| Date |
Title |
28 Feb
2011 |
Draft Hampshire Autism Strategy for Adults
The plan for improving services for adults with autism in Hampshire
The Draft Hampshire Autism Strategy for Adults was launched this week, for a 12 week consultation from 27 February to 18 May 2012.
Hampshire Autism Partnership Board listened to you via ‘Autism Participation – Have your say’, where parents, carers, siblings, people with autism and those working with people with autism told them what was working and what was not working for people with autism and their families in Hampshire. They have used this information to write a draft Hampshire Autism Strategy for Adults.
The Autism Act 2009 requires them to develop a strategy to improve services for adults with autism by 2013.
A draft Hampshire Autism Strategy for Children will be developed during 2012 and will be consulted on at a later date.
They would like to know your views on the draft Hampshire Autism Strategy for Adults. There is a questionnaire that will help you tell them what you think of it. The comments they get will help them to make any final changes before the strategy for adults is launched in Autumn 2012.
You can find the strategy and on-line and downloadable feedback questionnaires at the following link. Alternatively, you can obtain a hard copy of the strategy and feedback questionnaire by telephoning 01962 847946:
http://www.hants.gov.uk/autism-strategy-consultation.htm
From this link you can also get information about the consultation events being held around the County, so you can tell Hampshire Autism Partnership Board what you think of the draft strategy. In addition to the consultations listed, there will be other focused activities across the County too, through local groups and autism networks. |
|
28 Feb
2011 |
Asperger's Syndrome Help Guide
A new help guide has been specifically written, by Jan Wells of Queen Mary’s College, to provide help and guidance to mainstream Science, IT and Maths teachers in a Further Education setting.
However, this excellent document would be a useful tool for anyone who finds they have a learner with Asperger’s Syndrome in their classroom, whatever subject they are taking.
Strategies for Supporting Students with Asperger’s Syndrome to Learn Effectively in a Further Education Setting
We are grateful to the College for making this freely available.
|
|
28 Feb
2011 |
Register for a Gateway card now!
Hampshire County Council's Gateway Card is for children and young people who:have a disability and/or additional needs and may require support to participate in leisure and recreation activities
are between 0 to 19 years old, live in Hampshire and/or attend a school in Hampshire (excluding Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight as they have similar schemes).
It is free and will give you access to activities, play schemes and buddy schemes available through their short breaks programme.
It will be necessary to have one of these cards to access all these activities from 1 April 2012.
For full details visit http://www3.hants.gov.uk/childrens-services/specialneeds/shortbreaks/gatewaycard.htm |
|
15 Feb
2011 |
NAS 50th anniversary survey
To mark their 50th birthday, the NAS is conducting their largest ever survey of people with autism and carers of people with autism, so they can get the most comprehensive picture yet of the lives of people affected by autism in the UK.
To access the survey click here - please complete the survey by end of Monday 27 February. |
|
29 Jan
2011 |
Research study into PDA
Elizabeth O'Nions (ESRC PhD student) is undertaking research study into PDA, as part of her PhD research at King's College London.
The study involves using tasks and games that look at how good social understanding is in children who display characteristics of PDA, and whether they get anxious (measured by looking at their heart rate) in the context of social demands. She is also trying to characterise how they interact with her during tasks and games. As well as children with PDA, or traits of PDA, she is also studying children with autism and typically developing children, to see how they compare.
If you are interested in having your son take part in this research, it would involve Elizabeth and a colleague coming to your house and spending about 2 hours doing some games and tasks with your son. They would also arrange to talk to you about behaviours your son or daughter displays at a later point (by phone, or by asking you to do a self-completion questionnaire), and give you feedback on what they observed.If you are potentially interested in taking part, they would very much appreciate your help.
If you could return this screening questionnaire, that would be great.
Elizabeth will be in Winchester on Saturday 4th, and possiby Sunday 5th Feb; and again during early-mid march.
If you'd like to find out more about her research into PDA, please have a look at her website: https://sites.google.com/site/lizonions/
Elizabeth O'Nions (ESRC PhD student) MRC Social Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry (PO80), King's College London Denmark Hill, London SE5 8AF |
|
26 Jan
2011 |
QE2 Activity Centre Holidays 2012
Hampshire Autistic Society are pleased to offer ANYONE with an Autism Spectrum Condition and their families/carers an opportunity to take a 2 night residential break at the QE2 Centre based within Manor Farm Country Park, Bursledon, Southampton.
Holidays include overnight accommodation in a log cabin sleeping up to 8 people, and a choice of activities which may include archery, zip wire, orienteering, crab fishing, canoeing, climbing, rope course and many more (subject to availability). Visit www.qe2activitycentre.co.uk for more information on activities and short breaks.View the information leaflet.
Also information on their Explorer's weekend and Green weekend.
|
|
30 Nov
2011 |
Woodmill Activity Centre – Active Ability Sessions and Paddle and Shoot
Woodmill Activity Centre in Southampton are running some fantastic programme for families with children with disabilities (Subsidised through Southampton Aiming High).
Paddle and Shoot takes place on three Saturdays in the new year. Click here for full details.
