THE National Autistic Society is calling on people in Ryedale affected by autism to nominate individuals and services that have made a difference to their lives for the third annual Autism Professionals Awards.

We know that ground-breaking work in the field of autism is going on across the UK and we get together once a year to recognise the individuals behind this and to celebrate their achievements.

We would like to hear about innovative organisations, committed professionals and passionate volunteers who have gone the extra mile to help local people with autism and their families. Perhaps it is a teacher who has helped a child with autism to take huge steps forward at school or a social club that has helped an adult with the condition to improve their social skills. Whatever the story, we want to hear it.

You can find out more about the awards categories and nominate a deserving individual or service by visiting autismprofessionalsawards.org.uk

Nominations for the Autism Professionals Awards close on Friday, October 31.

Carol Povey, director of the National Autistic Society’s Centre for Autism