Autism Family Support is now closed 

Autism Family Support Oxfordshire (AFSO) closed on 31 March 2026 and has now been formally dissolved. All services, activities and programmes previously delivered by AFSO have ended. The decision to close AFSO has not been taken lightly and followed a period of financial challenges and extensive efforts to secure the charity’s future.

 

Youth Groups

 

AFSO’s youth groups, for children and adults who are autistic and do not have a Learning Disability, will continue under new management:

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• Youth groups for children aged 8 to 17 are now delivered by AND Oxfordshire, an enterprise formed by four of AFSO’s youth group staff. ​

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• The youth group for adults is now delivered by Gita Lobo. Gita was AFSO’s Chief Executive Officer and has set up a social enterprise to manage this youth group, and offer mentoring, training and consultancy. 

 

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We are grateful to the teams who have stepped forward to ensure the continuity of these highly regarded and sought-after youth groups.

 

 

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Holiday Activities

 

Oxfordshire County Council is working with The Parasol Project to deliver Community Short Breaks for autistic children and young people. To express your interest, please email Parasol at info@parasolproject.org

 

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Alternative Support and Services

 

If you are looking for local support, you may find the following helpful:

• Oxfordshire County Council Short Breaks https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/children-and-families/information-parents/breaks-disabled-children

• Oxfordshire Family Information Service https://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk/kb5/oxfordshire/directory/home.page

 

 

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Farewell and thank you

 

We know how valued AFSO has been to autistic children, young people and families across Oxfordshire. To everyone who has been part of our 48‑year journey - families, staff, volunteers, supporters, funders and partners - thank you. Your trust, kindness and commitment created a community we were proud to serve.

 

Thank you for being part of AFSO’s history, and for the many years of connection, understanding and shared purpose.

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With best wishes

 

From us all at AFSO