Active Ability Sessions on Saturday afternoons from 12.15-1.30pm. Click here for full details.
Please contact Woodmill to book your place via info@woodmill.co.uk or phone: 023 8091 5746.
All those attending must be 8 years old plus.
www.woodmill.co.uk
Woodmill Outdoor Activity Centre, Woodmill Lane Southampton SO18 2JR |
|
29 Nov
2011 |
AACT...Autism, Asperger’s Climbing as Therapy
AACT are continuing to run their indoor rock climbing program at Calshot Activity Centre, designed especially for children with additional needs, e.g. behaviour problems, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Asperger syndrome and autism. The program features one-on-one attention and encouragement where each child climbs at their own pace.
Many Children with Additional Needs have difficulties processing sensory information. Rock climbing is a one stop therapeutic shop! It is very tactile, both in the holds and in the texture of the walls. The holds are brightly coloured with different shapes so are visually stimulating.
Thanks to funding from Inspiring You sessions have been reduced to £10 per child for a 45 minute climbing session.
For further information check out their website: www.aact-climbing.com or contact Nicky on: 07921779154 or email: nicky@aact-climbing.com. |
|
20 Nov
2011 |
Mulit-Arts Group
Creative Class for Young People with Various Disabilities.
These creative sessions of art, dance, music and drama are open to any young person interested in making new friends and having fun!
Tuesdays: 5.00pm – 6.30pm (term time only)
D@rt Centre, Wildern School, Hedge End
Only £2.50 per session
In addition to the regular classes as described on the attached flier, they run day workshops on Tuesdays during the school holidays. These sessions run between 10am and 3pm and are currently free of charge.
For the holiday sessions please contact 01489 779471 or via email at a.neasom@wildern.hants.sch.uk |
|
5 Oct
2011 |
ODEON cinema's Autistic Friendly screening initiative
Following a successful in August, Southampton ODEON held a trial performance of ‘Mr Poppers Penguins’ as part of a new Autistic Friendly screening initiative. This showing for people with learning difficulties and those with autism proved successful so going forward ODEON will be showing a film once a month.
The next 2 films are:
Tuesday 18 October @ 11.30am – Johnny English Reborn
Sunday 13 November – Arthur Christmas
Further film dates can be obtained here.
It is their aim to create an environment in which guest/carers/families can feel comfortable and enjoy the cinema experience. These are shown in a controlled environment, sound turned down, lights up and large screen.
We recommend for your convenience you book and pay in advance of the screening to avoid any distress on the day. Please also note there is very limited wheelchair spaces.
If you would like to contact them regarding any concerns or queries you may have please call ODEON on 023 8033 3515 or at odeon.southampton@odeonuk.com |
|
19 Jun
2011 |
Come Swim With Me Initiative
A Free Family Fun Swimming Session for Disabled Children/Adults and their families
An ideal opportunity to meet new friends and to network with other families
On Sundays 12.30pm to 1.30pm – starts 10 July 2011
www.hamblesportscomplex.com
For more info please call: 02380 452321
Hamble Sports Complex
Satchell Lane
Hamble
Southampton
SO31 4NE |
|
16 Jun
2011 |
New community group formed to support In touch
We are delighted to report that a new voluntary group has been set up to support the excellent work of Eastleigh's In touch project.
Due to cuts in funding, some of the project's activities have been put on hold and the future was looking bleak. After school groups have already ceased, there was no holiday session in the May half term, and the NGS teenage youth club is just about managing to continue.
Now, however, the 'Friends' will be working towards raising money for the project's activities, and would welcome new members and supporters.
A number of members of our branch have used the excellent services of In touch over the years and all the social skills groups that we have organised in recent years have been run by them.
We will keep you informed of progress of the group and let you know about any events taking place through our website and circulations.
Meanwhile, if you would like to find out more, visit the Friends of In touch website at www.friendsofintouch.org |
|
25 May
2011 |
Autism Participation – Have Your Say!
Invitation to a drop-in event
You are invited to one of the drop-in autism participation events to get your views to help develop an Autism Strategy for Hampshire. The events are inviting views from all people with autism spectrum conditions, including Aspergers, relatives, carers and anyone who works with people with autism.
The Government has made a law for teenagers and adults with autism to have better help to live happier lives. This law is called the ‘Autism Act’.
The Government has written a guide about how teenagers and adults with autism and their families can be helped to have better lives. The guide is called ‘Rewarding and Fulfilling Lives: the strategy for adults with autism in England’.
Hampshire County Council (Adults and Children Services), Hampshire Health Services (Adults and Children), Charities, local people with autism and people that help them, all agree it would be good to find out what would help people with autism within Hampshire. This will mean HCC will know what help is needed locally for you.
It was also agreed parents of children, and children with autism, would be asked about what would help them, not just teenagers and adults.
HCC want to hear people with autism and their families views about the help you’ve had so far, and what you think would help make your life better. They want to hear the views of those working with people with autism, especially about good practices and ideas of how services can be improved.
The information you tell them will help them to develop an autism plan for Hampshire. This plan will be called ‘Hampshire’s Autism Strategy’.
