Sheffield autism charity celebrates 10th birthday

A charity which champions autistic children and their families is celebrating a decade of support.

Sparkle Sheffield was founded by single mum Liesje Dusauzay in 2014, after she realised she had no idea where to get support and advice after her son received an autism diagnosis.

The charity will celebrate its birthday with a parade through Sheffield later followed by a party for members.

Ms Dusauzay said the group would not have survived without the army of volunteers who were their "heart and soul".

"They are the driving force behind everything we do," she said.

"We are a community united by our experiences, determined to make a difference."

The charity's first parent group meeting took place on 2 September 2014, with just three parents, one of whom remains a trustee today.

Since then, the charity transformed a box at Sheffield Arena into a sensory room and also helped lead the way in introducing autism-friendly shopping environments.

The charity received The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2022.

The charity also has ambitious plans for the future, including expanding their service to set up a similar support group in Birmingham.

In October, the charity is also hoping to launch pop-up hubs across Sheffield which offer a range of activities and support.

Ms Dusauzay admitted that she does not have time to reflect on the last 10 years but instead deals in the "here and now"

"I don't think about it. We just do.

"We think of an idea and just do it and don't always think about the consequences," she added.

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