Update

When Future 50 was launched, we aimed to raise funds to address two specific areas. The first area was a study to review whether biometric technology could be used to identify rising anxiety in people with autism. I am pleased to be able to report that this study was effectively completed.

The second area was to replace Raby Hall with an autism-specific, three-storey Assessment & Diagnostic Centre, offering accommodation to 12 individuals. Shortly after developing this plan, it became apparent that the Care Quality Commission (CQC) was looking to change its regulations. Eventually, CQC guidance stipulated that facilities should offer accommodation to no more than 9 individuals and that this should not be “campus-like”. Effectively, this means our original proposal will no longer receive CQC approval and could not proceed.

Having taken legal advice, the Future 50 Appeal has now been paused. Autism Together has written to all who donated to the appeal, to ask if they are happy for their donations to be allocated to other projects, which will benefit the people we support. If you have not received a letter regarding your Future 50 donation please contact us 0151 334 7510