BARRY NELSON takes a look inside a new centre for adults severely affected by autism.

APPROACHING Newbus Grange down a long tree-lined drive, it is easy to imagine you are approaching a stately home. With its fairy-tale battlements and pointed Gothic windows, the illusion is easy to sustain.

But appearances can be deceptive. The former 17th century manor house is now one of the UK's handful of assessment and treatment centres for adults with autism.

Opened in April, the 19-bed, privately-own unit, housed in what was until recently a hotel, aims to be a safe and tranquil haven for the residents.

Manager John Leitch, who has worked his way up from a care worker to being in charge of a complete treatment unit, is clearly delighted at the facilities provided by the centre, owned by Castlebeck Care. "This place was purchased because of all the space we have. Being able to walk in the open air and to enjoy the gardens is very important to our residents," says John.

Places for adults with autism are so difficult to find in the UK that 13 of the 19 places are already taken. The rest are expected to be occupied by the end of the year. "We get referrals from social services and the NHS from as far afield as Dorset, although we have also got a couple of residents who are local," the manager adds.

As a centre for people with moderate to severe autism, including some residents who are capable of 'challenging behaviour', the aim is to provide as much structured treatment as possible. In some cases it is possible to transfer residents to treatment centres with an intermediate grading. "It will take about 18 months for new people to settle in, but it is possible to make progress with some people," says John. However, the reality for most residents is that Newbus Grange is likely to be their permanent home for the forseeable future. Autism is a little understood developmental condition which often leaves people in a world of their own. While some residents can communicate verbally with staff, others are so severely affected that they can only communicate through a system involving symbols on cards.

People with autism tend to like sameness and predictability. Another common symptom of autism is repetitive, ritualistic behaviour.

One of the most striking aspects of the new centre is the sensory garden, designed by Chelsea Flower Show-winner Paul Cooper. The gardens consist of four galleries dedicated to the senses of touch, sight, hearing and smell.

Local residents have been relaxed about the creation of a new centre for people with severe learning disabilities on their doorstep.

John says the centre has a "no locked doors" policy and anyone who is deemed to be a potential risk is not admitted.