St Mary’s Cathedral, St Clare’s and St Francis supporting MAIN

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“Honoured to Be Chosen as a Charity of the Year 💙”

We’re incredibly grateful to share some wonderful news with our community 💙

MAIN has been chosen as one of the charities of the year by the Justice & Peace Group across the three parishes of St Mary’s Cathedral, St Clare’s Brookfield, and St Francis, Acklam.

After attending the recent meeting, we were truly touched by the warmth, kindness, and genuine care shown by everyone we met. It’s clear that these parish communities are built on compassion and a real desire to make a difference, and we feel so honoured to be part of that.

Thanks to the generosity of parishioners across all three churches, regular collections will be kindly donated to support our work over the next 12 months. This support will make a meaningful difference to the children, young people, and families we work with every day.

We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the Justice & Peace Group, and everyone across the three parishes for choosing MAIN and believing in what we do. Your support truly means the world to us.

We’re really looking forward to building this relationship over the coming year and hopefully welcoming you to visit us soon.

#togetherraisingsmiles

 

 

we are hiring pa and outreach workers

Join MAIN be part of something AMAZING

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Join MAIN: Make a Real Difference Every Day

Are you looking for a role where your work truly matters? At MAIN, we’re always looking for passionate, dedicated people to join our growing team, whether that’s in a paid position or as a valued member of our volunteer bureau.

MAIN supports children and young people from the age of 5 through to adulthood, delivering services at our Middlesbrough centre and out in the community. We work closely with families and carers to achieve the best possible outcomes, focusing on building life skills, confidence, and independence, while always keeping happiness at the heart of everything we do.

Our work spans a wide range of support, including autism, neurodiversity, learning disabilities, and complex needs. We offer short breaks, alternative education provision, adult day services, transition support into adulthood, and even online chat groups, creating a safe, supportive environment for everyone we work with.

There are many ways to get involved. You might work directly with children and young people, helping them grow and thrive. Or you could support behind the scenes in areas like administration, finance, marketing, or social media, each role playing a vital part in making our services possible.

By joining MAIN, you’re not just taking on a role, you’re becoming part of a community that is committed, compassionate, and driven to make a difference every single day.

If you want to be part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.

To apply, please visit our website at www.iammain.org.uk or email info@iammain.org.uk to request an application form.

#togetherraisingsmiles

 

 

Exciting Updates at MAIN

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Exciting Updates at MAIN

There’s lots happening at MAIN as we continue to develop and improve our space for the autistic, neurodivergent and learning disabled community.

We are excited to share that our sunken trampoline has been delivered and will be installed on 22nd April, creating a safe and sensory-friendly space for movement, regulation, and fun.

Alongside this, our boiler replacements are underway, helping us improve comfort, reliability, and energy efficiency across the building.

Our community garden and allotment area is also taking shape, becoming a calm and welcoming outdoor space where people can connect with nature, learn new skills, and take part in meaningful activities.

We are incredibly proud of the progress being made and grateful for all the support we continue to receive. Every improvement helps us create a more inclusive, accessible, and engaging environment for everyone at MAIN.

#togetherraisingsmiles

 

 

Resilience Fund at its BEST

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This month marks an exciting and meaningful milestone for MAIN as we take a significant step forward in improving our facilities and reducing our environmental impact. We are proud to share that new solar panels and energy-efficient boilers are currently being installed across our site, an investment that will benefit both our community and the planet for years to come.

This progress has been made possible through the Resilience Fund, and we are incredibly grateful for the generous support we have received. A very big thank you goes to SIB and Groundworks for believing in our vision and helping make these vital upgrades a reality.

Through this funding, MAIN has been fortunate to secure 40% of the total project costs as a grant, along with access to a 10-year repayment plan at a fixed interest rate of 8.5%. This opportunity allows us to move forward sustainably without compromising the quality of support we provide to the individuals and families who rely on our services.

For those who may not know us, MAIN supports children and young people from the age of 5 through to adulthood who are autistic, neurodiverse, have learning disabilities, and/or complex needs. Every improvement we make to our facilities directly enhances the environment we offer—creating safer, more comfortable, and more inclusive spaces where individuals can thrive.

By investing in renewable energy and more efficient systems, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also ensuring that more of our resources can be directed toward what truly matters: supporting our community.

We are incredibly proud of this step forward and deeply thankful to everyone who has made it possible. To learn more about our work and the impact we strive to make every day, please visit www.iammain.org.uk.

Together, we are building a brighter, more sustainable future.