Hampshire County Council are holding six events across Hampshire, which will be an opportunity to take part in the pre-consultation by filling out a questionnaire.
If you can not make one of the events but would still like to take part, then please complete the online versions.
These are the dates for the drop-in sessions:
Thursday 2 June 6pm – 8pm
Masonic Hall, Brockenhurst, Grigg Lane, Brockenhurst, SO42 7PG
Monday 6 June 10am – 12 noon
Waterlooville Community Centre, 10 Maurepas Way, Waterlooville, Hants, PO7 7AY (in Asda carpark)
Monday 13 June 10am – 12 noon
Popley Fields Community Centre, Carpenters Down, Popley, Basingstoke, RG24 9AE
Tuesday 21 June 10am – 12 noon
Wells Place Centre, Wells Place, Eastleigh, SO50 5L J – Nightingale Room
Monday 27 June 6pm – 8pm
The Lights, West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH
Thursday 30 June 6pm – 8pm
St Peter’s Church Hall (off Free Street/St Peter’s Street), Bishops Waltham SO32 1EE
Hampshire County Council would be grateful if you could let them know you are coming by completing the online form:
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LLSPQCW |
|
18 May
2011 |
Youth clubs for children with social communication difficulties to be cut
As you will know, for a number of years, we have been signposting young people to two ‘teenage’ youth clubs, NGS (Next Generation Socialization), for young people with social communication difficulties. One of these is based at the Y-Zone Youth Centre in Fair Oak and the other at the Hype Youth Centre in Hamble. See http://www3.hants.gov.uk/childrens-services/youthtube/about-sfyp/youthteams/eastleigh-youth.htm#ngs
Despite public comments from Hampshire County Council leaders that the current wave of cuts across the county will not affect any vulnerable children, both these youth clubs close in a few weeks time!
This is as a direct result of huge cuts to the Youth Service in the county.
We were responsible for getting the Fair Oak club instigated and it has been very successfully run, jointly by the In Touch project and the Youth Service. The Hamble club was formed some time later using a similar model to Fair Oak and is run entirely by the Youth Service.
Between the two clubs, over 40 young people will lose an essential service which is helping them to greatly improve their social skills, their self esteem and confidence. These are not ‘ordinary’ youth clubs – although they feature similar programmes to other youth clubs, they have the additional experienced leaders necessary to give the young people the support and skills to manage their transition into adulthood.
We have also heard of another similar club in the Petersfield area also affected by these cuts.
WE CANNOT ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN!
ONCE THESE CLUBS ARE GONE, WE WILL PROBABLY NEVER GET THEM BACK.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO THESE YOUNG PEOPLE WITHOUT THIS SUPPORT?
This situation is entirely at odds with Hampshire County Council‘s own excellent work developing a county-wide strategy for people with autism. Are our councillors not aware that the Youth Service is involved in working with children with social communication difficulties? Are they not aware of the Autism Act, the autism strategy and the work of their own Hampshire Autism Partnership Board (HAPB)?
We have already raised this issue through the HAPB and it will be an agenda item at the next board meeting.
We will also be meeting with those running the Fair Oak club to look at possible options.
Meanwhile, one parent affected by these cuts has started a petition.
This can be found at http://www.petitiononline.com/intouch/petition.html
If you are as concerned as we are about this situation, please add you name to the ever-growing list.
Why not write to your MP and local county councillors too.
We need to act fast or it will be too late.
Prior to these cuts being announced, we were hoping that more specialised youth groups would be set up in other areas – there is such a need for this.
None of these clubs are expensive to run but the cost to the county, when these young people go into adult life without support or the skills to cope in the outside world, could be many times greater.
Please make your voice heard now. |
|
15 May
2011 |
400 attend Asperger syndrome seminar in Winchester
World renowned expert in Asperger syndrome, Professor Tony Attwood, and Dr Michelle Garnet, Director of 'Minds & Hearts: A Specialist Clinic for Asperger’s Syndrome and Autism’, both travelled from Australia to give an excellent seminar to over 400 parents, carers and professionals in Winchester Guildhall on Tuesday 10 May 2011. Click here for pictures of the day. |
|
31 Mar
2011 |
Hampshire Riding Therapy Centre
This excellent centre cater for adults and children with learning difficulties and disabilities. Throughout April and May they are running a series of after school clubs that may be of benefit for anyone with disabilities and they believe that horse riding is very beneficial. Click here for full details. |
|
22 Mar
2011 |
Calling all young people at school!
The National Autistic Society want to hear from children and young people about what you think about school. They want to know what you like and dislike about school and how you think it could be better.
If you are 19 or younger and are on the autism spectrum and still at school, you can fill out the survey by clicking here.
The survey is open until the end of Wednesday 6 April.
The NAS will use the findings of the survey to help them to campaign to improve education provision for children and young people with autism and tell the Government what you think about school and about their proposals to change the SEN system. They will publish a report later in the year containing the findings of their research. |
|
15 Mar
2011 |
Protect DLA for people with autism
The Government has announced a one billion pound cut to Disability Living Allowance (DLA). MPs are debating plans for a new system which could make it much harder for adults with autism to claim DLA. We have a chance to make them think again.
