Penrith-based autism charity Triple A (All About Autism) has said farewell to chief executive officer Helen Storey.
Helen is standing down from the role after setting up and running the charity for over five years.
Helen recognised that a disproportionate number of adults with autism were going through the criminal justice system and she developed a programme of support for individuals, using highly trained practitioners to act as specialist mentors, advocates and befrienders.
She recognised that there were other vulnerable individuals and she initiated the Positive Pals programme to enable social integration and reduce social isolation.
The charity also supports younger people with autism through the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
Integral to the charity is awareness training which has received national acclaim. Courses have been delivered to thousands of health care professionals, police officers, the judicial system and employers across the county, enabling better understanding of autism.
The chairman of trustees for Triple A, Karen Quinn, said: “Against the odds, Helen has built a charity that offers real hope and meaningful support to those so often marginalised.”
Helen said: “It has been a heartbreaking decision to step away from Triple A, but I know the charity is in capable hands and in prime position to move on to the next stage.
“I am grateful to everyone who has been involved with Triple A along the way — all of whom have contributed to Triple A’s success.”
Helen continues to support vulnerable people working with The Well Communities, a peer-led organisation that enables people to break free from crime and addiction, developing services across Cumbria.
