Autism’s Got Talent performers leave audience in tears

MEMBERS of the public which included #UKCharityWeek founder Lee Rayment and a host of special guests were treated to a series of emotionally charged performances by people on the autistic spectrum at a show in Central London at the weekend.

The performers consisted of singers, actors, musicians and dance troupes, all proudly flying the flag for autism and showed what people with autism are capable of doing.

Dozens of performers took to the stage, and audience members were left in floods of tears after being amazed at what people with autism can do. One parent in the audience said: ‘To have a platform like this when the world is telling you your kid can’t do this and can’t do that is just incredible. People with autism are amazing and assets in our society.’

#UKCharityWeek founder Lee Rayment attended the event with his family said: “I knew having covered the event remotely in previous years that we were in for a treat, but to see it firsthand and how it left the audience and my family in awe was very inspiring.

“I am convinced that the show is only going to go from strength-to-strength in future years, and we shall certainly be doing our bit to ensure that happens, well done to all involved!”

Speaking to Charity Today, Anna said: “I don’t know how but the show gets better every year. The effect it has on the performers, their families and the audience is mind-blowing. You have to watch the show to experience what I am talking about. I’m so proud that I didn’t want it to end.”

Also in attendance were Kacey Ainsworth (Eastenders’ ‘Little Mo’), Robin Windsor from Strictly Come Dancing and model Danielle Lloyd.

1 in 100 people in the UK are affected by autism in one way or another. Whether they are diagnosed with it themselves or whether a friend or a family member has the condition, autism touches the daily lives of many across the country.

The condition can be challenging to understand, and many look upon diagnosis as a stressful and upsetting time. Anna Kennedy Online is hoping to change the perception of autism to show just how talented and skilled autistic people are.

The charity, based in Uxbridge, was founded by Anna Kennedy OBE. When her two sons were diagnosed with autism Anna found it hard to get the right support for them. She knocked on the doors of dozens of schools, and her sons were turned away. After fighting so hard, she decided to take matters into her own hands and started her own school in 1999, Hillingdon Manor, which is now the largest provision of specialist education in Europe.

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