About PACT
A lived experience led charity
PACT for Autism is a small charity based in Harlow, dedicated to connecting with neurodiverse families, autistic people of all ages and the wider community across West Essex.
We have built links with the community and services over many years, working and advocating to promote acceptance, knowledge & strong working relationships.
Our aim is to improve living, working, social and leisure opportunities for autistic people of all ages and their families.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access our events or services. We welcome anyone who identifies as Autistic, is seeking a diagnosis/connection for themselves or a child, or wants to learn more about neurodiversity and Autism.
We started as a collection of Parents of Autistic children who wanted connection, support and to improve access to services, we have made life long friendships , continuing to learn from each other, we have grown into the charity you see today.
Founded in December 2005 by a group of parents aiming to connect families and work to improve services along with creating opportunities for all to thrive in an inclusive society. In 2012, PACT became a registered charity. As our community grew and more adults began reaching out we expanded our focus to all ages. If you would like to learn more please go across to our History page.
Our staff, trustees, and volunteers have personal experience of autism and neurodiversity, bringing valuable lived experience to our work.
What does PACT offer :
- Connection To our team, community and services across all ages, individually or in groups
- What’s On where you can find our events, drop in sessions, activities and more
- Signpost to services and organisations
- Explore from a lived experience perspective
- Talks and workshops from a lived experience perspective
- Sharing information via email - Register with us to receive our regular Community information and What's on emails
- Links within the wider Community to promote acceptance, knowledge, strong relationships and opportunities
PACT does not provide :
- A referral based service
- Counselling
- Individual support services in your home/ out and about.
- Individual Advocacy support
- A helpline - you can contact us and leave a message and one of our team will come back to you, via your preferred communication method