The NAS Who benefits? report demonstrates what a lifeline DLA is for many adults with autism and their families. We need to do everything we can make sure the Government's plans do not unfairly disadvantage people with autism.
We need you to ask your MP to help protect this crucial benefit for people with autism. |
|
15 Mar
2011 |
Important consultations
SEN Green Paper consultation
The NAS welcomes the ambitions set out in Government's green paper. To find out more and to take part in this important consultation, visit http://www.autism.org.uk/news-and-events/news-from-the-nas/government-publishes-green-paper-on-sen.aspx
HCC's consultations on proposed changes to Home to School Transport
Visit http://www3.hants.gov.uk/consultationonhometoschooltransport |
|
15 Mar
2011 |
2011 Course dates – Free Supporting Parents/Carers Course
The course is designed for parents/carers of children who may have additional needs that may result in socially inappropriate behaviour(s); this may include a diagnosis or statement of Autism, Aspergers Syndrome, E.B.D, Special Educational Needs or displays challenging behaviour. It is an interactive course which offers practical tips and guidance to support their child and their challenging behaviour and to openly discuss individual problems and meet new people in similar situations. The course is delivered by The Loddon Training & Consultancy, the external training division of The Loddon School, a registered charity and residential school for children and young people with complex learning difficulties and autism, located in Sherfield-on-Loddon, Basingstoke, Hampshire.
Course dates for 2011, which run on Thursdays from 9.30am to 2.45pm, are:
28 April 14 July 22 September 27 October 10 November
Click here for full details. |
|
15 Mar
2011 |
QE2 Activity Centre Holiday
Hampshire Autistic Society are pleased to offer ANYONE with an Autism Spectrum Condition and their families/carers an opportunity to take a 2 night residential break at the QE2 Centre based within Manor Farm Country Park, Bursledon, Southampton. Holidays include overnight accommodation in a log cabin sleeping up to 8 people, and a choice of 6 activities. You can choose from archery, zip wire, orienteering, crab fishing, canoeing, climbing, rope course and many more (subject to availability).
Visit www.qe2activitycentre.co.uk for a full list. The dates are:
10 – 12 April, 13 – 15 April, 6 May – 8 May, 27 – 29 May, 24 – 26 June, 8 – 10 July, 7 – 9 August, 10 – 12 August, 16 – 18 September, 21 – 23 October
The holidays are offered at a much reduced rate of £125.00 per cabin (including up to 8 people/activities), are subject to availability and on a first come first served basis. For further details or to make a booking, please contact their Outreach Department on 023 8063 3951 or email: outreach@has.org.uk |
|
13 Mar
2011 |
Calshot Activities Centre
The centre is running a series of ‘No Limits’ courses and sessions throughout 2011. The ‘No Limits’ club is designed to provide fun, challenging and exciting activities sessions for those with a range of disabilities and their sibling between the ages of 8–19 years. Activities will be adapted, where necessary to suit the needs of individuals or the group. Additional care staff can be organised if required. Pre-booking essential. Click here for further information. |
|
5 Feb
2011 |
The London Marathon
One of our members, Luke Syddall, is running this year's London Marathon on 17 April in aid of the National Autistic Society. He will be very pleased to hear from sponsors. Click here to visit his Just Giving page and donate generously! Thank you. |
|
3 Feb
2011 |
Changing Places- Marwell Zoo
We are pleased to announce that as of 18th February, the new changing facilities will open at Marwell Zoo, near Winchester. As you may know, changing places is an initiative aimed at making changing facilities and toilets fully accessible for people with disabilities and thanks to funding from Hampshire County Council and user groups in the community this has been made a reality at Marwell. Often facilities can be a barrier for families wishing to access places like the zoo, but these new facilities will ensure that Marwell is accessible and enjoyable for all.
Marwell Wildlife, Colden Common, Winchester, Hants, SO21 1JH |
|
1 Feb
2011 |
Aiming High... More activities at Ashcroft Arts Centre for young people with disabilities
Drama Class
MONDAYS 4 - 5pm
(Suggested) ages 7 - 13
A great way to use imagination, get creative and build team skills.
Spring Term runs from January-March, new members are always welcome, just call
our Box Office for details.
All are welcome and extra support can be arranged if required.
If transport is a barrier, but your child would like to attend, there is funding available to arrange transport to the Ashcroft. Contact Charlotte Constantine at the Ashcroft for more details.
Box Office: 01329 223 100 www.ashcroft.org.uk
|
|
10 Sep
2010 |
New look to our website
Over the past few years, our branch website space has been provided for us by BT Community Web Kit, a free service from BT for charities and local organisations. This autumn BT is changing its service provider which has meant that, during the summer, we have had to recreate our entire site with the new provider. We have taken the opportunity to give the site a fresher and clearer look and hope you like it. We are always pleased to receive constructive feedback, so please let us know what you think of it – it is there for you, so if there is anything you would like to see added, please let us know. |
|
7 Sep
2010 |
Transition Drop-ins
Is your child approaching year 9 or older? Do you need advice and information on post 16 and what happens next? Parent Voice Western will be holding monthly drop-ins with Transition Social Workers Chris Dyke and Paula Ray. All of the sessions will take place at The Bradbury Centre, Southampton, SO16 5NA.
