Autism Initiatives

General information

Autism Initiatives was founded in 1971 by Pat Minshull – a proud parent of a child with autism and an advocate for increased awareness, more understanding and better Autism-specific services within the area of Mersyside and beyond.

Pat’s primary concern was in relation to her son Peter’s education and with a group of supporters she successfully raised the funds needed to purchase a property in Southport, where she founded Peterhouse School in 1973. Over time, Pat’s vision developed as her son’s needs changed with age. As Peter moved through the school and on towards adulthood, a need for adult services for people with autism became evident.
After another highly successful fundraising campaign, Pat and her supporters were able to purchase premises in Crosby, Merseyside and the Petersfield Autistic Community was established in 1986. This community soon became home to Peter and a number of other young adults with Autism.

To this day, Peter continues to be supported by Autism Initiatives and lives happily and fully supported not too far from his original family home.

Sadly, Pat Minshull is no longer with us but her vision and passion inspires Autism Initiatives each day. We remain a parent-led charity and deliver direct services to over 3000 individuals diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Condition.