(UK) Portsmouth: Autism hub offers 'safe, welcoming, non-judgmental environment" as demand grows

Nov 3, 2026, Portsmouth News:‘Safe, welcoming and non-judgemental’ autism hub sees demand soar

Portsmouth’s autism hub has been praised as a “safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment” as demand grows and plans emerge to expand.

Room One, which is NHS-funded and delivered through the Portsmouth City Council’s adult social care service, provides peer monitoring and support, advice, guidance and signposting for autistic and neurodivergent adults aged 18 and over.

Its main achievements over the past year include a 66 per cent increase in one-to-one sessions, a 75 per cent increase in group attendance and 156 new referrals.

In a recent meeting Andy Biddle, the council’s director of adult social services, said there had been “significant interest” in the Room One model from other councils, including Brighton and Hove City Council and a council in the north of England, which was “particularly impressed”.

He said the organisation had developed strong outreach, with appearances at Portsmouth Pride and the Feel Good Fest, as well as engagement with medical, social and mental health practitioners.

Funding has been secured for two operational posts until March 2028.

Mr Biddle said he sees “all the positive feedback” about adult social care services in his role, adding that “Room One wins hands down” and is praised as a “safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment”.

He said that, as demand continues to grow, the council is looking to recruit more volunteers and expand the service to the north of the city. . . .