Every child deserves the best possible education — SEND reform must help make that a reality.

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Response to the Government’s SEND Reform Announcement

The Government published its long-awaited reforms to the SEND system. As a local charity supporting autistic, neurodiverse and learning disabled children and their families, MAIN recognises that change can bring both opportunity and uncertainty.

For many of the families we work alongside, uncertainty is not a small matter. Our parents and carers are already exhausted, navigating complex systems, advocating tirelessly for their children, and often fighting prolonged battles simply to secure the support that is legally required. Any proposed changes to the SEND framework will understandably increase anxiety for families who are already stretched beyond capacity.

We urge policymakers to carefully consider their audience before implementing reforms. Behind every policy decision are real children and real families who depend on stability, clarity and trust in the system designed to support them.

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are not a luxury. They are not an optional extra. They are a legal entitlement, a statutory protection that ensures children and young people with additional needs receive the support necessary to access education safely, meaningfully and equitably.

Our children deserve the best possible education, one that recognises their strengths, meets their needs, and enables them to thrive. Their families deserve to be heard, respected, and meaningfully involved in any changes that affect them.

We call on the Government to:

Engage openly and transparently with families and frontline organisations.

Protect the legal rights and statutory protections currently afforded to children and young people with SEND.

Ensure that reforms strengthen, not weaken, accountability and access to support.

Prioritise early intervention and adequately funded services so families are not left in crisis.

Change must not come at the cost of children’s rights or families’ wellbeing. We stand ready to work constructively with decision-makers to ensure reforms deliver genuine improvement rather than additional barriers.

Our families deserve certainty.
Our children deserve opportunity.
Their rights must remain protected.

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Random Acts of Kindness Day – 17th February 2026

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✨ Random Acts of Kindness Day – 17 February ✨

At MAIN, kindness is at the heart of everything we do. Supporting autistic, neurodivergent and learning-disabled children and adults from the age of 5 into adulthood has shown us just how powerful kindness can be, especially when it’s given with understanding, patience and acceptance.

Random Acts of Kindness Day is a reminder that small actions really do matter. A smile, a listening ear, a few kind words, or taking time to understand someone’s world can make a huge difference. Not just to the person receiving it, but to ourselves too. Being kind helps us feel happier, more connected, and reminds us to be gentler with ourselves as well.

An act of kindness doesn’t have to be big or complicated. Sometimes the smallest gestures create the biggest impact.

So today, let’s celebrate kindness in all its forms. Do something kind for someone else, it’s easy, it’s free, and it can brighten a day more than you realise 💙

#RandomActsOfKindnessDay #KindnessMatters #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #MAINCharity #TogetherRaisingSmiles

we are hiring pa and outreach workers

Facilitator Opportunities at MAIN

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🌟 We’re Hiring Facilitators – Join MAIN! 🌟

Do you want a job where you truly make a difference?

MAIN is recruiting Facilitators to support autistic and neurodivergent children, young people and adults across our clubs, holiday programmes and community sessions.

You’ll deliver fun, structured and person-centred activities that build:

✔ Confidence
✔ Friendships
✔ Emotional wellbeing
✔ Independence

We’re looking for compassionate, creative team players who understand autism and enjoy working with people. A Level 2/3 qualification in Childcare or Health & Social Care (or relevant experience) is desirable.

✨ Full training provided, including Autism Awareness, Team Teach and accredited qualifications.

At MAIN, success is measured in smiles, confidence and belonging.

👉 To apply, complete the online form or email – info@iammain.org.uk

#JoinOurTeam #TeessideJobs #AutismSupport #TogetherRaisingSmiles 💛

Thank you, to Cash for Kids – Hits Radio

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We would like to say a huge thank you to Cash for Kids, Bauer Group, Hits Radio, and our incredible community for their generosity, supporting good causes across the North East.

We are truly blessed and deeply thankful for your kindness. The toys and gifts provided will bring so much joy, comfort, and positive sensory experiences to our children, many of whom are autistic, neurodiverse, have learning disabilities, and/or complex needs.

We specifically requested sensory and fidget toys, and Hits Radio delivered beyond expectations. These items will help our children feel calm, supported, engaged, and included, while also providing enjoyment and meaningful play.

The smiles, excitement, and appreciation from our children say it all.

Your generosity will make a lasting difference, and we cannot thank you enough 💙

Thank you, Celestial Windows Middlesbrough

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A Massive THANK YOU 💙

We would like to send our heartfelt thanks to Thomas’s mum and family.

