Mum-of-two starts new Ollerton-based Oasis Hub for individuals with ADHD, autism and other disabilities — its first session is on Saturday (January 25)
A support hub for individuals with ADHD, autism and other disabilities is to open its doors to the public for the first time on Saturday.
Caring mum Sharon Weston, who was the driving force behind the new Oasis Hub, said her 11-year-old son Cody inspired her to launch the programme.
The idea came when Cody, who was diagnosed with autism, came home from school and asked his mum why there weren't other children like him.
From there, Sharon got in touch with Liz Phillips, of the LifeSpring Centre in Ollerton and, after numerous conversations, the hub was launched.
"It wasn't an easy process," said Sharon.
"People got scared when I mentioned the word autism, so it was really difficult to get to where we are now.
"But, on the whole, the support was great. There has been loads of really nice comments and a lot of support from councillors and doctors."
Sharon, 41, also has a 15-year-old daughter, Chloe.
She said the hub was needed to help struggling individuals, of all ages.
"There wasn't anything in our end (Boughton) that we knew of for Cody to meet his friends that are like him at," she said.
"I had to take it upon myself to set it up.
"We just wanted to give the best we could possibly give and that is why it is for all ages and not just for people with autism.
"It is a place where you can have new experiences."
The hub is self-funded and is looking for more money.
Sessions take place on the last Saturday of every month from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the LifeSpring Centre, Sherwood Drive, Ollerton.
The first session takes place on Saturday (January 25).
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