The National Autistic Taskforce came into being thanks to a generous, open, unsolicited gift from Dame Stephanie Shirley. We are doing our best to spend it wisely and to maximum effect. We have been given a truly free hand to do what we can towards improving services for autistic people, specially those with highest support needs. We are extremely grateful for the trust and good will Dame Steve has shown us, as well as for the money. We’d also like to thanks the many people who are contributing their expertise and knowhow to support our aims.