Grandad Alan, who owns Celestial Windows, in Middlesbrough have again shown their generosity, by donating lots of toys, arts and crafts sets, and baking ingredients that will bring so much joy to our children and young people,, especially as we head into the Christmas holiday season.

MAIN is incredibly blessed to have such strong and caring support from our community. Thomas, who attends MAIN, is part of a loving and supportive family who continually go above and beyond to help ensure our spaces remain happy, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone. Their kindness and thoughtfulness never go unnoticed.

This is not the first time Celestial Windows have stepped up for MAIN. Earlier this year, when our hosepipe and mounting were stolen, Alan (Grandad) immediately sprang into action, arranging for one of his staff members to come over with a replacement, no hesitation, just genuine care and community spirit.

Now, as Christmas approaches, we are overwhelmed by the generosity shown once again. The toys and resources donated will help us create magical moments, spark creativity, and ensure our children and young people can enjoy festive activities together in a safe and nurturing environment.

Support like this truly highlights the power of local people supporting local causes. It is partnerships and kindness like this that allow MAIN to continue raising smiles, building confidence, and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.

From all of us at MAIN, thank you for your continued support, generosity, and belief in what we do. You are helping us make a real difference, and for that, we are deeply grateful. 💙

MAIN need a Quiet Space

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Help Us Build a Lifeline — MAIN’s Quiet Room Is Within Reach

At MAIN, we see every day how powerful the right environment can be for a child or young person in crisis. For some, a moment of overwhelm can feel like a storm they can’t escape. What they need isn’t punishment or restraint, they need calm. They need safety. They need a space designed with their needs, not their behaviours, at the centre.

And right now, we’re closer than ever to making that space a reality.

Over the last few months, individuals, families, local businesses and community partners have blown us away with their generosity. From sponsored walks (including staff dressed-up as old ladies!) to young Henry’s inspiring fundraising journey, every single person has helped us take huge steps toward creating our purpose-built Quiet Room — a safe, padded, sensory-considerate space where autistic, neurodivergent and learning-disabled young people can regulate without risk of harm.

We’ve raised an incredible £19,485 so far.

But to complete the essential preparatory work,  the builder stage that must be done before installation, we still need £20,000.

With padded Duratex walls, a calming digital skylight and specialist equipment including a donated Doodle Pod from UK Pods, this Quiet Room will transform lives. It will prevent crisis from becoming chaos. It will help young people find peace in their hardest moments. And it will give families, staff and the wider community a space that supports emotional safety and wellbeing.

This Christmas, we’re asking local businesses and supporters to stand with us.

If you or your organisation is choosing a cause to support this year, please consider helping us finish the Quiet Room. Your donation isn’t just funding a room — it’s giving children and young people the dignity, calm and compassion they deserve.

To donate – please follow the link on our website.

Below is the full news article as published, and we are so proud to share the incredible support that’s helping us turn this dream into a much-needed reality.

read full article here

MAIN Chat Logo Icon

Chat MAIN – Online Support Group

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Introducing Our New Online Support Group for Autistic Adults: Chat MAIN

We’re excited to announce the launch of Chat MAIN – a brand new, friendly and supportive online group for autistic and neurodiverse adults, starting on the 29th October 2025.

Chat MAIN is a space to connect, share experiences, and build friendships in a relaxed, understanding environment. Whether you’re looking to meet others with similar experiences, find a sense of community, or simply enjoy a friendly chat, this group is for you.

Chat MAIN Logo

What is Chat MAIN?

Chat MAIN is an informal, online meet-up group designed specifically for autistic adults. We know that navigating adulthood with autism or other neurodivergent experiences can sometimes feel isolating. That’s why this group offers a safe and welcoming space to talk, listen, and feel supported.

The group will be hosted by friendly MAIN team members who understand the importance of creating a calm and respectful atmosphere. You can choose how much (or how little) you want to join in, there’s no pressure to talk if you’d prefer just to listen.

Who is it for?

This group is open to autistic adults who would like to connect with others in a similar situation. Whether you’ve recently had a diagnosis or have been navigating neurodiversity for years, you’re very welcome.

When and Where?

Chat MAIN will run online, so you can join us from the comfort of your own home. The first session takes place on:

Wednesday 29th October 2025


We’ll share full details with everyone who signs up.

Interested in joining?

We’d love to hear from you. If you’re interested in being part of Chat MAIN, please email us at:

info@iammain.org.uk

Spaces may be limited, so we encourage you to get in touch as soon as possible.

