Spring North leads the Family Autism Support (FAS) service across East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen, collaborating with experienced community-based providers. Commissioned by the NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), this service offers early, practical, and emotional support for families living with autism. Our approach is informed by evidence, grounded in local need and designed to reduce health inequalities through early intervention and accessible support.
We support children and young people aged 4 to 19 who are autistic or undergoing diagnosis, as well as parents and carers who want advice, training, or someone to talk to, siblings, and other family members who might also be affected. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to access most of our support.
We provide a joined-up offer of early help, all shaped by local need and delivered in partnership that includes:
Social sessions for young people
We support inclusive, autism-friendly activities that allow children and young people to meet others, try new experiences, and build confidence. These sessions help reduce isolation and promote emotional well-being in a relaxed, understanding environment.
Training for parents and carers
Our Cygnet programme runs throughout the year, offering six weekly sessions that explore autism, its sensory needs, communication, and behaviour management to support children at home and in school. It’s a space to learn, reflect, and connect with others experiencing similar situations.
One-to-one and practical support
Providing direct support assists families in navigating diagnoses, school transitions, and everyday challenges. Whether it’s a chat, a strategy session, or help finding the correct information, we’re here to listen and guide.
Wellbeing support for children and teens
We recognise the value of emotional health sessions, which aid young people in understanding their feelings, managing anxiety, and building self-esteem. We also conduct group workshops and peer sessions and provide access to role models with lived experience.
Support for siblings
Siblings often need space as well. Our programme offers sessions every few months. Where they can share their thoughts, meet others, and feel seen and supported.
Spring North coordinates and delivers the FAS service, collaborating closely with local partners including CANW and other trusted organisations. Together, we ensure that families can access support when they need it, in ways that suit them.We also collaborate with services such as ELCAS, paediatric teams, and GPs to ensure that no one falls through the gaps.
The Blackburn with Darwen Cancer Champions project is a three-year initiative designed to transform how South Asian communities in the borough engage with cancer awareness, diagnosis, and care.
We are proud to support Empowerment, a charity with multiple health projects across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, supported by an employed team of individuals with lived experience of multiple disadvantage
Through the CMHT Grant Fund, we are proud to support Church on the Street, a Christian organisation and registered Charity designed to support the most vulnerable members of the community.
