Photo of new minibus

MAIN are proud to share our new MINIBUS

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MAIN are proud to share our new MINIBUS

 

We’re excited to announce that MAIN has a brand new minibus, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!  Thanks to the incredible support of Awards for All, the National Lottery Fund, and our fantastic community, this new vehicle will make a world of difference to the people we support.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Trust Ford, whose kindness and generosity made this possible. Their contribution means we can continue providing vital transport services to those who rely on us. A special thank you also goes to Mick from The Procurement Partnership (TPPL) for helping to connect all the dots and making this a reality.

The feedback from our children has been awesome! They’re absolutely loving the new minibus, and we’re hearing how much they enjoy the comfortable rides and the exciting features, such as above head storage racks and WIFI connectivity.

This minibus isn’t just a new vehicle—it’s a symbol of the power of community, collaboration, and the impact of generous donations. Whether it’s helping our young people attend events, access services, or simply enjoy a day out, this new addition is going to make a huge difference.

Thank you to everyone who made this happen. We’re looking forwards, to the many journeys ahead!

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

#autismmatters

#neurodiversitymatters

 

To find out more about MAIN and our services please contact us here 

Aerial Picture of MAIN

Welcome to MAIN

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Welcome to MAIN

Hello and welcome to MAIN, a Charity based in the heart of North Ormesby, dedicated to making a real difference. At MAIN, our mission is to empower our neurodiverse community, support and encourage our learning disabled community and provide a strong sense of belonging. Whether you are visiting us for the first time, a long-time supporter, or a curious observer, we want to give you a closer look at what makes us unique.

Today, we’re excited to offer you a special aerial view of our centre and take you on a virtual walk around the premises to showcase the heart and soul of what we do.

An Aerial View:  The Heart of Our Community

One of the most incredible ways to appreciate our centre is by seeing it from above. Our Charity’s building is not just a physical space—it’s a reflection of our values, of openness, and of a welcoming environment.  From an aerial view, you’ll notice the spacious layout, with large outdoor areas that invite interaction and movement. We’ve designed every inch of the building and its surroundings with our community in mind, ensuring that it feels like a safe, uplifting and happy space for everyone.

As you zoom in on the aerial shot, you’ll see how each section of the centre is interconnected. From our support service areas, to the creative activity rooms and even the quiet spaces for reflection, every part of the centre has been built to encourage connection, creativity, and personal growth.

We hope that by sharing this unique view, you’ll get a sense of how MAIN is more than just a place—it’s a community where relationships are developed and flourish.

A Walk Around the Centre: Where Change Happens

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll find inside our centre, step by step. Our building is designed to be both functional and inviting, creating an atmosphere where our community feels valued and supported.

1. Welcome and Reception Area
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by our friendly reception team who are always ready to assist with any queries.  This is the first space where you’ll feel the warmth of our community, with clear signage to guide you through our offerings and activities.

2. Pathways to Independence
Our dedicated space. provides practical and emotional learning to our young people and adults, providing personal guidance, mentorship, and practical assistance. Whether it’s job training, financial advice, or personal development, our rooms are designed to provide a peaceful and encouraging safe space.

3. Creative and Activity Spaces
One of the cornerstones of MAIN is fostering creativity and learning. Our spacious, well-lit activity room is used for our After School Clubs, Social Groups and 1:1 P.A. support. It’s in these rooms that participants get to explore new hobbies, try out new skills, and engage in group activities that boost confidence and strengthen social bonds.

4. Quiet Reflection Spaces
Understanding the importance of mental health, we have dedicated areas within the centre for quiet reflection and relaxation. These spaces allow individuals to take a time out to help self – regulate.

5. Outdoor Areas and Green Spaces
The grounds surrounding our building are just as important as the interior. With well-maintained gardens, walking paths, seating areas and outdoor play, our outdoor spaces provide a tranquil retreat for all who visit. Whether it’s for water play or climbing frames our outdoor space offers the perfect environment to connect with nature and others, build friendships and learn to share.

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

To find out more about MAIN and our services please contact us here 

photo of showstoppers group with handmade cards

Showstoppers Spread Love and Joy at the Care Home

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Showstoppers Spread Love and Joy at the Care Home

Over the past couple of weeks, the Showstoppers have been hard at work practicing a dance to “Love Is All I Can Give to You” and a song to “Dancing Queen” in preparation for their performance at the care home. Their dedication and enthusiasm truly shone through during their visit.

In addition to their performances, the Showstoppers made heartfelt Valentine’s cards with personalized messages for the residents and staff. The entire group did an amazing job, displaying confidence and warmth as they greeted everyone with cuddles and conversations. They were respectful and kind to all the staff, making the visit even more special.

A highlight of the visit was reconnecting with their favourite resident, Carol, from their last visit. The Showstoppers made an extra effort to chat with her and see how she’s been, which brought smiles all around.

To say we are proud of the Showstoppers is an understatement. Their hard work and kindness have made a significant impact, and to celebrate their achievements, we will be having a movie night and takeaway next week to show them just how amazing they are.

