More than 100 Newham residents affected by autism gathered to share their ideas about improving services in the borough.

Residents met at St Marks Centre in Beckton this month to help establish an action plan to raise awareness of autism and shape future services for people with the condition.

Newham Council, who organised the meeting, were asked by residents to help develop the action plan and a steering group which was set up by the local authority.

The group is made up of healthcare professionals and providers, the Metropolitan Police and representatives of the Newham branch of the National Autistic Society.

Newham’s executive member for health, Cllr Clive Furness, said: “By sharing their ideas with us residents can play their part in developing and improving this essential service.”

He added: “It is important to ensure that a good level of advice and support is available to people with autism and their family and carers.”

For more information about Newham’s Autism service contact, selma.ghouse@newham.gov.uk or call 020 33738563.