Tag Archive for: Autism

Pancake day finished product

Spotlight: Aaron

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Pancake Day at the Pathway to Independence Centre

Aaron had an amazing Pancake Day at the Pathway to Independence Centre! He started by buying all the necessary ingredients from the shop. Once back, he washed his hands thoroughly to get ready for the fun.

Aaron made the pancake mixture all by himself, showing great independence. He was very careful while cooking the pancakes in the pan. When it came time to flip them, he exclaimed “hoopla!” with excitement.

For decoration, Aaron chose chocolate spread and sprinkles, making his pancakes look as good as they tasted. After enjoying his delicious creation, he described them as “very yummy” and “delicious.”

To wrap up his Pancake Day, Aaron took responsibility for cleaning up. He washed all the pots, cleaned the worktops, and even mopped the floor, ensuring the kitchen was spotless.

Great job, Aaron!

Pancake day cooking pancakesPancake day toppings Pancake day finished product  Pancake Day- washing up Pancake day- cleaning up

If you would like to learn more about our PA Support Services please contact us here

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Feedback : County Durham Post Diagnostic Support Service
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Feedback : County Durham Post Diagnostic Support Service

My name is Michael and I have been under the care of MAIN since 2021

I was diagnosed with autism in my 30s after a lifetime of being isolated, confused and constantly lost and overwhelmed I have found MAIN to be a critical resource on my ongoing journey to both understand and navigate how my autism presents and manifests itself. Without MAIN I would have no one to turn to with an understanding of autism and the awareness of how to help accommodate my needs.

MAIN has been more than just a point of contact. They have provided greatly needed advice and reassurance on many things. They have helped me to allow myself to be autistic after a lifetime of exhausting masking. They have given me a voice when I have not been able to speak for myself and are a constant source of support and care in a world I do not understand. They have helped prevent both me and my autistic sister Louise from being taken advantage of and being pushed into things that are not appropriate for us. Without them, we thought we had no choice and ended up exploited and distressed. They have helped me trying to manage negative behaviours and allow myself to explore being kind to myself and not be ashamed of what can give me comfort. I still find managing myself a huge struggle but MAINs support has reduced the amount of self harming incidents I endure. MAIN were vital in aiding me during an extremely stressful and upsetting PIP assessment. Without their support I do not know if I would have been awarded anything. MAIN have facilitated me accessing my GP several times, helping to get me access to needed medications and supplements. They have helped reconnect me with my doctors surgery and re-establish much needed physical monitoring for a long enduring eating disorder. Without them I had not been seen since the pandemic. MAIN were crucial in getting me access to the covid vaccine and planning a safe journey that would minimise my distress MAIN have spent a lot of time helping me to understand many things. I have had problems with understanding various bills and letters, knowing my rights, making important decisions and communicating them successfully, if at all.

I do not like to think of how I would begin to manage if MAIN were no longer accessible to me. They have provided the one thing I have never had in my entire life, respectful guidance, support and help with my autism, allowing me to slowly consider the notion that I am and can be a person of worth

I truly hope I have been able to convey how important MAIN have been as a service. Not just to me but to everyone they work with.

Thanking You

 

If you would like to learn more about our County Durham Service please look here or contact us here 

Nala- Therapy Dog

Please Welcome to the MAIN Family- Nala- The Therapy Dog

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Nala the Therapy Dog’s First Week at MAIN

We are delighted to introduce Nala, our new therapy dog volunteer, who has had an exciting first week at MAIN! Nala went for her assessment with Pets at Therapy last month and passed on her first try. She is now an officially registered therapy dog.

Nala will be working in the prisons around Teesside and will also be joining us for clubs and fun days at MAIN. She is a 1-year-old female cocker spaniel who loves to play with everyone and also enjoys relaxing and getting cuddles. We believe she will be a perfect fit for some of the children and adults at MAIN.

Nala is one of MAIN’s own, Sophie’s dog. Sophie is one of our dedicated facilitators at MAIN.

During Nala’s first visit to the centre, she introduced herself to some of our groups and PAs. Her friendly and loving nature has already made a positive impact, and we are excited to see the joy and comfort she will bring to everyone at MAIN.

