A PURPOSE-BUILT centre for adult sufferers from autism is to open in Milnsbridge.
Carlton Autistic Services has built Carlton House in Greenway, to provide residential and respite care 365 days a year.
Owner Mr John Lamb, who also owns four other nursing homes, said it was through working with the elderly that he came across a need for support for adult sufferers from autism.
"The number of people suffering from autism in hospital, prisons or looked after at home by family members who struggle with very limited support is terrible," he said.
"It is heartbreaking to hear how many people are living like this.
" I have also experienced the difficulties parents have in finding appropriate accommodation and education, as my wife's sister had an autistic baby.
"But even if help can be found, there is always the problem of what happens to them when they leave school," added Mr Lamb.
The centre will eventually cater for people with more challenging behaviour problems in the residential unit to people with less challenging problems who may eventually be able to live back in the community.
"For people with autism the biggest challenge is with social skills," said Mr Lamb. "So when we open we will only gradually increase the number of people living here, so it is less traumatic for the residents as they meet new people."
He said feedback from a number of social services departments had been very positive because there was very little else available. This will be the first such home in Yorkshire.
The help and support offered will be set at a level and pace to suit each individual.