The dates for these drop-ins are on Thursday from 12.30–2.30pm on:
16 September, 21 October, 18 November and 16 December.
For more information please contact Lucy Fripp on 023 8072 1206 or via email at lucyfripp@roseroad.org.uk |
|
6 Sep
2010 |
Transition Pathway
Hampshire County Council has produced a Transition Pathway leaflet which is a step by step guide to help and support you prepare your child’s plans for their future. |
|
6 Sep
2010 |
Winter Paddleability
There will be new Saturday sessions at Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre (Southampton) in winter 2010. The programme is called Paddleability and will feature paddling sessions for people with disabilities (aged 8 years old plus). Paddling involves kayaking and canoeing on the lake and as you progress, onto the river. The sessions are run by qualified and trained staff and supported by a team of volunteers and run in the safe and fun environment of the centre.
- The sessions will run on Saturday mornings starting on the 18 September 2010.
- There will be one session running from 12.00pm – 1.00pm
- The session cost has been subsidised due to external and internal funding enabling each session to run for £5 per person 8 to 19 year olds and £8 for over 19 year olds. (You are not required to pay when you book).
- All waterproof clothing and wetsuits are provided (clients just need a set of warm clothes, spare clothes, a towel and shoes you can get wet!)
- Support workers are not provided but are welcome to come along; it cannot be guaranteed that they will get on the water, unless it is totally necessary for the client.
- All equipment and training is included.
It is essential that you book onto the sessions beforehand to ensure that the correct number of staff available and that the equipment is free to suit requirements. You are not required to pay in advance. To book your place, please contact Sarah on: sarah.moorehead@southampton.gov.uk Tel: 023 8091 5746. |
|
12 Jul
2010 |
ASD Learning Action Groups for teachers and other school staff
The Learning Action Group (LAG) model has been developed as a cost-effective way for schools to develop their provision and inclusive practice for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). We work with both local authority and independent sectors.
LAGs are set up for groups of either mainstream primary, mainstream secondary or SEN schools. This is due to the requirements of each of these settings being specific to the abilities/ needs and age groups of its pupils. LAGs are run locally and historically participating schools take turns to host the workshops.
The LAGs address relevant topics and issues relating to ASD and offer practical support through advice, bespoke training and interaction with other professionals within the group experiencing similar challenges.
For full details, click here. |
|
12 Jun
2010 |
Autism Education Trust launches new website for young people with autism
A new website for teenagers with autism called The Den has been launched by the Autism Education Trust (AET), England’s only umbrella organisation for autism education.
The Den is a hub of information, advice, personal stories, films and games designed specifically for teenagers and young adults on the autism spectrum and their siblings and friends.
The new website is the first of its kind, designed to give teenagers with autism information about the subjects which may interest or worry them in a way they can easily digest, as well as share their opinions and experiences. It uses short films to present a lot of the information, as many people with autism find visual information easier to process. The films also have the option of sub-titles. Visitors to The Den can meet the team of experts and email questions directly, offering them the chance to ask for advice on sensitive topics. The ‘Get the facts’ section includes essential information and expert advice on a range of general life topics from health and relationships to work and money, and includes links to further advice. |
|
12 Jun
2010 |
Aiming High short breaks
Hampshire County Council’s full short break offer is available to children living in the county (excluding Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight as they have similar funding available locally) who:
- are eligible for higher rate Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for care or mobility; or
- attend a special school.
Further information is available from http://www3.hants.gov.uk/short_breaks_factsheet_parents.pdf
or contact Lucy Fripp at Parent Voice (023 8072 1206 or lucyfripp@roseroad.org.uk) for information about local meetings in the next fortnight to explain the programme.
|
|
11Jun
2010 |
Support from Eastleigh Carnival
We are delighted to report that our Branch has been selected as the main beneficiary charity of Eastleigh Carnival this year.
Carnival week takes place in August and various events will be advertised in the local press.
We hope you will be able to join in the fun and support the events.
In addition to us being the main charity, many other local groups will benefit from the proceeds of the week. |
|
9 Jun
2010 |
Makeover for NAS website
With over 280,000 visits a month, the NAS website is one of the most important online sources of information about autism on the planet. Using the internet to support and connect the autism community is a major priority for the NAS. That’s why they have invested in new technology and a better website.
The internet is now about so much more than one-way communication, so their strategy promotes interaction between visitors and supporters and between NAS staff and everyone interested in autism. You’ll see more and more initiatives to support this interaction, from simple content rating tools to a new online community.
Why not visit the site now, at www.autism.org.uk and register to become part of this new online community.
|
|
8 Jun
2010 |
New National Autistic Society campaign – You Need To Know
A message from Mark Lever, NAS Chief Executive about this campaign:
Thousands of children suffer mental health problems. Needlessly.
Mental health problems are not an inevitable part of autism and the right support at the right time can make all the difference. And yet too many children with autism are being let down by a mental health system that fails to understand this.
