Autum winter 2012 edition Autism

AUTISM GM NEWSLETTER www.autismgm.org.uk

Autumn/Winter edition 2012 SEN Policy Update Book Reviews x 3

Page 2 Page 3-4

NAS Information Sheets

Page 5

Asperger United magazine subscription

Page 5

NAS Recommended Links

Page 6

Research: Improving NHS care for young People with complex health conditions, Including autism

Page 6-7

Short Breaks Network website

Page 7

Create Art for Autism

Page 8

The Autism Experience Strength and Hope Project

Page 9

NAS Social media campaign to Dispel common myths about autism

Page 9

A Visit to the hairdresser

Page 10

We Exist Too: NAS Sibling Report

Page 11

Christmas 2012

Page 12

Forthcoming Events in the Region

Page 13

GM Parent Support Groups

Page 14

H

ello and welcome to the Autumn/Winter edition of Autism GM

In this edition we have an update on the plans set out in the Children and Families Bill to replace Statements with Education and Health Care Plans, and for these to be available for those with the most significant additional needs from 0 to 25yrs.

We hope that this might improve the transition process for some with autism, as it is currently a time when many people fall through the net causing undue stress for individuals and families.

We have also included a request from parents for a letter to those families who have recently received a diagnosis. What would you have liked to hear at this time? What would have been useful? And what hope and advice can you offer from further down the living with autism road? Repeatedly we are told how other parents can help in a way that no one else can as they speak from understood and shared experience. It would be great to pool some of this combined wisdom‌ Wishing everyone as peaceful as possible a festive season from all at the Family Services Development Project.

Debbie Waters and Mari Saeki Project Officers Autism GM Newsletter is produced by: The National Autistic Society Family Services Development Project Anglo House, Chapel Road Northenden, Manchester M22 4JN Tel: 0161 998 4667 Fax: 0161 945 2703 Email: mari.saeki@nas.org.uk or debbie.waters@nas.org.uk Editor: Debbie Waters Editorial Assistant: Barbara Whillans

SEN POLICY UPDATE

T

he National Autistic Society (NAS) has welcomed the publication of draft legislation on reforms to the special educational needs (SEN) system in England.

What next?

The legislation is only in draft and the changes will take quite a long time to come through.

The draft will be debated by the Education Select Committee between now and Christmas, with a Bill expected to be published in the new year. We expect the Bill to take a full year to pass through Parliament and into law. Even once this has happened it will take a while before the changes are implemented.

The draft legislation sets out provisions for statements to be replaced by Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP), which will extend statutory protections for children with SEN up to the age of 25 for those in Further Education.

We will continue to update you on the new legislation throughout this time and give you opportunities to tell us what you think of the changes.

We believe that this will help improve transition for young people with autism.

However, we are also working on the draft social care legislation to help improve transition into non-educational support.

If you have any questions or concerns about the proposed new SEN legislation, please email us: policy@nas.org.uk

In addition, the legislation will put new duties on local authorities and local health bodies to jointly commission services for children with SEN locally. We have long been calling for these duties and believe that this will help services to be more joined-up at a local level.

However, we have ongoing concerns about whether the reforms will help improve support for those children who do not have a statement or EHCP. The proposed new duty on councils to produce a 'local offer', setting out the support available locally for children with SEN, will help increase transparency for parents. More detail is needed about how parents will be able challenge the availability of services and ensure that there are services that meet their child’s needs.

Follow The NAS education blog to make sure you are up to date: http://nas-educationpdate.blogspot.co.uk/ Full details of the draft legislation can be found here: www.officialdocuments.gov.uk/document/ cm84/8438/8438.pdf

The NAS has also been campaigning to ensure that the duties around SEN apply to academy schools, as well as to other schools.

The draft legislation suggests that the Government has listened to our concerns, as the provisions will apply to all academies.

2

BOOK REVIEWS by 2 volunteer reviewers

He applies an eloquent logic to his explanations using scientific fact and anecdotal stories in which he uses metaphors to help US understand HIS understanding of certain issues and makes it seem so simple it makes you wonder how we manage to get it wrong in so many ways when we are dealing with an ASD child, or young person.

