October is ADHD Awareness Month

/in /by

October is ADHD Awareness Month: Here’s How MAIN Can Support You

October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time to educate, advocate, and empower those living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or working in education, health, or social care, awareness and understanding are key to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone affected by ADHD.

At MAIN, we believe in celebrating neurodiversity and providing meaningful, practical support for individuals and families navigating ADHD. Our goal is to create safe, understanding spaces where people can access resources, build confidence, and thrive.

What is ADHD?

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It’s often misunderstood and can present differently in children and adults. ADHD is not a sign of laziness or lack of intelligence, it’s a unique way of thinking and processing the world.

People with ADHD may experience:

  • Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention

  • Restlessness and impulsivity

  • Challenges with organization and time management

  • High creativity, energy, and problem-solving skills

Understanding these traits is the first step in supporting people with ADHD to reach their full potential.

Why ADHD Awareness Matters

Raising awareness helps reduce stigma and ensures that those with ADHD feel seen, understood, and supported. It promotes earlier diagnosis, better access to resources, and a more inclusive society.

This ADHD Awareness Month, MAIN stands with the ADHD community. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with ADHD, or looking for a better understanding of how to help, you are not alone. We’re here to listen, guide, and support. #TogertherRaisingSmiles

Christmas Community Magic

/in /by

MAIN’s Christmas Fayre – Let’s Make It Magical!  November 29th 11 – 3pm

Across 3 amazing venues –

  • MAIN – Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby TS3 6EN
  • Elizabeth House – Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6HE
  • Pennyman House – James Street, North Ormesby, TS3 6LB

This Christmas, MAIN is celebrating all that is good by bringing our community together for a heart-warming Christmas Fayre – and we’d love your help to make it extra special!

MAIN supports children from age 5 into adulthood who are autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled, and/or have complex needs. This year, we’re proudly partnering with Pennyman House – sheltered accommodation for those aged 55+ – and Elizabeth House, a care home supporting older people and those affected by Alzheimer’s.

Together, we’re creating a festive event full of joy, laughter, and community spirit – and we need your support!

✨ Can you donate a tombola prize? ✨

Big or small, every donation helps us spread cheer across generations. From chocolates and wine to toys, toiletries, or vouchers – your generosity can help light up someone’s Christmas.

Donations can be dropped off at MAIN, Finlay Cooper Centre, North Ormesby TS3 6EN

Let’s make this Christmas unforgettable for all the amazing individuals we support. Thank you for being part of our wonderful community! ❤️

#MAINChristmasFayre #CommunitySpirit #DonateForAGoodCause #TombolaTime

Supported by Tees Traders Network

Over 30 Stalls attending, lots of choice and great ideas for Christmas Gifts!

468318373_10160076545991076_7720933763074058145_n.jpg

Thank You to the People & Communities Who Truly Understand MAIN

/in /by

Thank You to the People & Communities Who Truly Understand MAIN

At MAIN, we are constantly reminded of how lucky we are to be surrounded by such an incredible community, people who not only understand our mission but champion it in the most meaningful ways.

As a local charity supporting autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled, and complex needs children and young people from the age of 5 into adulthood, the work we do is both vital and deeply personal. But we know that none of it could happen without you, our local supporters, advocates, funders, volunteers, and friends.

There is something incredibly powerful about being seen and understood. So many of you just get what we’re trying to achieve. You see the importance of inclusion. You recognise the value of every child and young person we support. You show up, not only with financial support, but with your time, your voices, and your belief in us.

Thanks to you, MAIN is not just surviving, we’re growing, evolving, and continuing to build a safe, empowering space for our young people and their families.

This is exactly why we have our Thank You Wall, a permanent reminder that every single act of kindness, every show of support, and every bit of belief in our mission matters. It’s the first thing you see when you walk through our doors, because when you support MAIN, you’re not just a donor or a volunteer, you are family.

From the bottom of our heart, personally and professionally, thank you. You are the reason we can keep pushing forward. You are the reason so many of our children and young people feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Please note there are still spaces to be filled, be part of our journey!

You are all superstars.

With heartfelt gratitude,


Heather Whyman & Trustees
MAIN

Many Heartfelt Thanks to UK Pods Ltd

/in /by

A Heartfelt Thank You to UK Pods Ltd

At MAIN, we are continually reminded of the incredible generosity and kindness that surrounds us and today, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to UK Pods Ltd for their extraordinary act of giving.

