Children playing together
Norfolk & Waveney’s Autism Charity

Support for Neurodivergent Children, Young People, and Their Families in Norfolk & Waveney

Thrive Autism provides practical, compassionate support for families right now — while working towards creating Norfolk’s first dedicated Autism Centre. From guidance and respite to inclusive community events, we’re here to make sure every young person feels understood, supported, and able to thrive.

2024
Founded
0–25
Age Range Supported
19+
Corporate Sponsors
6
Expert Trustees

Who We Are

A Charity Built from Personal Experience

Thrive Autism exists to support neurodivergent children, young people, and their families across Norfolk and Waveney. Founded in 2024, we provide practical help, understanding, and a sense of belonging for those facing long waits, limited services, and daily challenges.

We’re building a supportive community now, while working towards creating Norfolk’s first dedicated Autism Centre — a place where every child feels accepted, valued, and celebrated.

  • Autism Diagnosis Support
  • Therapy & Sensory Sessions
  • Family Breaks & Respite
  • Community Events & Resources
About Thrive
Children playingChildren readingSmiling childrenChildren playing parachute
Norfolk’s
First Dedicated Autism Centre — Coming Soon

Community

A Place to Connect and Belong

We believe support should extend beyond the individual. Thrive Autism is equally committed to the families and caregivers who give so much.

Respite & Breaks

Opportunities for short-term respite giving families the well-deserved break they need to recharge.

Community

A welcoming community to share experiences, guidance, and friendship in a safe, non-judgemental environment.

Autism Centre Vision

A supportive environment where caregivers feel heard, valued, and part of a community working towards a shared future.

Together, we aim to celebrate and nurture the unique qualities of children and young people with autism, helping them grow and thrive at every stage of life.

Our Aim
Children on grass

Events & Resources

Stay Connected. Find Support. Join Us.

From community events to practical guides, Thrive Autism is building a hub of support for families across Norfolk and Waveney. Discover upcoming events, workshops, and resources designed to help.

We’re building a supportive community now, while working towards creating Norfolk’s first dedicated Autism Centre — a place where every child feels accepted, valued, and celebrated.

Make a Difference

How You Can Help — Donate Today!

We’ve already made a strong start, but we cannot achieve our goals without your support.

🧠
Support
Make a Difference

Cover diagnostic assessments for a neurodiverse child — at a fraction of NHS wait times.

£150
could help
🌿
Rest & Relaxation
Change a Life

Provide therapy and sensory sessions and fund breaks for families who need a well-deserved break.

£75
could help
🏗️
Build Community
Create a Future

Help us build a Thrive Autism Centre for Norfolk, as well as support sessions across Norfolk & Waveney.

£25
could help

Our Team

Meet Our Trustees

Meet the team behind Thrive Autism and find out why we’re so passionate about making a difference.

Colin Lang MBE

Colin Lang MBE

Chairman

Barry (Baz) Ellis

Barry (Baz) Ellis

Trustee

Brenda Fraser Newstead

Brenda Fraser Newstead

Trustee

Jake Lewis-Smith

Jake Lewis-Smith

Trustee

Simon Francis

Simon Francis

Trustee

Hugo Stevenson

Hugo Stevenson

Trustee

Partners

Corporate Sponsors

We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who stand with Thrive Autism. Their support helps us deliver practical help, build community connections and expand opportunities for children and young people across Norfolk.

Norwich Print Solutions
Brown & Co
MT Comms
Maids Head Hotel
Mayes & Co
Arnolds Keys
Ingleton Wood
Super Wide Digital
Smash Marketing
Daniel Connal Partnership
Children at beach

Together, We Can Build Norfolk’s First Dedicated Autism Centre

Every donation, every partnership, every volunteer hour brings us closer to a place where every autistic child and young person has the opportunity to thrive.