Community directory

PHEAT (Parents of Hertfordshire for Early Autism intervention Today!)

PHEAT, based in Hertfordshire, is a parent-run support group. It was set up as a charity in 1999 by a few parents, and membership has now increased to over 50 families.

As a parent group of autistic children receiving ABA/Lovaas intensive home therapy, the aim is to:
* offer help, advice and support to families running or starting an ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) programme.
* raise awareness of autism and ABA therapy.
* influence opinion in health, education and government departments.
* offer advice on dietary and bio-medical intervention.

The ultimate aim is to help parents make informed choices. Members receive advice on starting an ABA programme from an experienced family and more information on current costs, funding status, liaison with CSF, tribunal support, therapist recruitment and research.

Monthly support meetings to exchange news, discuss problems and chat are held in Hertfordshire (various venues), with leading speakers once a quarter. PHEAT has a lending library of ABA materials. There is an internet message board (e-group) for members.

Membership costs £10 per year, with reduced entrance fee to talks for members. New members are very welcome.

PHEAT liaises with the national charity, PEACH (Parents for Early Autism intervention in Children) and the local parent support group HARC (Hertfordshire Autistic Resource Centre).

Date of AGM: January.

Registered charity number 1082372