Dorset HealthCare has expanded its Community Adult Asperger Service to benefit people in West Dorset who have Asperger’s Syndrome or autism.

The expansion will mean that individuals living in West Dorset will now be able to take advantage of the diagnostic and consultation service much closer to their homes.

Rebecca Jones, manager of the Community Adult Asperger Service, said: “The service is delighted to now be in a position to build on its success within East Dorset to provide an equitable service across the whole county. As a team, we believe that community-based services lead to the best outcomes for our clients. We are working to develop a complete pathway of care to incorporate diagnosis, consultation, groups and therapy.

“The expansion of the service demonstrates how, as a trust, we are working hard to provide personalised and integrated care that is available for all those living in Dorset. On behalf of Dorset HealthCare, we are proud to take on this wider remit as it is a key step towards our goal of providing exemplary care across all services.”

Staff have taken up posts within the newly expanded team to cover the west of Dorset. These include a clinical psychologist and a nurse specialist, who, with two assistant psychologists, will be providing diagnostic assessments.

There is also an occupational therapist that is able to provide specialist assessment and therapy including sensory integration. As the service develops, it aims to offer a range of groups including a post diagnostic group for newly diagnosed individuals and an employment support group for those experiencing difficulty gaining or maintaining work. Individuals can access the service through referral by their GP. For more information, contact 01202 605875.