FAQs

Much has changed since our Founders started the charity over 50 years ago. We have grown enormously, and we know that there is still much to do. The Autism sector has also changed dramatically in the last few years, and we need to move with the times.

We invested in the rebranding process to get the professional help and support we needed and to make sure that we got it right. The rebrand will deliver significant benefits not least of which is to support our aspirations for the next 5 years.

Trustees voted for the new name, Autism Unlimited, which we believe reflects the way in which we work together with those we support to create unlimited possibilities for a fulfilling life. A name that represents what we have created so far and, what we will continue to build on, for autistic people and their families.

We wanted a new name and look for our charity that everyone – our students and their families would be proud of. A name that communicates what we work hard to achieve.

No, our focus remains the same – to stand side by side with those who we support so that they have the opportunity to reach their goals – whatever they might be. We will continue with our ambitious plans to grow our range of education, support, and advice for our neuro-diverse community. Our new name and logo do not change what we do or the reason we exist as a charity – to appreciate the difference of autism.

We plan to use the launch of our new brand to develop a more prominent public profile both locally and nationally. This, in turn, will lead to greater public awareness of our charity and more opportunities for external support and fundraising.

Absolutely, as a neuro diverse charity we wanted the input of our community, to get their opinions and to guide us as to how our new branding would be received by the people we support. We set up a core group of people to help with this which included members of our team, autistic people, parents, trustees, and other supporters.

Their input was invaluable, and we could not have got to where we are now without them.

We really wanted to find colours that the neuro diverse community found acceptable. We wanted a colour palette that was not too vibrant or over stimulating but still gave the feel of a forward-thinking charity that got results. We have selected colours that are known for giving the impression of trust, security, peace, and tranquillity.

For the launch we will have new signage at the Parley Lane site, a brand-new website and other material branded in our new style. It is a continuous evolution and as we grow so will our portfolio of resources.

Yes, the charity will be known as Autism Unlimited, and all our services will be under the same name. Each will have its own title such as Portfield School or Adult Support, but they will be part of Autism Unlimited.

As with all our major decisions, we spoke to the people that matter – our neuro diverse community. We ran an online poll with them to find out what expression they preferred and what they felt was the most appropriate for us to use. The vote was in favour of “autistic people” rather than “people with autism” and so we have included this in our new brand guidelines.

You do not need to do anything; our bank details remain the same and your payment will be unaltered.

No, our details remain the same – registered in England & Wales under charity number 1000792 with the address of Charity Hub, Portfield School, Parley Lane, Christchurch BH23 6BP.