#togetherraisingsmiles

 

Teesside Family Foundation Short List – Please Vote for MAIN

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Help Us Bring £25,000 to MAIN – Your Vote Can Change Lives

We’re incredibly proud to share that MAIN has been shortlisted for the £25,000 “Together for Teesside” giveaway, run by the Teesside Family Foundation 💙

This amazing initiative supports local charities making a real difference across Teesside, and now, thanks to you, we’re in with a chance of securing vital funding.

But we need your help.

💙 Why This Matters

At MAIN, we support neurodiverse children, young people, and their families across Teesside. Every day, we see the difference the right environment and support can make.

Right now, we’re working to create more safe spaces in our purpose built building alongside developing our Alternate Education offer, as we know first hand how difficult some of our children find a school environment whether that is a SEND provision or mainstream.

🏆 About the £25,000 Giveaway

The “Together for Teesside” campaign is all about celebrating and supporting local causes. After public nominations, shortlisted organisations (like us!) rely on community votes to move forward.

The top charities will go on to a live final, and every finalist receives a share of the £25,000 fund.

So every single vote really does count.

🙌 How You Can Help

It’s simple—and it takes less than a minute:

👉 Vote for MAIN
(9) Facebook

(If the link doesn’t open directly, head to our social pages where you’ll find the voting link pinned!)

💬 Every Vote = Real Impact

By voting for MAIN, you’re helping us:

  • Create safe spaces for vulnerable children
  • Support families across Teesside
  • Continue delivering vital services to those who need them most

This is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity to bring meaningful change to our community.

💙 Let’s Do This Together

If you’ve ever supported MAIN, worked with us, or believe in what we do, please take a moment to vote—and share this with your friends, family, and colleagues.

Together, we can make this happen.

#TogetherForTeesside #VoteMAIN #CommunitySupport #MakingADifference

ATF Supplies Logo

A Heartfelt Thank You to ATF Supplies

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A Heartfelt Thank You to ATF Supplies

At MAIN, we are privileged to work with incredible partners who go above and beyond to support our community. Over the past year, ATF Supplies, John, Marc, Emily, and the entire team, have shown exceptional care, compassion, and generosity, and we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt thanks.

From the very beginning, ATF Supplies demonstrated a clear understanding of the needs of our autistic, neurodiverse, and learning disability community. Their practical support has been invaluable. They supplied the ironmongery free of charge, assisted with our fob entry system, and even allowed flexibility in repayment. This generosity eased financial pressures at a critical time and ensured that our services continued uninterrupted.

Beyond the practical support, it has been their kindness, care, and ongoing willingness to help that has touched us all. The commitment of John, Marc, Emily, and the team made this project possible, and their contribution has had a lasting, meaningful impact on the people we support.

Thanks to ATF Supplies, we are one step closer to our vision of greater independence and opportunity for all. We are proud to have worked alongside them and deeply grateful for everything they have done for MAIN and our community.

From Heather, our trustees, staff, and the people we support—thank you. Your generosity and commitment mean the world to us.

JPS Logo

When Amazing People Make a Lasting Difference

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A Heartfelt Thank You to James Paul Services Ltd

At MAIN, we believe that meaningful partnerships are at the heart of everything we do. Over the past year, we have had the privilege of working alongside James Paul Services Ltd (JPS Ltd), and we would like to take a moment to recognise and celebrate the incredible support they have provided.

From the very beginning, Gary, Kev, and the entire JPS team approached the development of our Pathways to Independence project with professionalism, care, and a genuine understanding of the needs of the autistic, neurodiverse, and learning disability community we serve. Their commitment to getting it right was evident at every stage.

The quality of their workmanship has been exceptional. Together, we have created a space that is not only practical and functional, but also welcoming, safe, and truly fit for purpose, an environment that will make a lasting difference to the people we support.

What has made this partnership even more remarkable is the compassion and flexibility shown by JPS Ltd. By allowing us to spread the cost of the project over the course of a year, they significantly eased financial pressures on our charity. This generosity meant we could continue delivering vital services without disruption while bringing this important vision to life.

It is no exaggeration to say that this project would not have been possible without the dedication, kindness, and unwavering support of Gary, Kev, and the entire JPS team. Their contribution has already had a profound and lasting impact, helping us move closer to our vision of greater independence and opportunity for all.

We are incredibly proud to have worked in partnership with JPS Ltd and are deeply grateful for everything they have done for MAIN and our community.

From Heather, our trustees, staff, and the people we support—thank you. Your kindness and commitment mean more than words can fully express.

