Tag Archive for: Benefit Support

Children’s Mental Health Week 9th – 15th February 2026

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It’s Children’s Mental Health Week, and this year, we’re shining a light on every unique way of thinking, feeling, and being. 🌟

Whether your child is neurodiverse, neurotypical, or somewhere in between, this week is all about listening, sharing, and celebrating feelings, the good, the messy, and even the “wait, what just happened?!” kind.

Here’s the thing: every feeling matters.  Anxiety?  Frustration?  Joy?  Excitement?  They’re all part of the story, and every story deserves to be heard. 🎨📝

So, how can we make this week a little brighter (and a lot more supportive)?

1️⃣ Talk, doodle, or dance it out – Not everyone can put feelings into words.  That’s okay! Drawing, journaling, or even dancing like nobody’s watching are all superpower-level ways to express yourself.

2️⃣ Celebrate strengths – Neurodiverse kids often see the world differently and that’s a gift!  Maybe it’s a quirky sense of humour, a lightning-fast memory, or a way of noticing details others miss. Cheer it, celebrate it, and let them know it matters. 🌈

3️⃣ Create safe spaces – A quiet corner, a calming playlist, or a favorite fidget toy can make a huge difference. Support looks like listening without judgment, asking open questions like “How are you feeling?” and giving space to answer in their own way.

4️⃣ Share and connect – You’re not alone, and neither are they.  Sharing stories, tips, or even small victories builds understanding, empathy, and community. 💌

Remember, mental health isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s about nurturing growth, kindness, and connection. And a little humour along the way never hurts. 😉

💛 This Children’s Mental Health Week, let’s promise to:

  • Listen more than we talk

  • Celebrate every brain, every feeling, and every win

  • Remind children (and ourselves) that it’s okay to ask for help, to pause, and to be exactly who we are

Because in the end, love, care, and understanding are the superpowers that make every child feel safe, seen, and celebrated.

2026 – Be Kind to Yourself and to Others

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Closing the Year with Care: A Neurodivergent Look Ahead to 2026

As the year ends, many people naturally pause to reflect on what has been and begin to think about what lies ahead. For neurodivergent people, including our autistic community, this time of year can bring a wide mix of emotions. There may be relief, pride, tiredness, hope, or uncertainty about change. Some people may also experience loneliness, or sadness when seeing other families celebrating in ways that aren’t accessible or possible for their own family.  All these feelings are valid, and none of them need fixing.

Rather than placing pressure or holding unrealistic expectations, this moment offers a gentle opportunity to pause, reset, and consider how the coming year might feel safer, kinder, and more supportive. It might help to ask:

  • What do I need?
  • What do my family and loved ones need?

Reflecting on the Year Just Gone – Without Judgment

Reflection doesn’t have to involve criticism.  For neurodivergent people, simply moving through a year in a world that isn’t always designed with us in mind, is an achievement.  Sometimes we overlook how much we’ve managed, adapted, and learnt along the way. Taking time to recognise your achievements matters.

You may have discovered new ways to cope, communicate, or care for yourself, continue that learning into 2026.

You might gently reflect on questions such as:

  • What helped me feel calm or supported this year?
  • Do I need more support moving forward?
  • When did I feel most like myself?
  • What drained my energy, and what helped restore it?
  • What did I learn about my needs?
  • What do I still want to understand better?
  • Who are my safe people?

There are no right or wrong answers here. Reflection is about understanding yourself with kindness, not placing blame.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Planning That Works for Neurodivergent Lives

Traditional goal setting can feel overwhelming or unrealistic.  Neurodivergent-friendly planning focuses instead on flexibility, support, and compassion.

Helpful approaches might include:

  • Choosing a gentle theme for 2026 instead of strict goals (such as wellbeing, balance, connection, or understanding myself)
  • Breaking plans into small, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm
  • Using tools that suit you — visual planners, reminders, routines, or lists
  • Planning rest and downtime as essential parts of life, not optional extras, to help reduce burnout

Your plans don’t need to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful or valid.

Happiness on Your Own Terms

Happiness doesn’t mean feeling positive all the time.  For many autistic and neurodivergent people, happiness often looks like:

  • Feeling safe and accepted
  • Having needs recognised and respected
  • Being able to reduce masking and be yourself
  • Enjoying interests without guilt
  • Having predictability, choice, and understanding

A helpful question to carry forward is:
What helps me feel more at ease in my everyday life?

Those answers can gently guide you through 2026.

Staying Safe as You Move into a New Year

Safety is a vital part of wellbeing.  You can support your sense of safety by:

  • Setting clear boundaries around time, energy, and communication
  • Noticing early signs of stress or becoming overwhelmed
  • Staying connected with trusted people, services, or routines
  • Taking breaks from social media or news when it feels too much
  • Trusting your instincts
  • Asking for what you need, and seeking support with self-advocacy when that feels difficult

You deserve spaces where you feel heard, respected, and supported. Please feel welcome to ask us about the support available for you and your loved ones within our neurodivergent community.

A Message from MAIN

At MAIN, our wish is simple and heartfelt.  As we move into 2026, we wish everyone a new year that is not only joyful, but also safe, compassionate, and respectful.

We believe happiness grows when people are supported to be themselves, when differences are valued, and when wellbeing comes first. As the new year begins, we encourage you to move forward at your own pace, ask for support when you need it, and prioritise what truly helps you feel secure and included.

Moving Forward with Compassion

You do not need to change who you are in the new year. You are not behind, and you are not failing if things feel hard.

Let 2026 be a year where:

  • Your needs are taken seriously
  • Progress is measured in comfort and wellbeing, not pressure
  • Rest and growth are both welcome
  • Kindness toward yourself is a priority

However you are ending this year, you are welcome in the next one exactly as you are.