Welcome to the team, Nala!

 

Please sign up to our newsletter to keep updated  at the bottom of each webpage

Group photo in centre

Exciting News: The Pathway to Independence Centre is Open!

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Exciting News: The Pathway to Independence Centre is Open!

We are thrilled to announce that our Pathway to Independence Centre is now open! Over the first two weeks, the centre has already become a vibrant hub of activity and community.Our Adult Group has been enjoying the space, relaxing and socialising in a welcoming environment. It’s wonderful to see everyone coming together and making the most of the new facilities.

On Saturdays, our Teens & Tweens group has been busy in the Pathway to Independence area. They made some delicious old-school tray-bake for the first time, and it was a huge success! The teens and tweens took on the responsibility of washing, drying, and putting away the pots, as well as measuring their own ingredients. Their teamwork and enthusiasm were truly commendable.

Well done to everyone involved!

For more information about our clubs and services please look here or look under Activities 

Group posing at bottom of Roseberry Topping

Cheering on Our Volunteers: Training for the 40-Mile Lyke Wake Walk

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Cheering on Our Volunteers: Training for the 40-Mile Lyke Wake Walk

We are incredibly proud of our dedicated group of volunteers who are fundraising for MAIN.
As they prepare for the gruelling 40-mile Lyke Wake Walk in August, some of the volunteers managed to put some time aside, Neil, Adam, Liam, Joshua, Aidan, and Tom have been putting in the hard work to ensure they’re ready for the challenge.
This past Saturday, the team met up for a training session that took them up Roseberry Topping and to Captain Cook’s Monument and back. It was a tough trek, but the group showed incredible determination and spirit as they tested out their boots and logged some practice miles.
Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook’s Monument provided the perfect backdrop for their training, offering both beautiful scenery and challenging terrain. The team’s commitment to their training is truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see them conquer the Lyke Wake Walk in August.
Let’s all cheer on Neil, Adam, Liam, Joshua, Aidan, and Tom as they continue their preparations. Your support means the world to them and helps drive them forward. Keep up the amazing work, Team!
Photos of our team on their practice walk   

Please help fundraise or sponsor our team of walkers by going to our JustGiving Page 

Unregistered Alternative Education explaining we are launching

New Service: Unregistered Alternative Education Provision – Middlesbrough, Darlington & Redcar

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MAIN’s New Provision

MAIN are now launching our Unregistered Alternative Education Provision for Middlesbrough, Redcar and Darlington residents.

For individuals who are Autistic. neurodivergent, awaiting a diagnosis, have a learning disability and/ or complete need and not accessing education.

Sessions take place at our centre and in the community. We aim to support young individuals engage in education using a creative and person-centred approach.

What is Unregistered Alternative Education? 

Unregistered Alternative Education for children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN), who are not attending school refers to educational settings or programs that are not formally registered or regulated by the government.

These environments offer flexible and often individualised learning opportunities tailored to the uniqueness of the child, young person. Families may choose unregistered alternative education for a variety of reasons, including dissatisfaction with traditional schooling, difficulties in meeting the child’s specific needs, or sensory and emotional challenges that make formal school environments overwhelming.

What are the benefits?

Unregistered Alternative Education offers a flexible, individualised approach that prioritises the child’s specific needs, interests, and emotional well-being. With a focus on personalised learning, therapeutic support, and practical life skills, these settings offer a valuable alternative for families who find traditional schooling insufficient or unsuitable for their neurodiverse children.

 

Please contact us if you would like more information

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March 2025 -Autism & Mental Health Bookable 1:1

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Here to Help

MAIN are working in collaboration with St John of God to offer workshops to promote understanding of self and learning strategies.

MAIN will be delivering some sessions in March, you can book a 30 minute- one hour slot 

Monday 3rd March: 1pm-3pm
Wednesday 5th March: 2pm-4pm
Wednesday 12th March: 1pm-3pm
Friday 14th March: 10pm-12pm
Friday 21st March: 1pm-3pm
Monday 24th March: 1pm-3pm
Wednesday 26th March: 1pm-3pm
Friday 28th March: 10am-12pm

All sessions are suitable for anyone aged 14+ years.

