A service that supports people with autism is glad to go back to normal after the Covid-19 lockdown.

Following a reduced service due to coronavirus, Autism Initiatives is looking to open its day services and social groups in the coming weeks.

It’s residential and supported living services continued throughout the crisis while face-to-face family contact was disallowed from March to prevent the possibility of spreading the virus.

When the easement of lockdown for social care was announced on June 25, it was ’welcome news indeed’ said head of service, Paul Ormond-Smith.

’The smile on the faces of the service users and the family members was a picture to behold,’ he said.

’The lockdown has proved very challenging for us all, but never more so than for the people who are vulnerable through age, underlying health conditions or lack of awareness of the dangers.’

He said they were grateful to the Department of Health and Social Care for their partnership, help and guidance throughout the crisis.

He also thanked his team who voluntarily worked long days and double shifts since March. ’They deserve much praise for their tireless dedication and commitment,’ he said.

’Whilst this period was not without its challenges, we were very fortunate not to have any positive cases and in addition to the hygiene and infection control measures we put in place.’

Caroline Dougherty, who has autism, dedicated a poem about missing socialising with others over the lockdown period called ’When the lockdown is over’.

She is looking to join a poetry group in the Douglas area. If there are any such groups, contact Autism Initiatives on 814801.