Introducing Our New Foundation Programme

We’re excited to share the launch of our brand-new Foundation Programme for autism assistance dogs. This unique pathway allows families to welcome a puppy into their home and begin the journey together, with tailored training and family support from day one.

Please note: This programme is not for training dogs or puppies you already own. Autism Dogs Charity will carefully source and deliver a puppy, specially chosen for their temperament and suitability as an autism assistance dog. This gives families the best possible start towards building a strong, lasting partnership.

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Key benefits:

• Puppy delivered within 6 weeks of enrolment (though it may take longer depending on procurement times)
• Training and assessment at your own pace, from home
• 1 to 1 trainer support in your area
• Access to psychotherapy and behavioural support for the whole family
• A dedicated Programme Development Manager to guide you

‍Programme Costs

Payment is made in two parts:

• ‍£6,000 non-refundable deposit
  Due when you sign your contract
• ‍£10,990 remaining balance
  Due when your puppy is delivered

Early payment discount

Families who pay the full programme fee within one calendar month of paying the deposit receive a 7% discount.

This reduces the total cost to: £15,800.70

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Led by Lived Experience

Autism Dogs Charity is proudly run by autistic people, for autistic people, ensuring that lived experience is at the heart of every programme we deliver.

• A full member of Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK) and Assistance Dogs International (ADI) recognised for meeting global benchmarks in training, welfare, and client support.
• NAS Accredited - meeting the high standards set by the National Autistic Society.
• Over 100 assistance dogs placed through our residential and foundation programmes, tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
• Multi-disciplinary support model, combining professional dog training with psychotherapeutic and aftercare services.
• Trusted partnerships with schools, healthcare professionals, and local authorities to ensure joined-up care and long-term success for every partnership.
• Inclusive community spaces, including our growing community groups and family networks, that offer peer support, shared learning, and ongoing encouragement.

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Application Timescales

• Prepare Your Application
  To help you get ready, we’ve created a 🔗 downloadable preview of the application form. You can use it to prepare your answers before filling in the online form.
• Complete the Online Application
  Fill in all required fields in details to help us assess your suitability for the programme.
• Interview Stage
  Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a video interview with our team.
• Final Decision
  Successful applicants will be notified after the interview stage.

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📍 Current application areas

We are currently accepting new applications from families based in:

• South West England, including Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire, Somerset and the Cotswolds

Spaces are limited and offered based on the availability of our trainers and welfare team in each area.

We may also be able to consider applications from families in the following areas, although spaces are not currently guaranteed:

• London area, including parts of Berkshire and Kent
• The North of England, including Cheshire and Manchester
• East of England, including Lincolnshire

This helps us ensure families receive the right level of in-person support throughout the programme.

‍Ready to take the next step? Apply now to join our Autism Assistance Dog Programme.