Raising Martians from Crash Landing to Leaving Home

By Joshua Muggleton ISBN: 978-1-84905-002-9

It is not all negative and Joshua leaves us with a knowledge that we can understand our children better if we just listen to then and take time to think things through. The lasting legacy from this book is hope and its challenge to us is, let's all learn to speak Martian.

T

he second I read the foreword by Tony Attwood I knew, I knew this is THE book that all parents and carers should have in their possession. After all, a child whom perceives themselves as a Martian marooned on Planet Earth needs all the help they can get.

A book for every Autism library, in home, in school, in professional’s hands.

Leslye Vaughan

Joshua is now in his twenties and did not get a diagnosis of Aspergers until he was fifteen. His book explains the way he was treated before and after his diagnosis, and the impact this had on his everyday life from school to home life.

How hard it was for him to cope with what us Neurotypicals take as everyday life ups and downs.

The Diary of Samuel Pope An e-book by Andrew Maddock ISBN: 9781476405643

This book is written in a chatty conversation style and it is almost like Joshua is in the room with you. Every revelation leads you to a question, and Joshua seems to instinctively know the question is going to raise its head and the answer is there as you are just finishing your question in your mind. His voice is the interpretation of Martian to English, and, with him now at University studying Psychology he has found his coping strategy is to observe and then interact in different ways to get the required result in any given situation.

T

he Diary of Samuel Pope is a short story which I believe is aimed at KS2 children.

However it would be suitable for older children who have no knowledge or understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The Diary of Samuel Pope is written in the first person as a school boy given the task of writing a diary for a week for homework. During the week a new boy with Autism starts in his class and Samuel Pope is given the task of looking after the new boy Luke. The diary follows Samuel’s discovery of what Autism is and covers some of the ‘typical’ traits found in a person with Autism.

He explores his mental health issues and finds the triggers for these, and the help he was denied because of ignorance or lack of understanding from peers and professionals.

He covers issues such as bullying, alienation and being 'The weird kid at school'

3

(Continued on page 4)

(Continued

from page 3)

To me it was unclear, especially in the first chapter, whether or not Samuel Pope himself was on the Autistic Spectrum or whether he was a loner who was unfortunately bullied.

Overall this short story is written for children to give them some knowledge and understanding of Autism and it does exactly that.

The story gives a brief overview of what Autism is but may give the reader the wrong assumption that everybody on the Autistic Spectrum hand flaps, has no eye contact and has temper tantrums which is not the case.

However that is my viewpoint as an adult and if a child were to write this book review then I believe their opinion would be different from mine.

Liesl Beckles A big thank you to both Leslye and Liesl for their contribution to this edition of AutismGM. If anyone else would like to review either a book or DVD for future editions then please contact the Family Services Development Project.

The reviewer is able to keep the book or DVD they review for us.

A small criticism is that by the end of the week’s diary Luke has a sleepover at Samuel Pope’s house and as a parent of both a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder and a child without the reality that I would let my child sleep at another’s house after knowing them for such a short time was unrealistic.

Debbie Waters Project Officer

Celebrating creativity and innovation 5-6 March 2013 Harrogate International Centre, King's Road, Harrogate North Yorkshire HG1 5LA With yet another year of cutbacks in funding and resources, The NAS want to focus on the positive work being done to improve the lives of people with autism. That's why the theme of this year's conference is celebrating creativity and innovation.

The Editorial Board has worked hard to develop an outstanding programme which draws together examples of best practice by professionals who are working hard to make a difference. In particular, you will hear from expert speakers about the latest developments in the field of autism.

Keynote sessions given by top international speakers will present an overview of the changing autism environment, and a series of expert seminars will provide you with practical strategies to implement with your colleagues. Personal perspectives will be shared by world-famous author Rudy Simone and renowned autism speaker Dean Beadle.