Stay tuned for more updates on our wonderful Showstoppers and their inspiring activities!

 

 For more information about our Showstoppers group please look here
Poster for ADHD Session with Becca Brighty- 5th February 12 on teams- Please contact to book

MAIN are hosting a virtual session on ADHD

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The ADHD Formula – by Guest Speaker – Becca Brighty

We are delighted to be joined by Becca Brighty who will be delivering a talk on ADHD and Understanding the ADHD brain on 5th February at 12. This will be on Teams.

Poster for ADHD Session with Becca Brighty- 5th February 12 on teams- Please contact to book

 

Hi, I am Becca Brighty, founder of ADHD Impact, Business Psychologist and ADHD coach. I was diagnosed with ADHD in May 2022. Since then, I have used the skills my professional training has given me to learn as much about ADHD as possible and apply that knowledge to how I work.

Learning about my brain has completely changed my life. For the first time ever I am truly working toward achieving my potential, work feels easy, I am no longer constantly exhausted and after a lifetime of career frustration and disappointment it’s the most exciting, incredible feeling.

Please email to book on here

You can find out more about Becca Brighty and ADHD Impact on their website here

main event poster

Join us for our Grand Opening

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Join us for our Grand Opening

Join Us for the Grand Opening of the Pathway to Independence Centre!

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our Pathway to Independence Centre on 14th February 2025. This special day marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we would love for you to be a part of it.

We warmly invite all families, clients, professionals, and supporters to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion. The event will feature inspiring speeches, delightful refreshments, and a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Event Details:

  • Date: 14th February 2025
  • Time: 10am
  • Location: MAIN, The Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6EN

Come and be a part of this wonderful celebration. Your presence will make the day even more special as we embark on this new chapter together.

We look forward to seeing you there!

main event poster

Please email to book on at mainadminsupport@iammain.org.uk

Thumbnail with poster for event

Come see us- MAIN’s Open Day

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Join Us for Our Open Day at MAIN!

We are excited to invite professionals and parent/carers to our Open Day! This is a fantastic opportunity to look around our building, meet our dedicated staff, and see first hand the amazing work we have been doing at MAIN.

During the Open Day, you’ll learn about our current projects and get a sneak peek at our future plans. We are also eager to hear your feedback on any gaps in the area that MAIN may be able to support. Your insights are invaluable to us as we strive to better serve the community.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, 13th December 2024
  • Location: MAIN, The Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6EN (Parking on site)

Schedule:

  • Professionals:
    • Meet and Greet: 10:00am – 10:30am
    • Presentation about MAIN and our services: 10:30am – 11:00am
    • Networking and Tour around our Centre: 11:00am – 11:15am
  • Parent and Carers:
    • Meet and Greet: 11:15am – 12:15pm
    • Presentation about MAIN and our services: 12:15pm – 1:15pm
    • Tour around our Centre: 1:15pm onwards

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing our vision for the future. Together, we can make a difference!

 

Please contact us to book on

Christmas Fayre poster

Fundraising at MAIN: Our Christmas Fayre

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We are holding a Christmas Fayre- Come and join us

MAIN will be holding a Christmas Fayre on 23rd November at 2pm-4pm at MAIN, The Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6EN

Free entry- We will have refreshments, tombola, our shop stall, lollipop lucky dip and more

Let’s get into the Christmas spirit – all money raised will go towards our renovations in our centre

Mayor, Chris Cooke with CEO Heather Whyman in soft play setting
Visit from Chris Cooke- Middlesbrough Mayor
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MAIN had the pleasure of inviting Chris Cooke, Mayor of Middlesbrough, to our centre

‘Last week I had the pleasure of visiting MAIN’s centre in North Ormesby, which is undergoing an exciting renovation to expand the services they provide for individuals with Autism. It was inspiring to meet CEO Heather Whyman, the dedicated staff, trustee Debbie Sullivan, and one of their valued members, Kieran.

Their motto, ‘Together Raising Smiles’, couldn’t be a better description of the support on offer

MAIN’s mission is all about empowering individuals and families living with Autism, and this renovation will help them do even more. This centre will be a safe, supportive space where young people can continue to develop life skills, rather than falling through the gaps in support provision as they transition to adulthood.

Heather Whyman, CEO said ‘It was so lovely to welcome Chris and Ben to MAIN last week and to spend some time discussing our current and future plans; MAIN are in the process of seeing our new ‘Pathways to Independence Centre’ opened by the end of this year, which will offer practical and educational support in a safe and secure environment for our young people to develop additional life-skills.’

It was clear from talking to Heather and the team that their passion and experience make a real difference in the lives of those they support. They know first hand the challenges that come with Autism, but they also know how to empower others to overcome them, always offering advice, workshops, and community connections. A huge thank you to MAIN for all the incredible work they do in Middlesbrough, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact of their new centre once it opens later this year!’

 

This is a post from Chris Cooke