The NAS has just launched a new campaign called You Need To Know which is calling on the Government and NHS to provide better mental health services for children with autism.
"Almost the first thing the psychiatrist did was to hold up their hands and say. 'We have no services in this health district for children on the autistic spectrum'." Parent of a child with autism
We need your help to make sure the Government gives this issue the priority it deserves. It only takes 30 seconds to take part. Look up your MP by typing your postcode into our online form and you can email them the message we've already written. That's all it takes to make a difference.
Many thanks for your ongoing support of the NAS.
Families need to know that they are not alone – that the NAS are here to help them every step of the way. They provide a range of support and services around the country for people living with autism, many funded by voluntary donations. To see what's available for you, including information and support for people affected by the issues raised by the You Need To Know campaign, please visit the campaign website.
|
|
12 May
2010 |
Research request
We have recently heard about a new exciting and fascinating idea, and one if properly realised, can help people to understand Autism and Asperger syndrome.
Steve Burton wants to make a film that gives children with autism their own voice and shows, or tries to show, how our world looks to them. The producer, Claire Lewis, is a very experienced in film and TV, and produced the award winning 7 Up series and the recent environmental film ‘The End of The Line’, about the oceans and overfishing which has just been screened on Channel 4.(www.endoftheline.com).
One of the things they would like to do is to meet parents and children as part of their basic research. One idea they are particularly interested in pursuing is handing cheap still cameras to the children to take photographs of what they look at and what they see – to give them an idea of their world.
They are based in the south of England but will travel to talk to parents anywhere.
If you are interested to be involved, please contact Jenni Day on 07779 598758 or email her at jenni_day@rocketmail.com. |
|
9 May
2010 |
More events at Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre
Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre are having a lot of exciting centre developments, one of which will enable them to run fishing on their lake for people/groups with disabilities.
They are planning to run a morning taster session on Friday 21 May at a cost of £5 per person and are keen to gauge interest in this – so please let them know if you are interested and they will send out further information.
Following this session they do plan to run regular fishing sessions on Mondays between 6.00 and 8.00pm, and on Sundays from 9.30am to midday. These sessions will also be at £5 (including instruction and the use of centre fishing equipment) and booked directly through the centre.
If you are interested, please contact Anna Zakotti, Sports Development Officer (Outdoor Sport), email anna.zakotti@southampton.gov.uk or phone 07920 210684 or 023 8091 5748 (Woodmill)
Don’t forget, as announced previously, the centre are also introducing a new Paddleability programme (for people with disabilities aged 8 years old plus). Paddling involves kayaking and canoeing on their lake and as you progress, onto the river. The sessions are run by qualified and trained staff and supported by a team of volunteers and run in the safe and fun environment of the centre. The sessions will run on Thursday evenings starting on 6 May. |
|
8 May
2010 |
Free PECS (Picture Symbols) on the iPhone
Free PECS (Picture Symbols) on the iPhone for asd/AS users
There is a really useful application on the iPhone to make Picture Communication Symbols more portable for non-verbal children or adults with autism. It may be free to certain phone users - follow the link:
http://www.autismireland.ie/detail.asp?ID=333
This could be a fantastic application to have for parents, carers, and people with autism, and also staff working with people on the spectrum. |
|
8 May
2010 |
Delivering the Adult Autism Strategy
The first year delivery plan for the adult autism strategy was published at the start of April. It sets out what will happen in 2010/11 to begin putting the recommendations in the strategy into practice. Much of the first year plan focuses on actions to be taken at national level, but that doesn’t mean that local authorities don’t need to start looking now at how they are going to deliver the strategy, and many are already moving forward.
One of the priorities must be to get structures in place to enable local authorities to deliver the strategy. Every area should appoint a local lead with responsibility for autism and we are pleased to report that Hampshire County Council has already done this.
The strategy also says that local areas must include adults with autism and their parents/carers in planning and delivering services, and recommends setting up Autism Partnership Boards ‘that bring together different organisations, services and stakeholders locally and set a clear direction for improved services’.
The Hampshire Autism Partnership Board has been formed and the National Autistic Society are represented on this both at regional and branch level. Rachel Carter is our representative on the board and will be pleased to receive comments and feedback from you to ensure your voice is being heard. |
|
6 May
2010 |
Launch of the Managing Money project
With funding from the Financial Services Authority, as part of their national strategy for financial capability, the NAS has developed a new educational programme.
The online resource is aimed at empowering young people and adults with autism to learn how to manage their money. It consists of 25 learning modules including bank accounts, investing money, paying bills, personal security and fraud.
The website will also include interactive quizzes, downloadable budgeting tools, video tutorials and a virtual ATM. It has been developed in consultation with people with autism and their parents and can be used for both independent learning and in a group or class setting. For those who are not comfortable with e-learning, a free printed workbook will be available from the end May.
For more information visit www.managingmoney.org.uk |
|
12 Apr
2010 |
Adult Autism Strategy for England has been published
This sets out a long list of actions to radically improve health, social care and other public services for people with autism and includes chapters on awareness-raising and training, diagnosis, improving access to services, improving access to employment and supporting local partners to work together to develop services. Crucially, the strategy also emphasises that local authorities and health services should be involving adults with autism and their parents/carers in developing and delivering services. A link to the full strategy, is available on the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/dhstrategy.
