Empowering and supporting autistic children, young people, adults and their families for over 40 years.

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Who we are

Founded in 1980 by a group of parents who came together to establish Thornhill Park School in Sunderland, the North East Autism Society grew out of a desire to provide a better standard of education for autistic children. Having remortgaged their homes to purchase the building, our founders were dedicated to helping autistic young people fulfil their potential - and that commitment remains at the heart of everything we do.

How we can support you

Find out more about the vital autism-specific services we provide for individuals and their families across the region.

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Author: Abby Patterson

Start your career with us

Do you want to make a positive difference to the lives of others? Click here to view our latest vacancies.

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Author: Jess Galley

How we change lives

We love to celebrate the progress, achievements and development of the incredible children, young people and adults we support.

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Author: Jess Galley

Fundraising stories

Read about the incredible supporters who have raised funds in aid of our lifeline services.

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Author: Jess Galley

Resources for families

Our free downloadable resources are designed to help families navigate the day-to-day challenges of life.

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Author: Abby Patterson

Our impact

6,098

Autistic people and their families supported

53

Sites throughout the North East

1,263

Dedicated staff working in education and care

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First lambs born at New Warlands Farm

As the sun finally comes out for May, we welcome the first new arrivals to our flock at New Warlands Farm.

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Author: Michael Hoyle

Careers Open Day - New Warlands Farm

If you are looking for a rewarding role and think you could make a positive difference to the lives of autistic adults we want to hear from you! Click here for more information about our Recruitment Open Day.

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Tickets: From £0.00

Author: Abby Patterson

Location: New Warlands Farm,, Durham

Autistic youngsters from North-East win big at national charity award

A group of young autistic film-makers from the North East beat hundreds of national and international charities to win two silver medals at a prestigious charity film award in London.

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Author: Abby Patterson

North East Autism Society launches £5.5m plan to create 60 new jobs for autistic people

THE ambitious project to transform the 77 acre site at New Warlands Farm will feature a cafe and shop, accessible walks, and a rare breed farm park.

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Author: Michael Hoyle

Latest activities

  • Kiora Hall Summer Fair

    Join us for our Summer Fayre on Saturday, 20 July at Kiora Hall School in Stockton. Read more

  • New Warlands Farm Summer Fete

    Join us for our annual Summer Fete on Saturday, 6 July at our New Warlands Farm site. Read more

  • Walk for Acceptance 2024

    Join us as our annual Walk for Acceptance returns again on Friday 30th August at Herrington Country Park, Sunderland. Read more

  • Charity launches campaign for 1,000 autistic employment opportunities

    MPs and big businesses are backing the North East Autism Society campaign - launched on World Autism Acceptance Day - to create new employment opportunities for autistic people. Read more

  • NHS waiting lists for autism diagnosis hit record highs in North East

    Waiting lists for autism diagnosis have reached record highs in the North East, new figures show. Read more

Featured campaign

  • Everyday Equality Campaign

    We are highlighting the lived experiences of autistic and neurodivergent people in five areas of everyday life: education, health, travel, employment and finance. That’s why we’re calling the campaign Everyday Equality. Read more