Join our team- We are looking for volunteers!
We launching a new volunteering programme at MAIN
- Administrator
- Gardening
- Handy person
- Social media/Marketing
- Outreach role in our clubs
- Activity or events planner

MAIN donated some game consoles and computer equipment to FurbdIT a great charity working to support the third sector and local people with IT equipment and games consoles at reduced rates.
Visit from Chris Cooke- Middlesbrough Mayor/in Events/by Kimberly Field
‘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
Verity is the daughter of one of MAIN’s staff and offered to volunteer some time at MAIN. Verity is studying in her home country, Nigeria, and whilst visiting her Mum in the UK wanted to give back to the local community.
Verity was a great help and supported our team with administrative tasks and gained experience of a UK work environment
Thank you Verity
If you are interested in volunteering at MAIN please get in touch by emailing us or calling on 01642 608012
Back in July, MAIN promoted awareness of Disability Pride month. Disability Pride is celebrating what makes everyone different and to recognise the achievements and identities of people with disabilities. Our groups went for sponsored walks in aid of MAIN and raised a total of £971.40
Each group celebrated by attending Level X in club, the majority of the money went to sensory equipment and will go towards our Big Build for the second activity room.
Thank you again everyone
Jovial Monk has nominated MAIN as their charity of the year and are holding a new event for everyone to join in. Please come down to the Jovial Monk on 30th November for a Reggae Night to help support MAIN.
@ Jovial Monk , Kings Road, North Ormesby, TS3 6NQ
6pm
You can become a dementia friend too
Who are the child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) crisis and liaison team?
The crisis and liaison team provide mental health support to young people (up to the age of 18) who are experiencing a crisis with their mental health.
What can the crisis team do for me?
The team respond to the immediate mental health needs of young people, offering short term help, either at home or in the community, and will stay involved until there is a resolution of the immediate crisis.
Who can call us?
Anyone who is concerned about a young person experiencing a mental health crisis can contact the service. You can request a referral from your GP.
When to call us?
What we can and can’t do
We can:
We cannot:
Crisis Team Number 08000516171 24 hours a day seven days a week
Find more information here
Please remember to complete Middlesbrough’s SEND Parent/Carer survey
This is a great opportunity to give Parent/Carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities in Middlesbrough, a chance to give some feedback and have a voice.
Inclusion and Specialist Support Services- Middlesbrough
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