A Dagenham service described as a "happy, safe and secure" space has been nationally recognised for the tailored support it provides for people with autism.
Welcome to Our World (WOW), based at Heathlands Day Centre on Heathway, received accreditation from the National Autistic Society after an inspection last month.
It is among 246 organisations across the country to achieve the body's accredited status, which requires a standard of excellence to be met and a framework to be followed.
Barking and Dagenham Cllr Maureen Worby said it was the result of "hard work and dedication" put into the facility, which launched in 2003.
"Not only does it demonstrate the outstanding level of support available to people with autism in Barking and Dagenham, but it shows that having a disability does mean you are not excluded," she said.
The WOW service has "clear and consistent structures and routines" to help people to feel confident and continually develop, the inspection report said.
The five staff members build "positive and trusting" relationships with the people using the facility and use best practice techniques to meet their needs.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here