Penrith’s mayor and deputy mayor have donated their year’s allowances to Cumbrian CIC Team Autism.
Mayor Doug Lawson and deputy mayor Danny Smith have donated the entirety of their annual allowances – a total of £1,000 – to support the organisation.
Team Autism, a Penrith-based organisation, facilitate monthly lunch and supper clubs in Carlisle, Cockermouth, Maryport, Penrith and Workington for autistic adults without a learning disability.
The CIC creates a safe, non-judgemental place where autistic people can meet and be themselves, without feeling a need to mask to fit in.
The lunch clubs are co-hosted by autistic volunteers who understand how hard it can be to socialise and offer peer support.
The combined donation of £1,000 will go directly toward supporting the CIC’s programs and activities, allowing them to continue their mission of empowering autistic people and to fill the gaps in services for autistic adults without a learning disability in Penrith.
Mayor Doug said: “It’s a real pleasure to be able to support the neurodivergent community in Penrith.
“Team Autism provide a valuable service and are currently looking for somewhere to operate a community hub – if anyone knows of a suitable location please get in touch with Susan at: susan@teamautism.co.uk.”
Deputy mayor Danny added: “I am thrilled to have presented this donation in person to Team Autism who do a lot of great work in the Penrith area with social support and understanding of the autistic community.”
Susan Mackenzie, founder and director of Team Autism said: “On behalf of Team Autism we say a huge thank you to councillors Doug Lawson and Danny Smith!
“This is so generous and will help to keep the lunch club going in Penrith.”
More information on Team Autism can be found by clicking here.
