Aspire
Adult Support Groups
About the groups
We run support groups for adults with autism in central Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell. The groups take place on one evening per month at 6pm until 8.30pm. The evenings include a visit to the local pub for a meal and a drink, which isn’t essential, but is always enjoyed by attendants. The groups offer a chance for the individuals to discuss topics including: •• Health •• Safety •• Finance •• Autism related topics •• General support Attendees also take part in social skill development and team-building activities. These help to develope their confidence and independence within the community. All groups follow a set of rules which include respecting one another, keeping things confidential and not judging other people. There are 12 places in each group, with two co-ordinators supervising.
What are the benefits?
•• Adults with autism can come together and share their concerns and challenges, offering support to each other. •• The groups provide a safe environment in which individuals are free to be themselves. •• The environment helps people with autism to develop their social skills and encourages their integration into the community. This can build their confidence and self esteem. •• Individuals will have the opportunity to learn coping strategies for the •• day-to-day experience of living with autism. •• The groups provide the opportunioty for individuals to work toward personal goals and progress towards a greater level of independence within the community. •• The groups also offer information on other services provided by Autism West Midlands.
Who can attend the groups?
The groups are available for anyone who meets the following criteria: •• Over 18 years of age. •• A diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome or High Functioning Autism. •• Living in Birmingham, Solihull or Sandwell. •• Wanting to meeting others with autism and talk about the condition.
How can I join a group?
There are three ways to join a group: 1. Complete an online application form at www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk. You can ask a family member, a friend or a member of the Aspire team to help you. 2. Email aspire@autismwestmidlands.org.uk and type ‘Support Groups Application’ in the subject box. 3. Phone us on 0121 450 7582 and ask to chat to one of the Aspire team. After you have submitted your application, you will have an opprtunity to meet a member of the Aspire team to discuss your application and the availability of spaces at the groups. You will then be invited to a taster session. This means that you can come and try the group before joining. If you like the group, you can join. If you don’t like the group, you don’t need to come again.
More information
•• The support groups are free to attend. You are responsible for paying for your food and drink when the group goes to eat. •• You must be able to arrange your own travel to and from the group. •• We will regularly talk to you about your membership of the group. We like to know if you are enjoying it and if it is helping you. •• If you live in Birmingham you can attend the groups for up to two years; for Solihull and Sandwell you can attend indefinitely. •• You are free to stop your group membership at any time if you feel you no longer wish to attend.
About Autism West Midlands
There are more than half a million people in the UK living with autism, an invisible, misunderstood and lonely disability. 60,000 live in the West Midlands. We are the leading charity in the West Midlands for people affected by autism. We exist to enable all people with autism and those who love and care for them to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities, providing direct support to people affected by autism.
Contact us Address: Aspire Autism West Midlands Regent Court George Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 1NU Email: aspire@autismwestmidlands.org.uk Telephone: 0121 450 7582 Information Helpline: 0303 030 0111 Website: www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk
Find us on Facebook: Search “Autism West Midlands�
Follow us on Twitter: @autismwestmids Our vision is a world where all people on the autism spectrum have the specialist care and support they need to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. Registered Charity Number: 517077 Registered Company Number: 1953344 (England and Wales)