Families asked to help pioneering research

AN AUTISM expert from Hinckley is looking for families to take part in her pioneering research into the condition.

46-year-old Ruth Howard has developed a brand new programme for parents with autistic children, called Flourishing Futures.

Ruth’s project is based on a new approach towards autism and involves strengths-based development to support and help families.

She is currently looking for volunteers to take part in her research, with any parent who has an autistic child aged between two and 11 eligible.

Ruth, who herself has an autistic son, Billy, said: “It is really exciting to be moving into the next stage of the research and to bring the new theory and practice to local families.

“As a parent of an autistic adult,

Iunderstand how valuable it is to collaborate with the autistic community in all stages of research.

“We have previously held focus groups with parents and they have helped to shape and inform our programme.

“Through the programme, we aim to give parents the strategies to help their children to manage with everything life throws at them, as well as tools to boost wellbeing and decrease anxiety. “Flourishing Futures is a fantastic opportunity for local parents to help them support their children.”

Ruth is looking for local parents to join her over three days to learn how to learn this new approach, and how to use it with autistic children.

The research will continue for three months, with support given to all families taking part in the form of a website, an online forum and other resources.

If you are interested, please email ruth. howard@bucks.ac.uk