Christmas is a time of year when, for most people, we break out of our normal routines to enjoy traditional festivities in the company of friends and families.

Yet, for an increasing number of people, the prospect of changed surroundings and variations to normality can make the world seem a much more difficult, even frightening place.

There are more than half a million people in this country with autism, a hugely complex disability which affects social interaction and communication in ways that, for them, will invariably mean Christmas Day is no different to any other day.

This has been Autism Awareness Year, co-facilitated by the Disabilities Trust, a leading charity which, among other services, provides care and support for children and adults with a range of autistic-spectrum disorders across the country, including our residential centre at Hollyrood, near Lindfield.

As we approach the end of 2002, the trust would like to take the opportunity to thank all the organisations and individuals who took part in a series of events and initiatives during the year, aimed at promoting a wider understanding of the real needs of people with autism.

At the Autism Awareness Year closing conference last month, a Manifesto for Change was launched to ensure momentum is sustained in 2003.

The manifesto calls, for example, for a co-ordinated and consistent response by statutory agencies in education, health and social services and for the Government to allocate extra resources for additional services and support, including better respite provision for parents and carers of those affected by autism.

The Disabilities Trust will also continue to contribute by maintaining and developing the web site set up as part of the awareness year, www. autism-awareness.org.uk

-Colin Hedley, Chief Executive, The Disabilities Trust, Burgess Hill