Early Bird Rate

Standard Rate

Delegate Rate £375 + VAT

£395 + VAT

NAS Members

£345 + VAT

Exhibitor Rate

£295 + VAT

Call Janet Matthews on Tel: 0115 911 3367 (9am-5pm, Mon-Fri) Email conference@nas.org.uk

-

£1,295 + VAT

4

NEW AND UPDATED INFORMATION SHEETS

T ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

he following Information Sheets have been updated from the Autism Helpline:-

Before choosing an approach Employment and Support Allowance Families@ supporting brothers and sisters Information sheets and leaflets available from the Autism Helpline Pathological Demand Avoidance (professional version) Sleep and autism: helping your child Social skills for adolescents and adults (formerly known as Social skills) The abolition of adult Disability Living Allowance Courses for professionals in autism and other related topics Dentists - supporting adults with autism Blue badge scheme: a guide for parents and carers Carer's rights Dietary management for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders restricted diet Education: choosing a school in England and Wales SPELL The sensory world of autism (formerly known as Sensory) Autism spectrum disorders and self-injurious behaviour Behaviour guidelines Dietary management for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders: overeating

Available on the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/infosheets

D

id you know that there’s a FREE quarterly magazine produced by and for adults with autism spectrum conditions? The magazine is called Asperger United and is published 4 times a year (in January, April, July and October).

To request a sample copy of Asperger United, write to: The Membership Team The National Autistic Society 393 City Road London EC1V 1NG

5

Tel: 020 7903 3563 Or Email: membership@nas.org.uk

NAS RECOMMENDED LINKS

Asperger syndrome: reality

Rethinking Autism—podcast

myths and

Listen to a podcast of a discussion about the changes proposed in the new diagnostic manual DSMV, involving Wendy Lawson, Gillian Baird, Tony Charman, Wil Mandy and Jolanta Lasota. This discussion was hosted by the Institute of Education on October 8th and is posed on the Ambitious About Autism website.

A film about Asperger syndrome in which several people with AS explain how it affects them. The film lasts 24 minutes and was made in 2011. https://shootingpeople.org/watch/104378/ asperger-syndrome-myths-reality

www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk

RESEARCH PROGRAMME Improving NHS care for young people with complex health conditions (including autism).

A

major new national study examining whether teenagers with long term health problems are receiving the best healthcare from the NHS was launched 26th September 2012.

and what can help make the progression to adult care more effective and efficient.

Professor Allan Colver, Consultant Paediatrician at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Professor of Community Child Health at Newcastle University is leading the programme. He said: “We all know that the teenage years are full of changes and challenges and may be difficult for some. If, as a young person you also have to cope with health issues and take more responsibility for your own healthcare - that can be a very daunting prospect.

The £2 million research grant from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), aims to improve the lives of young people with complex health needs – covering everything from chronic diseases such as diabetes or asthma, physical conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, as well as problems which affect mental health, such as autism or depression.

“For some young people, attending clinic appointments and dealing with doctors and therapists is something they’d just rather not do. There is good evidence that young people’s health and wellbeing may deteriorate when they progress to adult services."

Led by Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust with researchers at Newcastle University and other UK institutions, the research programme which is known as Transition, will examine how treatment and care should be best managed for these teenagers, as they leave childhood and become more responsible for their own health from about the age of 16.

“We have a lot to learn about how children’s services in the NHS might prepare young people earlier to make the transfer and how adult services can be better attuned to understanding young people to ensure they keep getting good and consistent healthcare.”

During the five year programme, researchers will work with 500 young people who use health services, from GP practices to hospitals, right across the country to find out what is important to them during this Transition period

(Continued on page 7) 6

(Continued from page 6) Jim Mackey, Chief Executive of Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said: “This is the first time we’ve been awarded a Programme Grant from the National Institute for Health Research and we‘re delighted to lead such an important piece of national work that will benefit so many teenagers across the country.

The period of growing up into adulthood is known as ‘Transition’. It covers all aspects of growing up including education, employment and personal relationships. Health is just one aspect of Transition and for a young person their health may not be the most important or as important as doctors think it should be.

Health services must make sure they look after health issues in such a way that they integrate well with all the other parts of a young person’s life.

“We know there are significant areas for improvement when it comes to how the NHS looks after young people with long term health problems. This research will be crucial in providing clear recommendation to all NHS organisations – commissioners, GPs, community teams and acute hospital providers – on exactly how we can together improve the experience and health outcomes for teenagers as they move from children’s to adult services.”

Professor Colver added: “Despite earlier small studies, this is the first major, national research programme to look into this crucial time period in depth. Our aim is to make clear, evidenced recommendations to the NHS that will benefit young people across the UK and ensure they receive the best possible healthcare – starting right here in the North East.”

