Tag Archive for: Autism

Join MAIN’s Board of Trustees

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Join MAIN’s Board of Trustees – Make a Difference for Neurodiverse Lives

Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive world? Do you believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, no matter their neurodiversity, disability, or additional needs?

MAIN is looking for new trustees to join our Board, specifically individuals with backgrounds in Law, Human Resources, and Special Educational Needs (SEN) to help shape the future of our vital work.

Who We Are

MAIN is a charity dedicated to supporting autistic people, those who are neurodiverse, have learning disabilities, or additional and complex needs. Our services span from age 5 into adulthood, offering practical support, social opportunities, education, and advocacy to improve lives and remove barriers to inclusion.

From youth groups and life skills training to adult support services and family outreach, we’re here to help people be themselves, build confidence, and live more independently.

Why Become a Trustee?

Joining MAIN’s Board is more than a governance role, it’s an opportunity to transform lives.

As a trustee, you will:

  • Help steer the strategic direction of the charity

  • Ensure our services meet the needs of our community

  • Uphold our values of inclusion, respect, empowerment, and compassion

  • Offer your expertise to support good governance and ethical decision-making

  • Be part of a passionate, forward-thinking team driving real change

Who We’re Looking For

We’re especially interested in hearing from people with skills or professional experience in:

⚖️ Law

  • Governance and compliance

  • Charity law or safeguarding knowledge

  • Risk management

‍ Human Resources (HR)

  • Recruitment, retention, and workforce wellbeing

  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

  • Organisational development

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

  • Experience in education, EHCP processes, or local authority work

  • First-hand understanding of the challenges faced by families and young people

  • A passion for supporting learning and development in neurodiverse individuals

We are also keen to reflect the diversity of the people we support, and warmly welcome applications from those with lived experience of autism, neurodiversity, or disability.

If you’re interested, please email hwhyman@iammain.org.uk in the first instance with a brief introduction about yourself.

October is ADHD Awareness Month

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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

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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!

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Thank You to the People & Communities Who Truly Understand MAIN

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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

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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

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!

Love heart art work

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.

Thank you Teesside Millions and the Lt Col Cohen Fund

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A Heartfelt Thank You to Teesside Millions and the Lt Col Cohen Distribution Fund

We are thrilled to announce some incredible news, our application to Teesside Millions and the Lt Col Cohen Distribution Fund has been successful!

Thanks to their generous support, we have been awarded a grant of £3,000 to help fund our upcoming project. This funding is a huge boost and will make a real difference to the work we’re doing in our community.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Teesside Millions, the grant-giving service of the Tees Foundation, and to all the supporters and donors who made this possible. Your investment in grassroots projects like ours means the world, and it enables real change where it’s needed most.

We’re excited to get started and look forward to sharing our progress with you. Be sure to follow us on our journey and we’ll be tagging the Tees Foundation on our social media so you can see how your support is making a difference. You can find them on Facebook at Tees Foundation, give them a follow to keep up with all the amazing work they’re doing across the region.

To the team at Tees Foundation – thank you once again for believing in our vision. With your help, we’re one step closer to making it a reality.

Stay tuned – great things are coming!

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

Great Achievement

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Celebrating Sam’s University Success!

We’re absolutely thrilled to celebrate an incredible milestone — Sam has graduated from Teesside University with a well-deserved 2:1 in History! His hard work, commitment, and passion for the past have all paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder of what he’s achieved.

Studying History is no easy feat — it takes deep thinking, critical analysis, and a real love for storytelling and understanding the world around us. Sam has shown all of that and more throughout his time at university.

Now, with his degree in hand, Sam is setting his sights on a future that connects his passion for history with his career goals. His dream? To work in a museum, where he can help bring the past to life for others, share knowledge, and continue learning every day.

We’re so excited to see where this next chapter takes him. With his enthusiasm, dedication, and love of history, we know he’ll be a fantastic asset to any museum team.

Congratulations, Sam — your future is looking bright, and we’re cheering you on every step of the way!

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

AMAZING Staff, doing AMAZING things for MAIN

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SPONSORED WALK ROUND-UP

In aid of MAIN ❤️

On Monday 2nd June, some of our amazing team took part in a fancy dress sponsored walk.

Thanks to the incredible kindness of our community, family, friends, colleagues, and the families of our service-users — we’re thrilled to share that we more than TRIPLED our fundraising target, raising an amazing £1,122!

Your generous donations will go directly toward enhancing the experiences of those we support, helping us invest in new sensory supplies, interactive tools, and calming spaces that will truly make a difference.

From every donation and share, to every kind word of encouragement, your support meant the world to us.  We simply couldn’t have done it without you.

Thank you for walking this journey with us. ❤️


#TogetherRaisingSmiles

#AutismAwareness #SponsoredWalk #ThankYou