Bermuda’s autism early intervention centre has asked for public views on the needs of adults on the autism spectrum as it expands its services.

Tomorrow’s Voices launched a pre-pilot programme in January to include clients over the age of 21 after it identified a gap in services for adults diagnosed with autism and other developmental disabilities.

The group worked with two adults over the period.

The charity launched a pilot programme in September that will run for a year and support five adults clients.

The fully-fledged programme is scheduled to begin in the latter part of next year and will include up to ten adult clients.

The charity has invited members of the public to fill out a survey to help it as it moves the programme forward.

Thea Furbert, the charity’s co-founder and board chairwoman, said: “Once a child with autism or other developmental disabilities becomes an adult, their medical condition does not disappear, and as such, support is needed over the life span of an individual.

“We are pleased to be able to provide these services to our adult population and fill a gap that has previously left few options for parents.”

The continuation of services allows for adults with autism, cognitive, behavioural and developmental disabilities to seamlessly work on skills that will support them through their life.

The aim is to ensure that they can be successful, well-functioning contributing members of society who can be employed and live semi-independently or independently.

A spokeswoman for Tomorrow’s Voices added: “The programme will also continue to dedicate time to one-on-one instruction similar to that found as part of Tomorrow’s Voices early intervention services.

“The clinical team at Tomorrow’s Voices is also looking to quantify the needs of adults with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities in Bermuda and invites adults with autism and developmental disabilities as well as parents, guardians and care givers to participate in a brief survey as well as indicate their interest in participating in the pilot programme.”

The programme brochure and link to the survey can be found at www.tomorrowsvoices.bm