About Us

ELAS is a social group for adults aged 18 and over with Asperger Syndrome living in Edinburgh and the Lothians though people from outside the area are welcome to attend too. It adopted its constitution on 12 May 2003. It has an elected administrator and treasurer. Membership is free. ELAS holds a monthly meeting at Number 6 which is led by the administrator. A facilitator from Number 6 also attends.

The aims of the meeting are:

to provide an opportunity for people with AS to accept, value and support one another

to provide a space to exchange ideas and interests

to provide information about AS and relevant local events

to invite visiting speakers to talk about relevant issues

to link people with

• the NHS Adults Autism Co-ordinator for the Lothians
• a professional at Moving IntoWork with a view to exploring study or work opportunities
• a befriender for those who would like additional friendship
• a counsellor for those who would like to discuss personal issues.

Other aims:

to keep informed of news in the National Autistic Society and participate in appropriate events

to provide input to government policy documents

to maintain contact with appropriate organisations and professionals.

ELAS hopes to share ideas and coping strategies in order to promote self help. It tries to keep in touch with those who cannot attend meetings. It keeps in contact with other autism organisations locally and nationally.

Contact: For more information e-mail Mark Keenan at keeno.1@blueyonder.co.uk