#Togetherraisingsmiles

Image of child happy using a laptop

Keeping Children & Young People Safe Online: Important Safeguarding Update

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Keeping Children & Young People Safe Online: Important Safeguarding Update

As a neurodiverse charity supporting children, young people and families, online safety is always a priority for us. The internet can be an amazing space for learning, interests, community and creativity — but it can also present risks, especially for autistic, ADHD, anxious or otherwise vulnerable young people.

We have recently received a safeguarding alert from NHS/Government services regarding online activity that may place children and young people at risk. Below is a summary to help parents, carers and professionals stay informed and proactive.

⚠️ Safeguarding Alert – Summary

A national safeguarding alert has been shared relating to concerning online behaviour involving two young adults, who may be encouraging self-harm among vulnerable children and young people connected to mental health services.

Key points to be aware of:

  • One individual is using TikTok (approx. 3,000 followers) to engage with vulnerable young people.
  • There are known links to young people in mental health wards in Essex.
  • Essex Police, local authorities and NHS partners are actively monitoring the situation.
  • A multi-agency safeguarding meeting has already taken place.

Although this activity is currently linked to a specific geographical area, online content spreads quickly — so all parents, carers and professionals should remain vigilant.

🌐 Supporting Neurodiverse Children & Young People Online

Many autistic and neurodiverse young people:

✔ find online communities easier than face-to-face interactions
✔ can be more trusting of others’ intentions
✔ may struggle to identify manipulation or unsafe behaviour
✔ can feel pressure to respond quickly or please others
✔ may be highly influenced by online content due to hyperfocus or emotional vulnerability

This means they can be more at risk of exploitation, grooming or harmful online challenges.

👨‍👩‍👧 Guidance for Parents & Carers

Here are some practical steps to help keep children and young people safe:

1. Talk openly about online activity

Create a safe space for them to share what they’re watching, who they follow, and what interests them.

2. Keep an eye on their platforms

Particularly TikTok, Instagram, Discord, private messaging apps, gaming chats and YouTube shorts.

3. Encourage them to check in with you

Teach them to pause and ask for help if something feels worrying, confusing or upsetting.

4. Remind them that not everyone online is who they say they are

Explain in simple, neurodiversity‑friendly language.

5. Review privacy settings together

Make accounts private, turn off geolocation, and restrict who can comment/message.

6. Encourage healthy routines

Help create a balance between online and real‑world activities.

7. If they see self-harm or harmful content

Tell them it’s not their responsibility to help the person — they should always tell a trusted adult.

🌈 A Warm, Safe Environment — Online and Offline

At MAIN, we are committed to:

  • promoting a friendly, warm, and positive environment
  • supporting families with honest, accessible advice
  • working with our values in mind across all services
  • ensuring confidentiality and professionalism at all times
  • collecting feedback from parents, carers and young people to improve our support

If you ever have concerns about a child’s online activity, please speak to us — we are here to help.

🔗 Helpful Websites & Resources

Below are trusted, reputable sources offering guidance for families, schools and professionals:

NSPCC – Keeping Children Safe Online

UK Government – Support to Keep Children Safe Online

BBC – Internet Safety Resources for Children & Teachers

 

📬 Need Advice or Support?

If you are worried about a child or young person’s online activity, behaviour or emotional wellbeing, please contact our team for support.

Together, we can help create a safer, kinder online world for neurodiverse children and young people.

Picture of man with speech bubble

MAIN Youth Panel

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We need your help!

At MAIN, we are committed to a neuroinclusive approach, and we are creating a Youth Panel to help shape future projects and ensure the support we offer truly reflects the needs of the young people we work with.

We are looking for individuals aged 13–25 years who would be happy to volunteer and share their voice, give feedback, and help us decide where MAIN should focus its support.

If you are interested, please contact us at:
📧 info@iammain.org.uk
📞 01642 608012

We will get in touch to arrange an introductory meeting.

Thank you for helping us make MAIN the best it can be for neurodivergent young people.

Everyone is welcome – we look forward to meeting you!

Photo for main logo and slogan main raising smiles

MAIN Open Day Drop in Session

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You’re Invited! MAIN Open Day –Come and Visit Us!

Join us for a calm, friendly drop‑in where you can:
✔ Explore our site
✔ Meet our staff team
✔ Learn more about our services and support
✔ Ask questions in a relaxed environment

📅 Date: Wednesday 25th March

🕐 Time: 1:00pm – 2:00pm

📍 Location:

MAIN – The Finlay Cooper Centre
Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby
TS3 6EN

📞 Contact: 01642 608012

Everyone is welcome – we look forward to meeting you!