Official Opening
The new venue for the ADRC has been officially opened in Southampton.
Specialists, researchers, doctors and special guests gathered to open the Centre at it's new premises in Rose Road on 28th July, as part of the 'Promoting Independent Living in the Community' event involving all of the support organisations based at the Rose Road complex.
The Centre is directed by Dr Tony Brown, a consultant clinical psychologist from the University of Southampton.
Dr Brown comments: “We are extremely grateful to Roger Brooke for his generous donation, which has enabled us to establish this much-needed centre.”
“The Centre will provide data and information to help identify the specific characteristics of each individual with the syndrome. It will identify an individual’s strengths as well as any deficits, providing a structure for them that will maximise their strengths, promote their skills and help them with social interaction. Ultimately, the ADRC hopes to help individuals ensure they have the right conditions whether at home, work or university, to enable them to live more engaged, safe, and fulfilling lives.”
Asperger’s syndrome is a neuro-genetic disorder on the autism spectrum: the word ‘spectrum’ is used because, while all people with autism share three main areas of difficulty, their condition will affect them in very different ways. It is a lifelong developmental disorder with no known cure. A person is born with it; it is not caused by their upbringing, and neither is it a learning disability, nor a mental illness.
While some people already cope well living with this condition, many do not. Normal life events such as the breakdown of a relationship or loss of a job can have catastrophic results. This can result in severe mental health issues or even suicide.
The service provided by the clinical team at the ADRC aims to greatly improve the quality of life and the productivity of individuals with Asperger’s syndrome. It will help individuals, their families, friends, partners, carers, professionals and colleagues to understand and manage their condition.
The Centre, created by the University of Southampton, is set up as a non-profit making company.
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Unveiling the Plaque
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Opening of the ADRC