Location: MAIN, The Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, Middlesbrough, TS3 6EN

We can provide alternative dates and times, along with telephone or video call sessions. Please just get in touch.

You can access more information, resources and support here

Please contact us if you would like more information and to book on

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
Love heart art work

Celebrating Heart warming Feedback from Our Community

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Celebrating Heart warming Feedback from Our Community

February at MAIN: Fostering Relationships and Wellbeing

February is MAIN’s month to focus on our relationships and provide clients with useful guides and workshops to promote safety and wellbeing and reduce social isolation. We are thrilled to share some lovely feedback from various services we provide at MAIN.

Showstoppers Group

One parent shared their appreciation for our Showstoppers group:

“Lovely group put together who enjoy singing and dancing and each other’s company. C looks forward to going each week, which has helped her confidence and social isolation greatly. Thank you for your ongoing support.”

Durham Coordinators

We also received heartfelt verbal feedback for our Durham Coordinators:

“Thank you so very much, Katherine. I really appreciate it. I don’t know what I’d do without you, Lewis, and the rest of MAIN. You are such a vital service, and you are all so nice, patient, and understanding.”

1:1 Bookable Sessions

In partnership with St John of God, our suicide prevention program for autistic individuals across Tees Valley has also received positive feedback:

“The advice and guidance I have received from Leah so far has been really beneficial, and I am grateful to have this support at a crucial point where I am facing a lot of uncertainty and changes. I’d feel alone otherwise and just wouldn’t know what to do. I feel it will help me navigate what the next few months may look like or what might change, and I am hopeful it will help me get back to a stable position where I feel more confident and comfortable with my circumstances and can manage my anxiety.”

We are incredibly grateful for this feedback and remain committed to supporting our clients in every way possible. Thank you for being a part of MAIN’s community!

Saturday Tween and Teens 

Two parents gave some amazing feedback to Brooke Hall, the groups facilitator- well done Brooke

Mum: 
“James loves your teens and tweens. Since you used the public bus, he has been showing me pictures of Arriva buses on his iPad. So, that whole part of the activity where you did something that James wouldnt normally do was great for him”
Mum: 
“T loves all the sessions, he loves anything physical and always comes home having enjoyed the activities”
 For more information about our Post Diagnostic Support and other services, please visit Support Services on our website
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Feedback from a Parent – Durham’s Post Diagnostic Support Service

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Celebrating Heart warming Feedback from Our Community

At I am MAIN, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and expert support to Autistic Individuals and their families. We are thrilled to share some heart warming feedback from the parents of one of our clients, which truly highlights the positive impact of our services.

“As parents of a young person with autism, we received the news of I am MAIN’s existence with great relief. Friends of ours with similar needs spoke very highly of the support their young person had received from the service in Durham. Since then, our son has attended a series of meetings with Katherine Palmer to talk through his experience and his needs in detail. He has engaged very well with Katherine and the process even though he doesn’t always find this sort of thing easy to deal with. Katherine’s empathetic approach in the meetings provided a reassuring and understanding environment for him to express himself in. He has enjoyed the opportunity to talk through his aspirations with Katherine and about the obstacles that he will need help tackling in order to achieve them. And we now have a series of support activities scheduled to help him begin work on this. We have greatly appreciated the compassionate and expert engagement we and our son have experienced so far and are very hopeful about the programme that is now available for him to move forward.”

We are incredibly grateful for such kind words. It means the world to us to know that our efforts have made a positive difference in the lives of our clients and their families. Katherine Palmer’s empathetic approach and dedication to understanding each individual’s unique needs have been instrumental in creating a supportive and reassuring environment for our clients.

Our mission at I am MAIN is to empower young people with autism to achieve their aspirations and overcome obstacles with the help of tailored support activities. We are excited to continue working with our clients and their families to provide the best possible care and support.

Thank you to everyone who has shared their experiences and feedback with us. Your stories inspire us to keep striving for excellence in everything we do.

Together, we can make a difference

 For more information about our Post Diagnostic Support and other services, please visit Support Services on our website