Vital Glasgow autism support group almost tripled in one year

Autisfun, based in Barmulloch, holds playgroups for kids with additional support needs at the BCDC base in North Glasgow.

The birthday event was attended by dozens of participants, who were delighted by toys, games, glitter tattoos, a bouncy castle, cake and more.

Looking back on the year, Lyndsay Flemming, co-founder of the group, said: "In one word, it has been busy.

"We started the group with 30 children, one session a week and by week two, we had to upgrade that to two sessions a week.

"We cater to so many.

"We now have around 140 families who come on our trips, dipping in and out.

"The hall is now too small and we are having to turn people away, which we hate doing.

"We've done trips, organised a fundraiser and also cater to parents.

"A lot of them don't really get to socialise so now we do that together."

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The service was started by local mothers to compensate for the lack of support from authorities.

It serves as a safe place for families who otherwise have difficulties going to events and celebrations.

To keep up with demand, Autisfun is now looking for a permanent home with a bigger capacity.

Cheryl Maxwell, co-founder, said: "We have been looking into buildings, trying to sort some help.

"We are also advancing with our charity application form.

"We are putting a hell of a lot into this place on a weekly basis, on top of our own jobs.

"Year one is over and done with and year two, we are just going to make it bigger."

Councillor Thomas Rannachan, who attended the event, said: "It was great to be able to celebrate the first anniversary of Autisfun who are a remarkable group of people, superstars in fact.

"The respite and welcome they provide to so many parents, doing their best to raise their young stars under more difficult circumstances is such a boon for our area.

"Such is the demand, they are now bursting at the seams and it’s the responsibility of all relevant stakeholders to support them in any way possible.

"Here’s to many more celebrations.”