis Education and Care, most recently greeted visitors at the Kington Winter Food and Drink Festival on December 4 with some festive foodie treats, and took the opportunity to meet with a wide cross section of the local community at the same time.

Drew Brown, manager at Summergil House, also attended as part of Orbis Education and Care’s work connecting the young people it supports with their surrounding communities, and in support of wider UK strategy too.

“The pandemic has been a tougher time for many, our young people included, so it’s great to be finding new ways for those we work with to access and enjoy being a part of their local communities again,” said Drew.

“I’m really proud of the young people for their contribution to the festival. Most of all, it’s been really lovely to see them get involved with an event that has given them so much enjoyment.”

It is widely acknowledged that people with autism face multiple disadvantages throughout their lives, with many facing stigma and misunderstanding that can leave them lonely or isolated – an issue not helped by restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Earlier this year the UK Government announced a new autism strategy which, among other things, aims to tackle the inequalities and barriers autistic people face so they can live independent and fulfilled lives in response.

Orbis Education and Care runs 16 schools, residential homes and day facilities supporting children and adults to manage and overcome complex needs associated with autism, and is one of the UK’s leading specialist providers.

Powys, as Wales’ largest county, is home to two of its largest residential homes and schools, with Ty Bronllys near Brecon situated regionally alongside Summergil House.

Zahra Conway, chief people officer at Orbis, also attended the food festival and said: “Community involvement is vital in such a rural location, and events like the food festival in Kington have provided a truly valuable opportunity for our staff and especially our learners to meet other stall holders and members of the public too.

“We are always really grateful to the community for the warm welcome we receive, especially against the chill of the December air.”