Funding will support research at: the lead Trust Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and other NHS Trusts in the north east and across the country; Newcastle University and other Universities as well as the Council for Disabled Children.

The Transition research has young people at its heart, taking in their views, examining what works for them and listening to what could be improved. A young people’s group called ‘UP’ forms part of the management team and will co-lead part of the research. The study will develop best practice both for NHS Trusts delivering these services and to help the NHS better plan and develop such services in the future.

For further information about this piece of research visit:-

http://research.ncl.ac.uk/transition/ index.html

SHORT BREAKS NETWORK WEBSITE

T

he Short Breaks Network has a new website. You can look up by local authority and find each local authority’s statement on short break provision for children with disabilities, their eligibility criteria, and sometimes lists of short breaks available.

For further information visit http://www.shortbreaksnetwork.org.uk

7

I

n our Summer edition of AutismGM we were pleased to include Alexander Philip Nickisson’s poem entitled My Mind as it had been chosen as the winner of the Poetry Category of the Create Art for Autism competition. What we didn’t realise was that the Greater Manchester area had not one but two Winners and one Finalist in the Create Art For Autism competition.

Hanna Warrich aged 20yrs attends the Seashell Trust and was a Finalist in the 2D category with her painting Girl Playing With Leaves.

David Greenberg aged 16yrs Inscape House School won the 2D Category with his Scottish Pipers.

Here’s what David’s Mum had to say about his art work.

“Being born and brought up in Scotland I bought a book for David called ‘Scottish Pipers’ which featured photography by Colin Baxter. David studied the book in great detail and it inspired many wonderful piper illustrations fitting many unusual spaces which included the bath mat. We planned to use the bath mat for my aunt who was recovering from hip surgery. We found David illustrating it in his playroom with biro and felt tip. My aunt was amazed by the originality of the idea—we should always give our children the freedom to Create!”

Here’s what the Judges had to say.

“Incredible” “Funny” “Imaginative” “Lots of personality”.

Hani’s teacher, Heidi Bryan writes “Hani is a shy, introverted young woman who could simply blend into the background of any class.

Her preference is to be alone. One afternoon she allowed me to work one-to-one with her so that I could create opportunities for her to communicate and interact.

I decided to produce a range of transparencies and offer to Hani. Hani carefully looked through the assortment and picked up the image of the girl, much like herself, lost in her own actions of playing with leaves in the breeze. That afternoon was a wonderful experience; unfortunately, it has become a one-time only opportunity as Hani does not normally allow interaction.”

More than 550 entries were received for this year’s competition, across the four categories – 2D Art, 3D Art, Digital Art and Poetry. The judging panel, which was led by British actress Jane Asher and television and radio presenter Gaby Roslin, selected the winners and the highly commended artists for each category and presented them with their awards.

Now in its second year, the competition is open to all young people aged 11 to 25 years who have formally been diagnosed with an autistic spectrum disorder. To view all the art work visit:-

Well done David.

www.beechwoodcollege.co.uk/ 8 finalists

The Autism Experience, Strength and Hope Project Parent-to- Parent advice

W

P

e are hoping to compile a book of letters from parents of children with autism to other parents whose child has just been diagnosed.

lease submit your letters to us at the address below and try to include what has helped you and your child.

Research and talking to parents has shown us that those who have just received a diagnosis are daunted and scared of the future ahead and would value hearing from other families further down the road. Similarly, parents who have gone through the assessment processes and come out the other side are often keen to share ‘what they wish they’d known’ in those early days.

Many thanks Debbie Waters Project Officer

Debbie Waters, Project Officer Family Services Development Project The National Autistic Society Anglo House Chapel Road Northenden Manchester M22 4JN Tel: 0161 998 4667 OR Email: debbie.waters@nas.org.uk

By compiling a book of different experiences we hope to convey some of the hard earned wisdom, strength and hope that only fellow parents can offer to someone coming to terms with the news that their child has autism.

Social media campaign launched to dispel autism myths

T

he NAS has launched a social media campaign to dispel common myths surrounding autism and Asperger syndrome and to raise general awareness of the condition. A myth about autism will be tweeted, closely followed by a corresponding fact, each day in the run up to World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April 2013.

