The club, launched by the Barnet branch of the National Autistic Society, will cater for young people with the condition as well as their siblings.
Deborah Packenham, the society's Barnet branch officer, said it was a much-needed club and would give teenagers with autism access to social events. "Young people with autism can have difficulty communicating with others and understanding the world around them. This can make it hard to socialise and make friends," she said. "Youth clubs like this are vital in helping young people with autism increase their confidence and reach their full potential."
The youth club will meet every Wednesday during term time and already has 19 families attending. Facilities and activities include a fitness centre, art therapy, computer suite, music studio and cafe, along with outdoor activities. It will also run football activities in the summer with the support of a qualified Football Association coach. Autism is one of a range of disorders that cause communication and emotional problems.
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