Change will not happen overnight, but the strategy is a huge step forward, and the NAS couldn't have done it without you. The Autism Act 2009, which placed a duty on the Government to produce the strategy would not have been passed without your support, and the strategy includes many of the measures that the NAS have been calling for in the I Exist and Don't Write Me Off campaigns. |
|
11 Apr
2010 |
BIC® Kids School Club
The National Autistic Society has teamed up with BiC® Kids UK to offer support to teachers working with children and young people with autism. As part of the partnership they have worked with BiC Kids to make free downloadable autism resources available to teachers and parents from their website. A monthly prize draw will give nursery and primary schoolteachers the chance to win £150 worth of BIC Kids colouring products when they sign up and download the free teaching resource. For more information visit www.bickidsschoolclub.com. |
|
5 Apr
2010 |
Woodmill Paddleability 2010
Woodmill Outdoor Activities Centre are introducing a new programme at their Centre. The programme is called Paddleability and they will be running paddling sessions for people with disabilities (aged 8 years old plus). Paddling involves kayaking and canoeing on their lake and as you progress onto the river. The sessions are run by qualified and trained staff and supported by a team of volunteers and run in the safe and fun environment of the centre. The sessions will run on Thursday evenings starting on 6 May and full details are available here. |
|
5 Apr
2010 |
Awards for All grant
We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded a grant by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund’s Awards for All scheme. This is to extend our outreach to individuals and families affected by autism. We are planning to run some events later in the year as a result of this and more information will be available soon. The grant will also fund a laptop and multimedia projector for the branch which will be a great help when delivering talks and seminars. |
|
25 Jan
2010 |
Autism friendly screenings in Eastleigh
The Vue Cinema in Eastleigh is planning to launch Additional Needs Screenings from February.
These screenings are targeted at children and young people who have additional needs. Siblings and adults of the person with additional needs are more than welcome. The idea is to have it as a normal family trip to the cinema. Everyone pays the same – 95p.
As film volumes tend to be quite high they turn down the volume and have the house lights up slightly in case guests wish to move about during the performance.
To ensure this is only available to those with additional needs, the screenings will not be announced on the cinema website but will appear on the Diary dates pages of our website – so please keep checking as we will publicise these as soon as we get the information. We will also circulate the information to all those on our email circulation list.
Tickets will be available to be purchased either directly from the cinema itself or via their telephone booking line. They will not be listed on the internet, to prevent tickets being miss-sold.
Vue cinemas will be listing it as A for Film.
The screenings will follow a similar pattern as the Vue Cinema in Camberley who, in conjunction with the NAS Surrey Branch, have been running fortnightly A for Film screenings on a Sunday morning at 9.30am. |
|
18 Dec
2009 |
Animations about Asperger syndrome
Charlotte has aspergers and has made some fantastic animations about her experiences and what it is like to be on the autistic spectrum.
To view the animations made by Charlotte, visit the ITV Fixers website. |
|
4 Dec
2009 |
NAS free Christmas guide
The NAS have produced a free Christmas guide to the festive season for parents and carers of children with autism. This includes advice about involving your child in Christmas activities, remembering the needs of siblings and making presents autism friendly.
The guide is available to download from the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/christmas. |
|
29 Nov
2009 |
Supporting Children in Education
Many parents raise concerns about how well their child is going to cope with moving from primary to secondary school. This can be a difficult time for young people, especially when they have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Up until now there has been little research carried out on this subject. Consequently, there are few formal support structures in place. Many schools have to work on a 'trial and error' basis if they decide to put transition packages into place.
The research team at Great Ormond Street Hospital have received a grant from their Children’s Charity, to enable them to research the difficulties and stresses that occur when a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder moves to secondary school. Through examining these difficulties and learning more about current school practices they wish to create a new system of evaluation and intervention that primary and secondary schools can use to help them to put in appropriate support for the transition.
They need to learn more about the ways in which schools and parents are currently planning for transition to secondary school. There are various ways in which you can participate in the research – click here for more information. |
|
16 Nov
2009 |
The Schoolgate directory
Mr Greg Naughton from the University of Winchester, is involved in increasing access to leisure and recreational opportunities for disabled young people across Hampshire. He has recently complied The Schoolgate directory - the result of a research project, commissioned by Hampshire County Council, to examine existing access to sports, leisure and cultural opportunities for disabled young people across Hampshire.
The University of Winchester has, as a result of this research, created this directory that provides information about recreation and leisure facilities, and this will also become available through a website. He is still looking for those groups who wish to develop access to facilities in their area.
Overall, the project aims to develop from existing activity and work with organisations and communities already involved in issues of access and disability. |
|
6 Nov
2010 |
Meeting with John Denham MP
The Branch Officer, along with the organiser of our Asperger Support & Social Groups in Southampton, recently met with Southampton MP and Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, John Denham.