♦

AutismFact: There are over 500,000 people with autism in the UK (around 1 in 100) www.bit.ly/hpbNPQ

♦

AutismFact: Asperger is a German name & is pronounced with a hard 'G' as there is no soft 'G' in the German language http://bit.ly/Rqz4pP

Here are some 'taster' myths and facts: ♦

AutismMyth: Autism is a rare condition which is only diagnosed in a small number of people

Please help promote the campaign by retweeting via the main NAS Twitter account: https://twitter.com/ NatAutisticSoc. 9

A VISIT TO THE HAIRDRESSERS

F

or children with autism a trip to the hairdressers can be incredibly stressful.

Difficulties understanding language, being touched, the feel of different textures, smells, fluorescent lighting, changes to their routine, coping with new environments or people can make the whole thing quite a challenge! But with a little knowledge and some simple adjustments, it’s possible to make it a better experience for child, parent and hairdresser.

Wet the hair for a more precise cut and to prevent dry loose hair falling on the child which may cause distress and become itchy.

If using clippers, start with the guard on, running them over your hand to show they won’t hurt. Let the child do the same.

Some children may benefit from playacting, pretending to cut the hair of a doll.

Preparation before the haircut Visit the salon before the appointment so that you can advise the best place for your child to sit and identify whether there is anything that may upset him/her to you can make appropriate adjustments.

Perhaps take a photo of the stylist and the chair so the child can familiarise themselves with the salon beforehand. Use of a social story could also be helpful.

Provide your child with earphones and perhaps a personal stereo with their favourite music on as this could help to keep your child calmer by shutting out background noise which may annoy him/her.

Some parents have found that the haircut is made easier by hugging their child in their lap. This can provide gentle pressure which may have a calming effect for the child and reduce their anxiety whilst having their hair cut.

Book double the appointment time at a quiet time and not when any strong-smelling treatments might be going on.

Here are a just few tips to make the experience more manageable:-

These suggestions have been gathered from a variety of sources (NAS website, Aukids magazine and NAS Communication magazine).

If any parent would like a photocopy of this material please contact The Family Services Development Project Tel: 0161 998 4667.

If your child is sensitive to strong smells it might be beneficial to take along your own shampoo and conditioner.

The use of a timer could be helpful as it would visually show when the haircut starts and finishes.

Going to the hairdressers - A guide for parents of children with autism and Asperger syndrome

By Laura Slade Published by The National Autistic Society NAS654 £1.00

Use of a TV, games console or favourite toy or story could help focus the child’s attention away from the haircut and help them sit in one place.

Allow the child to touch any equipment (as long as it’s safe to do so) and explain what is going to happen in simple language.

Give the child a mirror to hold and let them use the water spray or comb themselves if it makes them feel more comfortable.

This helpful booklet explains why a child with an ASD may become distressed when having a haircut and suggests some strategies to help. The booklet can be ordered online at www.autism.org.uk or by Tel: 0845 458 9911 quoting NAS654 Code.

10

‘WE EXIST TOO’ SAYS SIBLINGS NAS report on the experiences of siblings of older adults with autism

T

he National Autistic Society has published a report on the experiences of siblings of adults with autism.

Autism is a lifelong condition and yet there is relatively little research about how it affects adults as they grow older. Many adults with autism are cared for and supported by their parents, but when their parents are no longer able to care for them it is likely to fall down to siblings to provide this care.

To highlight the needs of those older people with autism and their siblings, The National Autistic Society has released the report We exist too: valuing the contribution of siblings. Based on an online survey of 111 siblings who have brothers or sisters with autism over the age of 40, the report shows the social, financial and care issues of older people on the spectrum. It also highlights what support those individuals need in order to manage their day-to-day lives.

♦

nearly half of siblings feel that they do not have a choice about whether or not to support their sibling and feel unsupported by the local authority. Of those who contacted the local authority, 63% rated their response as poor.

♦

89% of siblings surveyed are worried about the future for their brother or sister with autism.

♦

siblings want help with finances, local support groups, domestic help and befrienders.

♦

half of siblings regard their brother or sister with autism to be socially isolated.

It is hoped that this report will provide a starting point for more research into the experiences and needs of older people with autism.

