In 1997, in response to a growing need for support for parents of children with autism, Anna Kennedy co-founded the registered charity, Hillingdon Autistic Care and Support (HACS). HACS continues to support all those affected by an autistic spectrum condition or Asperger syndrome, across all London boroughs.

When Anna originally discovered that her sons Patrick and Angelo were diagnosed with Asperger syndrome and autism respectively, she was truly devastated. Like so many parents, Anna, having been turned away by no fewer than 26 special needs schools when searching for appropriate educational facilities for her boys, was down – but not out. Anna was determined to prove that for children like her sons, the challenges of growing up with autism did not have to end in defeat. Through sheer guts and determination, she turned her situation into a victory for parent power, by transforming a disused local school into Hillingdon Manor School: a centre of excellence for care and support for those with autism.  

West London Community College

West London Community College is an Independent Living, Training and life Skills provision for adults on the autistic spectrum condition.

The Old Vicarage Residence

The Old Vicarage is a specialist eight bedroom home exclusively for adults diagnosed with an autistic spectrum condition or Asperger syndrome. The home provide and develop a needs led, person-centred care package for individuals.

West London Specialist Support Services

An independent outreach and social support provision specialising in supporting individuals with complex needs. Services are available 24 hours and 365 days a year.

Hillingdon Manor School

An independent specialist school for children with an autistic spectrum condition (ASD) or Asperger syndrome. Aged between 3.5 years and 19 years of age. Split into two sites it offers a unique provision of education and support to pupils within a wide spectrum of needs and abilities.

By creating employment opportunities, organising play schemes and structured activity groups, offering informational events, training and conferences, and raising awareness of autism through education and community involvement, the Directors aim to improve the understanding of autism, and the opportunities and provision for those with an autistic spectrum condition.