The reason for our meeting was to bring to his attention the lack of funding being approved by Southampton Primary Care Trust to adults who have been referred by local GPs to the Autism Diagnostic Research Centre in the city. We highlighted the fact that both Hampshire and Portsmouth PCTs were approving funding but Southampton seemed to have a different approach.
He has agreed that this is not acceptable and has promised to investigate for us.
We now await the outcome. |
|
5 Nov
2009 |
New youth club being formed
We are delighted to announce that a 'teenage' youth club, similar to our established club in Fair Oak, is being set up at Hamble College for young people from Year 7 onwards (12+) with mild to moderate mental or physical disabilities, health or anxiety issues; such as learning needs, low self esteem, Autism, Aspergers etc.
Starting Thursday 19 November 2009 from 7.00 to 9.30pm.
Please click here for information. |
|
23 Oct
2009 |
Meeting of Hampshire Autism Support Groups
We recently represented our branch at a meeting of organisers of autism support groups from across the county.
It was good to meet up with the other NAS branches and independent groups.
We hope this will become a regular event where we can exchange views and, as a group, be a strong voice for those affected by autism in the county.
The meeting was a joint initiative between the National Autistic Society and Hampshire Autistic Society. |
|
22 Oct
2009 |
Autism Bill success
Today we have made legal history!
The Autism Bill has made it through its last parliamentary stage, and will now become the Autism Act 2009: the first ever disability-specific law for England.
The Act will guarantee a future Adult Autism Strategy that will introduce a range of duties to improve local services.
For more information visit the NAS website at www.autism.org.uk/autismact2009.
Many thanks to everyone from the South Hampshire Branch who campaigned throughout the year, with NAS members throughout the UK, to make this happen.
The NAS will of course continue to campaign until the strategy makes a real difference to people affected by autism. |
|
13 Oct
2009 |
Launch of new NAS campaign on employment and benefits
Today in the Houses of Parliament, the NAS launched their new national campaign, which aims to ensure that people with autism are supported financially if they cannot work, and are able to access the right support if seeking employment.
Our branch were represented at the launch.
Please email your MP now and ask them to support the campaign to help us change things for adults with autism. The more people who write to their MPs, which can be done easily on the website below, the more likely we are to succeed in changing things for the better, so please take a few minutes and contact them now.
Please visit www.dontwritemeoff.org.uk/ to find out more. |
|
31 Aug
2009 |
Support for students with autism
The NAS offer support to students with autism (including Asperger syndrome) who are in further and higher education, as well as training for tutors and other staff.
If you're receiving Disabled Students' Allowance, all the support can be funded through this.
For more information, visit www.autism.org.uk/studentsupport. |
|
11 Jul
2009 |
New information on our website
Following on from the talk we gave at the Open Doors event on 10 July, we have produced some new information leaflets which cover a number of areas we talked about, in more detail.
These can be accessed from the Support page of our site, or in hard copy format from us. They cover:
- Transition
- Guidelines for teaching and caring
- Girls and Asperger syndrome
- Suggested things to find out about during school/college visits
We have also included two Word templates that can be customised.
- Customisable Word template for a child's personal guide to autism/Asperger syndrome
- Customisable Word template for college visit notes
The National Autistic Society also produce numerous excellent information sheets on their website. |
|
1 May
2009 |
Family Days Out
The National Autistic Society offers advice on choosing activities and planning ahead in its fact sheet ‘Families: ideas for days out’.
See it online by visiting the NAS website or call the NAS helpline on 0845 070 4004 to request a hard copy. |
|
1 Nov
2008 |
The Transporters DVD
Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, Director of the Autism Research Centre ARC) at Cambridge University and David Lammy, Culture Minister, launched a novel animation DVD to help young children with autism earlier in the year. It has now been re-released.
The Transporters DVD aims to help children with autism to look at the human face and to learn about emotions. The DVD is aimed at children from two to eight years.
Click here for full details. We have some copies available at out Parent Support Group meetings and Family Youth Club. |
|
23 Oct
2008 |
We are now the South Hampshire Branch
Our membership has increased considerably to well over 100 families and, as it now covers a much wider area than just Eastleigh and Winchester, we have decided to change our name to reflect this.
At a special re-launch event on Thursday 23 October 2008, over 100 parents/carers, individuals with autism, councillors, health and social care professionals met to help raise the profile of the needs of people with autism. Speakers at the event were:
- Dr Sarah Nicholson, Child Psychiatrist, Southampton Autism Assessment Service
- Dr Tony Brown, Autism Diagnostic Research Centre, Southampton
- Robert Pritchett, The National Autistic Society's Regional Director, London & South East Region
- Councillor Roy Perry, Deputy Leader, Hampshire County Council
- Mark Houston, an adult with Asperger syndrome who gave a particularly inspiring talk.
We were also delighted to be able to announce that the Asperger Support & Social Group based in Sholing, Southampton, are joining forces with us to become part of the South Hampshire Branch. This now gives us the opportunity to extend our support to children, young people and adults with autism. |
|
1 Sep
2008 |
Make School Make Sense
The National Autistic Society's make school make sense education campaign was launched in 2006 and aims to improve educational provision for children with autism, so that every child can get the education they deserve.
Click here to find out more. |
|
| |
|