Residents are invited to share their ideas with Newham Council to help it improve services and support for people with autism.

Newham, along with all local authorities, must develop an action plan that will raise awareness of the condition and shape future services for people with autism and their families and carers.

It has set up a steering group that includes healthcare professionals and providers, the Metropolitan Police Service and representatives of the Newham branch of the National Autistic Society, to help make existing service provision work better.

The group are holding a consultation event from 10.30am to 3pm on Monday January 28 at St Mark’s Centre in Tollgate Road, Beckton, to promote services and gather feedback.

Councillor Clive Furness, Newham’s executive member for health, said: “It is important to ensure that a good level of advice and support is available to people with autism and their family and carers.

“This event is about developing an action plan that will shape Newham’s autism service. We want residents to share their views and ideas with us. It is important that we listen to what people want so we can continue to develop and improve this essential service.”

A representative from the National Autistic Society will be at the event, which will include workshops and a question and answer session.

For more information and to confirm your attendance contact selma.ghouse@newham.gov.uk or call 020 3373 8563.