Update on Autism Family Support Oxfordshire (AFSO)

We are very saddened to share the news about the planned closure of Autism Family Support Oxfordshire (AFSO), as set out in their statement, which we have shared below.

We know that this news will be worrying and upsetting for many families. AFSO has been a constant and trusted source of support for autistic children, young people and their families across Oxfordshire for many years, and for some families it has been a lifeline.

As the Oxfordshire Parent Carers Forum, our immediate focus in response to this news is on ensuring that families’ voices are heard, and that the potential loss of such an important service is met with careful, meaningful discussion about what happens next.

Families have relied on AFSO not only for advice and understanding, but also for youth clubs and holiday activities that are not easily accessible elsewhere. These opportunities matter deeply, particularly for children and young people who find other settings difficult to access.

We are particularly concerned about the wider context in which this is happening. Following the closure of Autism Oxford last year, the potential loss of AFSO represents a further and significant reduction in trusted, specialist support for families in Oxfordshire. We know that for many families this will add to feelings of uncertainty, isolation and pressure.

AFSO has confirmed that Easter holiday activities will not run this year, even if the charity does not close. If closure does go ahead, there is also a real risk that summer holiday provision will be lost. For many families, the loss of this provision will be deeply felt and difficult to manage.

We are raising this with Oxfordshire County Council and partners within the Local Area Partnership, and are seeking clarity on the impact on families, what mitigations are being considered, and how families will be supported through this period of change.

We also want to acknowledge how difficult this situation is for AFSO’s staff and trustees, and the care they are showing in how this is being handled.

If families would like to share their experiences, concerns or feedback in response to this news, please do so by emailing feedback@oxpcf.org.uk or via our feedback form: https://bit.ly/OXPCF. Hearing directly from families will help us raise these issues and advocate on your behalf.

We will be following closely what happens next and will share further updates with families as we receive them.

AFSO’s full statement is shared below.

Official Announcement - Planned closure of AFSO.pdf

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