The key findings from the report are: ♦

elderly parents continue to care for their ageing children without sufficient help or knowledge of where to find help.

♦

fewer than half of siblings who responded have planned for the future support of their brother or sister with autism once their parents are no longer able to support them. Professional guidance is therefore urgently needed.

♦

siblings are more than willing to support their brother or sister with autism out of love, but few feel able to take over the full caring responsibilities of their parents when they can no longer manage.

You can read the full report at:-

www.autism.org.uk/siblingsurvey

11

NOW AVAILABLE TO ORDER

W

hether you're looking for a traditional card or something a bit different, you're sure to find it in this wonderful collection. And don't forget that by buying and sending NAS cards, you're raising vital awareness of autism and helping the society to achieve their vision of a world where everyone with autism gets to live the life they choose.

If you would like to order a catalogue and order form, please email xmascards@nas.org.uk or download the pdf catalogue from the NAS website www.autism.org.uk/shop/christmascards Telephone orders can be placed by ringing

Tel: 01948 831068 Monday to Friday 9am—5pm

PREPARING CHILDREN WITH ASD FOR CHRISTMAS

C

hristmas is an exciting and enjoyable time, but for families of people with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) it can sometimes be stressful. Children and adults with ASD may become confused or distressed by all the new activity within the household and this in turn can be upsetting for the rest of the family.

The NAS has produced an Information Sheet which provides a number of tips and suggestions to help you avoid these difficulties and enable the whole family to enjoy the festive season. It also includes some suitable gift ideas for family members on the autism spectrum.

To obtain a copy of the NAS Information Sheet entitled Christmas and autism spectrum disorders you can either view and download it from the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk or telephone The Family Services Development Project on Tel: 0161 998 4667 and we can either email you a copy or post it to your home.

12

FORTHCOMING EVENTS IN THE REGION The 9th Annual National Conference organised by professionals and parents in partnership Autism A Hands on Approach Stepping Hill Hospital Stockport Tuesday 20th November 2012 Speakers will include

Dr Sue Fletcher-Watson (Nuffield Fellowship, Edinburgh University). Currently involved in CLICK-EAST computer based learning project. Speaking on the role of IT in nonverbal communication.

Prof. Ann Le Couter (Co-Lead of the Autism Research Team at Newcastle University). With over 20 years experience of ASD and associated mental health issues. She will focus on repetitive behaviours and anxieties.

Charlotte Moore, Journalist and author of ‘George & Sam’ returns to chair and share more of her experiences at the 2012 conference.

for the benefit of someone with a learning disability.

To book your place contact: Gina Collins, Wills & Trusts Team Tel: 020 7696 6925

Kidz Up North Thursday 29th November 2012 9.30am—4.30pm Reebok Stadium, Premier Suite Middlebrook Exhibition Centre Burnden Way, Bolton BL6 6JW An event for children, parents and professionals organised

by Disabled Living with Free entry, Free parking, easy access. Information on funding, seating, beds, mobility, accessible vehicles, communication, toys, bathing, wellbeing, sports and leisure etc.

For further information contact: Disabled Living for Tel: 0161 607 8200 Email: info@disabledliving.co.uk

Dr Liz Pellicano (Snr Lecturer, Institute of Education, London), her research seeks to understand the way in which autistic people perceive and interpret the world around them.

Positive About Autism

Conference Fee includes: delegate pack, lunch & refreshments throughout and a CPD Certificate (if required).

Thursday 6th December 2012 9.30am—4pm

Parents: £35.00 Professionals: £100 Further details please contact: Tanya Farley Tel: 07966 399 709 Twitter @autism_handson

Planning for the Future Events Friday 23rd November 2012 12.30pm—2.30pm Zion Arts Centre Brayshaw Room, 335 Stretford Road Hulme, Manchester M15 5ZA Mencap have organised this FREE information session 13 where you can find out more about setting up Wills and trusts

Café Unity 228 Finney Lane Finney Lane Heald Green STOCKPORT SK8 3QA This course will look at sensory processing and sensitivity differences in autism and present some direct and environmental approaches and tools you can use. Positive learning activities which utilise strength and interests are the key to engaging people with autism. This course will teach you how to build a programme of activities that engage people with autism and build towards positive outcomes.

The course is aimed at staff who work in education, healthcare, social care, supported living.

