A “lifeline” centre for people with autism and their families is celebrating its fourth birthday this month.

Spectrum’s Pearl Centre, in Cathedral Lane, Truro, has helped around 4,000 people since it opened its doors in April 2012. It is a place for people to get information and advice on Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and associated conditions. It acts as an information and resource hub to families, individuals, carers, organisations and statutory authorities.

Gavin Pedley, the centre’s manager, said: “The Pearl Centre really has been a lifeline for many local families.

We know that people with autism and their families benefit from face-to-face support from people who have knowledge of autism and who can offer advice on how to access further sources of help and support.

“People come to the Pearl Centre enquiring about how and where a diagnosis can be obtained, help with school attendance, transition to adulthood, work opportunities, support and activity groups and accessing care and respite.

“We put people in touch with whatever is available to make their lives easier. Sometimes, just a bit of understanding and knowing that you’re not alone is all that’s needed to make a difference.”

The Pearl Centre runs several regular events, such as the Siblings Group, for brothers and sisters of children with autism and open sessions, which provide an opportunity for people to put their questions to a clinical psychologist and behavioural expert.

For more information about the work of Spectrum, visit spectrumasd.org.