Tracing the history of autism understanding in Berkshire

Autism Berkshire is looking for stories of people’s lives with autism in recent times and the past as part of a project launched last year to mark the 25th anniversary of the charity, which was founded as the Berkshire Autistic Society. The aim is to create a written and spoken record of the history and development of autism understanding in the county since Victorian times.

As well as forming an archive, the material gathered will also be used to create a touring exhibition for display at venues across the county which will highlight a number of individual stories and how understanding of autism has changed over the years. We want to hear individuals’ own stories and those of family members, relatives and friends. These could include experiences of life in the community or in medical facilities. Initial research suggests that people with autism spectrum conditions may in the past have been sent to the former Fair Mile Hospital, near Cholsey, which was founded in 1870 as the County Lunatic Asylum for Berkshire, and closed in 2003. The project is also looking to gather stories from older special schools such as The Avenue, in Reading, which was founded more than 100 years ago. As part of the research process, two open forum meetings will be held in Reading.

The first forum will focus on older people’s experiences and will involve facilitated story-telling, gathering stories and memories of living with autism. It will take place at RISC (Reading International Solidarity Centre), in London Street, on Tuesday, April 19, from 10am to 1pm.

People around the county who want to take part by sharing their or their family’s stories can also send information to Autism Berkshire’s office in Reading, or ask for a researcher to visit them, using the contact details above. Autism Berkshire trustee Rachel Cotton said: “We think this is a really exciting project to record the lives of ordinary people with extraordinary experiences. Please do get in touch.” The project is funded with a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Anyone who would like more information about the project, or wants to attend the forum, should email ssnow@autismberkshire.org.uk or call 01189 594 594.