Delegate price £88 People with ASC//Parents or Carers £25 Refreshments and lunch included.

Contact: 0115 714 9000 or 07999 716 106

ASD PARENT SUPPORT GROUPS cheryl.salt@stockport.gov.uk

BOLTON

OLDHAM/continued

Hyperactivity And Euro Developmental Family Unity Link (H.a.n.d.f.u.l.)

Tel: 01204 794979 Contact: Michelle Daubney Email: handfulhelp@yahoo.co.uk

A.S.C. (Autistic Spectrum Condition support group) Contact: Natalie Hughes (Treasurer) Tel: 07825899658 Email: paash@live.co.uk

BURY

ROCHDALE

Bury Autism Parent Society Tel: 761 0132 Contacts: Joanne and Tony Moran Email: mail@baps-online.org (Telephone support only)

Littleborough Autism, Aspergers syndrome and ADHD Support Triangle (L.A.A.A.S.T.) Tel: 07980 983872 Contact: Liesl Beckles (Telephone support only)

Bury Autism/Asperger syndrome Support Group Contact: Chris Parkinson Tel: 0161 763 4867 Email: burycarers@yahoo.co.uk

Rochdale Circles Support Group Tel: 07901 854741 (will be answered by a member of the Rochdale Parent Forum Email: parentforum@hotmail.com

MANCHESTER

SALFORD

The Autumn Group Contact: Sue Broaderst Tel: 07581 103 771 Email: autumngroup@live.co.uk

Salford Action for Autism (SAFA) Tel: 0796 3024759 Carol Gray or Barbara Berry Website: www..salford-action-forautism.com

P.O.S.Y. (Parents of Special Youngsters) Contact: Leslye Vaughan Tel: 0161 436 4043 Email: leslye.posy@yahoo.com

NEW! Autism and Friends Contact: Sandra Moore Tel: 07544649696

NEW! Grange Parents Group Contact: Anne-Marie O’Reilly Tel: 0161 947 9270 Email: annmarieoreilly63@yahoo.com

NEW! Sensory Stay and Play Tel: 0161 778 0051 Email: belvedere.childrenscentre@salford.gov.uk

OLDHAM

STOCKPORT

OSCA Tel: 07913672175 Contact: Cathy Williams, or Maria Aspin Email: osca@bigfoot.com Website: www.fdk.org.uk/osca.html

Living with Autism Tel: 0161 283 4750 Contact: Sue Allison

STOCKPORT/continued NEW! Stockport Carers for Adults on the Autistic Spectrum Meets on the 3rd Tuesday of every month 7.30-9pm at The Newbridge Centre Contact: Rayonette Jude Tel: 0161 439 0627 Email: stockportCAAS@gmail.com

TAMESIDE TASCA (Tameside Action for social communication & Autism support group) Tel: 07754873480 (Mon-Fri 9.3.30pm only) Contact: Valerie and Neil Bayley Email: tasca4u@ntlworld.com Website: www.tasca.org.uk Tameside Asperger’s syndrome Support Group Tel: 716 3600 Contact: Julie Scrymgeour@nhs.net Autism Support for Parents & Carers Contact: Dan Redfearn or Holly Turton Tel: 0161 342 5197 or 5194 Email: d.redfearn@nhs.net Email: hollyturton@nhs.net

TRAFFORD ADHD/ASD Family Support Group Tel: 07969 459523 (Jess)

WIGAN NEW! Love Autism Support Group Contact: Emma Harvie Tel: 07730 582487 Email:

Stockport ASD Partnership Project Support Group Offering monthly sessions with invited speakers.

Tel: 249 4474 Contact: Cheryl Salt

OTHER SUPPORT GROUPS IN GREATER MANCHESTER The Autistic Society Greater Manchester Area (ASGMA)

Cygnet Springside ASD Support Group

A group for parents of children and adults with Asperger’s syndrome.

Organises events for parents, carers and individuals affected by ASC. Professionals are also welcome.

For further information regarding dates and times please contact the ASGMA Information Officer Tel: 0161 866 8483 Email: information@asgma.org.uk 14

Contact: Peter Lawson Tel: 0161 443 4060 Email: peterlawson@cygnethealth.co.uk.