Thanks to their generous donation of a POD, our organisation has been blessed with an incredible support. This gift is  a symbol of community, compassion, and the belief that when we come together, we can create meaningful change.

To UK Pods Ltd—thank you, thank you, thank you. Your support reminds us just how lucky we are to be part of such an amazing community. Your kindness shines brightly and encourages us to keep doing what we do, knowing we are not alone.

From everyone at MAIN, thank you again for believing in us and for helping us grow.

With heartfelt appreciation,
The MAIN Team

Love heart art work

Paracetamol not linked to AUTISM diagnosis

/in /by

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.

SEN School Transport – need to know

/in /by

Understanding Changes in SEN School Transport – What You Need to Know

At MAIN, we are proud to support families, young people, and the professionals who work tirelessly to ensure children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) can access the support they need to thrive.

Over recent months, we area aware of many families who have shared concerns about changes or uncertainty surrounding SEN school transport, including cases where transport has been removed or replaced with a personal transport budget (PTB). These changes can understandably cause worry and disruption, particularly when routines and consistency are so vital for many of our children.

We want to take a moment to recognise the incredible work Education and Local Authorities do every day. From transport arrangements and short breaks to wider SEND services, many departments across the country are working under increasing pressure to meet growing demand with limited resources. We value these efforts and acknowledge how vital their work is in supporting our communities.

What Does the Law Say?

Children with special educational needs are entitled to free home-to-school transport up to the age of 16, if they meet certain criteria, including distance from school, mobility difficulties, or if their SEN or disability means they cannot reasonably be expected to walk to school.

This is a statutory duty under the Education Act (1996), and Local Authorities must provide suitable transport for eligible children of compulsory school age. For most children, this means up to the end of the academic year in which they turn 16.

In practice, this support should be part of a broader transition plan, developed in partnership with families, to prepare young people for life beyond school.

How MAIN Can Help

If your family is affected by these changes, please know you are not alone, and support is available. At MAIN, we are here to offer:

  • Advice and guidance on your child’s transport rights

  • Help with understanding decisions made by the Local Authority

  • Support in challenging decisions if you believe your child is being unfairly impacted

  • A listening ear when things feel overwhelming

We want to work with Local Authorities and families, not in opposition. Believing that the best outcomes come from collaboration, compassion, and clear communication.

Next Steps for Families

If your child is under 16 and you’ve been informed their transport is changing or ending, you may wish to:

  1. Request a written explanation of the decision from your Local Authority

  2. Check your child’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to see if transport is mentioned

  3. Get in touch with us at MAIN for support and advice

Remember, any decision that impacts a child’s access to education is a serious one, and it’s okay to ask questions or challenge, if needed.

At MAIN, our mission is always to empower families and young people, and that includes making sure that your voice is heard and that your rights are respected.

We’re here to help you navigate these systems and stand alongside you every step of the way.

With care,
The MAIN Team

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

World Suicide Prevention Day 10th September 2025

/in /by

You Are Not Alone – Supporting Our Neurodiverse Community This World Suicide Prevention Day

As we approach World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, it’s a time for reflection, connection, and,  most importantly, support.

For many within the autistic and neurodiverse community, life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether it’s navigating a world that often misunderstands you, struggling with sensory overload, communication challenges, or just the everyday pressures that come with being different in a neurotypical world, it can feel lonely. And for some, those feelings can grow heavy.

But we want you to know this – YOU are not alone.

MAIN is Here for You

At MAIN, we understand how tough things can get. If you’re feeling low, anxious, or even suicidal, please remember that support is just a message, a conversation, or a safe space away.

Whether you need someone to talk to, a community that “gets it”, or simply a place where you can be yourself without judgment, we are here.

Join our MAIN CHAT online group – a supportive, understanding space where you can connect with others in the autistic and neurodiverse community. Sometimes, just chatting with someone who relates to your experiences can lift the weight.

Talk to someone you trust – a friend, family member, mentor, or support worker. Reaching out can feel scary, but it could be the step that helps lighten the load.

Access support through MAIN – our team is here to help. Whether you’re looking for advice, someone to listen, or pathways to mental health support, we’re here with open arms and open ears.

