WAVERLEY Mayor Simon Inchbald joined his Guildford counterpart Nigel Manning as special guests at a public launch and information event concerning a new Centre for Lifelong Learning for adults with autism, based on Dunsfold Park.

The project is being overseen by the Jigsaw Trust, which also operates a school for children on the autism spectrum, JigsawPlus adult services, vocational activities and wellbeing services for adults aged 18 and over.

The service has been operating from temporary premises since 2012 and the charity aims to raise £561,000 to fund a dedicated building.

Kate Grant, chief executive officer and founding parent of the Jigsaw Trust, said: “Jigsaw is always responsive to need and one thing that is apparent is that there is a requirement for a building designed specifically for those clients with more complex needs and challenging behaviours.

“This is an exciting time for Jigsaw as we launch the public appeal for our new Centre for Lifelong Learning.

“The support we have already received from businesses, trusts and foundations has been incredible and we are extremely grateful to them for helping us get this far. We are now calling on the local community to get involved so that we can open our doors to clients in January.”

“JigsawPlus is one of very few services in the area that can provide opportunities that meet the needs of adults with autism, particularly for those with more challenging behaviours.

“It is the natural next-step for pupils leaving Jigsaw School when they reach the age of 19, however the service is open to any adult with autism. In total, 27 clients currently attend JigsawPlus, but the new building will accommodate up to 40.”

Construction of the new centre is well under way, with an anticipated opening date of January 2018, and more than £360,000 has already been raised towards the target.

The building will house a range of new facilities designed to develop life skills, including key teaching and learning rooms, sensory areas, client kitchens, utility areas and activity suites.

Jigsaw Trust’s fundraiser Steven Morgan added: “This is a great opportunity for the local community to get involved in helping us reach our target of £561,000 and I would encourage anybody who is keen to get involved to get in touch.

“We have various events planned including skydiving from 10,000ft to swimming The Serpentine.

“Or perhaps supporters would like to organise their own event themed to one of the rooms in the centre – money from a bake sale could go towards a new kitchen or a sponsored ‘readathon’ could help raise money for a library.”