About MAIN

MAIN is a registered charity supporting autistic, neurodiverse, learning-disabled and/or people with complex needs, from age 5 into adulthood. We provide tailored services, guidance, and opportunities that make a real difference to individuals and their families. Chat MAIN is just one of the many ways we’re working to reduce isolation, build confidence, and support the neurodiverse community.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Chat MAIN!

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Paracetamol not linked to AUTISM diagnosis

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Paracetamol and Autism: What Does the Evidence Really Say?

Recent headlines have reignited public concern over claims linking paracetamol use during pregnancy to autism in children. As a charity supporting autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled, and/or complex needs children and young adults, we know how distressing these claims can be for families and carers.

We were recently invited to speak on Hits Radio to respond to these concerns and here, we want to share a clear, evidence-based summary of what’s really known.

Where did this claim come from?

The renewed concern began after a political statement in the U.S. linked the use of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen or Tylenol) during pregnancy to autism. Media reports quickly followed, and confusion spread online and among families.

Understandably, many parents are worried. But it’s crucial to separate scientific evidence from speculation.

What does the research say?

Some earlier studies suggested a possible association between prenatal paracetamol use and autism or ADHD. However, these studies often had important limitations, such as relying on parents’ memory, lacking accurate dose or timing data, and failing to rule out other influencing factors (like genetics or the reasons why the medication was taken).

A major Swedish study published in 2024, involving over 2.4 million children, used more rigorous methods and found no evidence that paracetamol use in pregnancy causes autism, ADHD, or intellectual disability. This is currently one of the largest and most reliable studies on the topic.

Leading organisations including the World Health Organization (WHO), UK health authorities, and autism charities have stated that there is no conclusive evidence of a causal link.

Why do these claims matter?

Claims like this can:

  • Place unfair blame on mothers and pregnant people, leading to unnecessary guilt or shame.

  • Stigmatise autistic people by framing autism as something caused by a “mistake.”

  • Undermine trust in healthcare guidance, especially when managing pain, fever, or illness during pregnancy.

  • Distract from urgent priorities, such as better autism support, diagnosis, and inclusion.

We believe it’s vital to challenge narratives that promote fear over facts.

Our advice

If you are pregnant or planning a family, always follow advice from your GP or midwife. Paracetamol remains one of the safest options for pain relief in pregnancy when used as directed.

To our families and community: autism is not caused by parenting choices. The causes of neurodevelopmental conditions are complex and not fully understood, but what matters most is how we support autistic individuals to thrive.

We’re here for you

At MAIN, we’re committed to sharing trustworthy, accessible information. If you have questions or want to talk more about this topic, please get in touch.

Together, let’s stand up for truth, compassion, and inclusion.

Henry

Thank You, Henry – for Being a Star in Our Fundraising Challenge

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At MAIN, we believe that every child and young person should have access to a space where they feel safe, calm, and truly understood.

That’s why we’re raising funds to create a Quiet Room, a peaceful sanctuary for those moments when the world becomes overwhelming.

But turning this vision into reality takes incredible people. That’s where Henry comes in.

Henry is more than just a fundraiser, he’s an inspiration. As a young autistic person who attends our Thursday Afterschool Club, Henry understands just how important it is to have a space to re-regulate, to breathe, and to feel secure. And now, he’s doing something extraordinary to help others find that same sense of calm.

His energy, compassion, and determination are helping us move closer to building the Quiet Room, one step, one donation, one moment at a time.

Henry, we can’t thank you enough.
Thank you for your kindness.
Thank you for using your voice to speak up for others.
Thank you for showing everyone what true community and courage look like.

With your help, we’re creating more than a room, we’re creating possibility. A space where anxiety can ease, senses can settle, and young people can find the calm they need.

To everyone reading:
Let’s rally behind Henry. Let’s support his incredible efforts and bring this Quiet Room to life. Every donation, every share, every show of support makes a real difference.

Please donate to Henry’s #GoFundMePage

Let’s make this happen, for Henry, for our children and young people, and for a future that embraces every individual with understanding and care.

With heartfelt gratitude,
The MAIN Team.

Henry

Read more about MAIN’s mission to raise funds for the new Quiet Room

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Urgent funds needed for ‘vital’ safe space in Middlesbrough

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Urgent funds needed for ‘vital’ safe space in Middlesbrough

It will be a quiet room for children in heightened emotional states

People in Teesside are being urged to help create a safe quiet space for children in heightened emotional states.

Middlesbrough-based charity MAIN, which supports children and adults who are autistic, neurodivergent, have a learning disability or complex needs, urgently needs £25,000 to build the room.

 

Read the full article on the Hits Radio website

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Author: Karen Liu. Photo ©Dawn McNamara.