It’s OK to Not Be OK

If you’re struggling right now, please don’t feel like you have to hide it. Being part of the neurodiverse community doesn’t mean you have to carry the world on your shoulders. It’s okay to say, “I’m not okay.”

What matters is knowing there’s support around you – people who care, people who understand, people who want you to stay.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

This World Suicide Prevention Day, let’s come together and look out for each other. Start a conversation. Share a kind word. Check in on someone who might need it. Or simply let someone know they’re not alone.

Together, we can make a difference – one chat, one connection, one life at a time.

weekend-adventurers-picture-02

Summer of FUN!

/in /by

Title: A Summer of Impact – Thank You to Our Incredible MAIN Staff!

As the summer holidays come to a close, we want to take a moment to shine a huge spotlight on the truly outstanding team here at MAIN.

Over the past six weeks, our dedicated staff have supported nearly 700 children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) – including those who are autistic, neurodiverse, have learning disabilities and/or complex needs. This incredible work took place across our two main sites: the Finlay Cooper Centre and our Guisborough base.

Whether it was delivering structured play, engaging in sensory activities, supporting social interaction, or just being a calm and caring presence, our team have gone above and beyond every single day. The energy, compassion, and creativity they’ve poured into our summer provision has made a real difference for so many children and families.

From all of us at MAIN – thank you.
You’ve not only provided a safe, supportive environment for hundreds of children to thrive, but you’ve also helped create joyful summer memories for families who often find this time of year incredibly challenging.

We’re incredibly proud of everything our team stands for, and everything they’ve achieved this summer.

Here’s to continuing to support, empower and uplift our community.  #TogetherRaisingSmiles

#TeamMAIN #ThankYou #SENDsupport #AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity #MAINcharity #InclusionMatters

Lyke Wake Walk – Intrepid Explorers

/in /by

Celebrating Our 7 Little Rainbows

Tonight, seven amazing people are setting off to take on the Lyke Wake Walk, a gruelling 40-mile trek across the moors, walking through the night and into tomorrow,  all in support of MAIN, our charity for autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled, and complex needs individuals based in North Ormesby.

There are 7 colours in a rainbow, and fittingly, we have 7 incredible individuals making this journey. Each one brings their own strength, spirit, and colour to everything we do, together, they form something truly powerful and beautiful.

These volunteers don’t just support MAIN, they are MAIN. Their hearts and souls are woven into our mission, and their dedication shines brighter than ever.

To our 7 little rainbows: thank you, good luck, and well done.  You’re walking for more than just miles, you’re walking for inclusion, for understanding, and for every life we touch.

We’re behind you every step of the way.

#7LittleRainbows #LykeWakeWalk #TeamMAIN #NeurodiversityMatters #WalkingForChange #ThankYou

Bon Voyage – Louisa

/in /by

Thank You, Louisa – Wishing You All the Best in Canada!

As we say goodbye to one of our wonderful team members, we also celebrate the journey she’s about to begin.

Louisa joined MAIN as an Outreach Worker in January 2023, bringing not only her skills and dedication but also a warmth and kindness that quickly made her an invaluable part of our team.  Having travelled from her home country of Nigeria with a Bachelors and Masters already in Geology, Louisa took up further studies at Teesside University, it is fair to say knowing Louisa that her journey has been one of determination, grace, and strength.

From day one, Louisa brought a quiet confidence, professionalism, and a truly beautiful spirit, inside and out. It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside her, but more than that, to know her, as the incredible person she is.

As she now emigrates to Canada to begin her next chapter, we want Louisa to know how deeply she will be missed. Your presence has left a lasting impression on us all, and you will always have a home at MAIN.

Wishing you and your family, every success and happiness in this exciting new chapter.  Canada is lucky to have you!

With love and thanks,
All of us at MAIN

Louisa’s email to all our staff, reads –

‘I am truly overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the kind words, the warm wishes and  genuine prayers. This touched my heart in ways I can’t fully express. Your kindness and love means more than words can say, and I feel so honored to have been part of such a supportive and caring team. My prayer for all is that this organization will continue to grow in unity, excellence, and fulfillment; that each member of this Beautiful team will find joy in their work, favor in every endeavor, and success that exceeds expectations. May the bonds we’ve built continue to strengthen, and may MAIN go from heights to to greater heights’.