FREE autism advice workshops for parents and carers in the Bracknell Forest area start later this month.

Autism Berkshire will run the six free pre-assessment workshops for parents and carers of those with children aged five and older on the Berkshire CAMHS waiting list.

The first will take place on May 15, in Bracknell Open Learning Centre, Rectory Lane at 9:30am-12:30pm.

This session will include a basic look at autism and sensory issues, strategies to help comminication and address sensory and behavioural issues, information on what happens in the assessment, and signposting for support if and when a diagnosis of autism is made.

Jane Stanford-Beale, Autism Berkshire's chief executive officer, said: "The Autism Seminars for Families proved hugely popular when we ran them last year and earlier this year in Bracknell and Windsor."

"We expect demand will be high again, so I would advise parents to register straight away, so they don't miss out" she added.

In June and July this year, there will be autism seminars for families in Bracknell, run by The National Autistic Society.

These will take place as half-day workshops, again at Bracknell Open Learning Centre.

Each one focuses on a different aspect, and all run from 9:30am-2:30pm.

Dates are: Understanding Autism (June 7), Managing Anger (June 21) and Sensory Needs (July 12).

Additional pre-assssment workshops will be held on July 18, Septmper 19 and November 13 this year, as well as January 15 and March 12 next year.

For further information, contact 01189 594 594, or visit www.autismberkshire.org.uk