MP backs Stratton autism centre (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

MP backs Stratton autism centre

AN AUTISM care centre in Stratton is going from strength to strength after being up and running for only three months.

Cotswold MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown recently gave his backing to the project during a visit to the new centre.

ARC (Autism Resource Centre) has received some complaints from residents who are concerned an autism centre in the neighbourhood might affect house prices.

But Mr Clifton-Brown, who returned from parliamentary business abroad this week, praised the work of the two ARC carers.

The MP said: "I was originally contacted by a constituent who was having trouble getting planning permission.

"Certain people in the neighbourhood had expressed worries there may be autistic children out of control.

"She then wrote to me after gaining planning permission to invite me to find out more about the care centre.

"I was impressed with the treatment that the children were receiving - there is a high level of adult supervision."

Mr Clifton-Brown also quashed concerns about house prices.

He added: "I see no reason why it would have any effect on house prices - people have prejudices about these sorts of things without knowing the full facts."

Both staff and patients also appreciated the backing of the Cotswold MP. Karen Mottram, who works with Leigh Potter, said: "It was really nice for him to come and be so supportive. It meant a lot because we have worked really hard to get this off the ground and we have not had good publicity with the neighbours."

ARC is hoping to take on more people in the coming months after their work with patients Ricky Mottram and Simon Greaves has proved successful.

Anyone who would like to find out more about ARC should contact Gloucestershire County Council's social services department on 01452 425000.

Karen added: "We have been going for three months and it has been absolutely wonderful. We're hoping to take on more people on and we have had quite a lot of interest so far. We will also take on referrals from social services.

"We haven't had many complaints, but one man came around and said he was worried about his house price going up. I was absolutely gutted. We are not even here that often because we are always out and about. It'll not affect house prices."