From all of us at MAIN, we wish you a safe, supportive, and caring 2026.

Love heart art work

Post Diagnosis Support Service 2014 – 2025

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A Heartfelt Thank You as Our Post Diagnosis Service Transitions

Since 2014, MAIN has had the privilege of delivering the Post Diagnosis Support Service (PDSS), offering not just guidance, but a helping hand, a light at the end of what can often feel like a very dark tunnel. Most importantly, PDSS has stood for respect, understanding, and positivity; values we have always held at the heart of everything we do.

As of 1st June 2025, this vital service will be moving to a new provider.

Over the past 11 years, our dedicated PDSS team — Kimberley, Melissa, Philip, Katherine, Pippa, Lewis, Daisy and Stephen,  have directly supported more than a thousand individuals, along with their loved ones and professionals. Each of them brought compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to every person they supported.

To our autistic community: thank you. Thank you for the trust you placed in us, and for allowing us to be part of your journey. It has been a genuine honour.

At MAIN, we have always treated every individual as just that — an individual. That will never change. While the PDSS will now continue under different leadership, our passion for supporting the neurodivergent community remains stronger than ever.

We would also like to take this opportunity to wish our Durham autistic community the very best for the future.

If you have any enquiries about the Post Diagnosis Support Service after 31st May 2025, please contact:

Durham County Council
Commissioning Policy and Planning Officer
Adult and Health Services
Tel: 03000 268407

With heartfelt gratitude,
The MAIN Team

 

Parent / Carer Open Day May 20th May 2025 – 12 – 2pm 5 – 7pm

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You’re Invited! MAIN Open Day – Discover Our New Pathways to Independence

We are thrilled to invite all parents and carers to join us for a special Open Day at MAIN, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore our brand-new Pathways to Independence space.

Date: 20th May 2025
Time: 12:00pm – 2pm / 5pm – 7pm
Location: MAIN – TS3 6EN

Our Pathways to Independence is a fully adaptable and accessible learning environment designed to help young people build essential life skills with confidence and independence. From practicing daily living tasks to exploring vocational and social opportunities, the space has been thoughtfully developed to support every individual’s journey at their own pace.

During the Open Day, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Tour the new facility

  • Meet our experienced and supportive team

  • Learn about the personalised programmes we offer

  • Ask questions and get involved in shaping future activities

This is a great opportunity to see first-hand how MAIN is continuing to empower young people by creating inclusive and inspiring spaces that reflect real-life experiences.

Booking required – please email @ info@iammain.org.uk or call – 01642 608012

We can’t wait to welcome you.

 

Mental Health Week 2025

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Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 – We’re Here to Help

May 12–18, 2025

This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, and this year’s theme, ‘Community’ is one that truly resonates with us here at MAIN.

Being part of a supportive, understanding community is vital to mental health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a friendly conversation, access to shared resources, or simply knowing you’re not alone, community creates connection and connection is at the heart of recovery, resilience, and wellbeing.

At MAIN, we are proud to stand alongside individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. Our mission is to support people with neurodiverse conditions and mental health needs, and we believe in the power of community to uplift and empower. This week is a reminder that nobody should have to face their struggles in isolation.

We’re Here to Help.

Throughout this week and beyond, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and offering our support to those who need it most. Whether you’re seeking information, resources, or someone to talk to, MAIN is here for you.

Please visit our website at www.iammain.org.uk to learn more about what we do and how we can support you or your loved ones.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s build a stronger, kinder, more connected community.
#togetherraisingsmiles

 

Mental Health Week 2025

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Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 – We’re Here to Help

May 12–18, 2025

This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, and this year’s theme, ‘Community’ is one that truly resonates with us here at MAIN.

Being part of a supportive, understanding community is vital to mental health and wellbeing. Whether it’s a friendly conversation, access to shared resources, or simply knowing you’re not alone, community creates connection and connection is at the heart of recovery, resilience, and wellbeing.

At MAIN, we are proud to stand alongside individuals and families navigating life’s challenges. Our mission is to support people with neurodiverse conditions and mental health needs, and we believe in the power of community to uplift and empower. This week is a reminder that nobody should have to face their struggles in isolation.

We’re Here to Help.

Throughout this week and beyond, we are committed to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and offering our support to those who need it most. Whether you’re seeking information, resources, or someone to talk to, MAIN is here for you.

Please visit our website at www.iammain.org.uk to learn more about what we do and how we can support you or your loved ones.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s build a stronger, kinder, more connected community.
#togetherraisingsmiles

 

Blue image saying PIP

Understanding the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Process

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PIP application process

What is Personal Independence Payment?

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit in the UK designed to help people with extra living costs if they have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability. It is available to people aged 16 and over

PIP has two parts:

  1. Daily Living: Helps with everyday tasks like preparing food, washing, dressing, and managing money.
  2. Mobility: Helps with getting around, like walking or planning routes

You can receive PIP whether you are working or not, and it is not affected by your income or savings

Eligibility

You can check if you’re eligible for PIP via the government website, https://www.gov.uk/pip/eligibility

How to Apply

PIP is currently rolling out a online application you can check if this is available in your area – https://www.apply-for-pip.dwp.gov.uk/eligibility/check-if-eligible

You can start a claim for PIP via post to Freepost DWP PIP 1

However, it may take longer to receive a decision as they will request that you fill out a personal details form before they can send you the claim form.

You can also start a claim via phone, we would advise setting aside around an hour for this as you may have to wait in a queue, you can have someone to support you with this call however they will request your consent to speak to them

Telephone: 0800 917 2222 Textphone: 0800 917 7777

If you cannot hear or speak on the phone, Relay UK can support Relay UK: 18001 then 0800 917 2222 British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer – find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet Calling from abroad: +44 191 218 7766 Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm

What will happen

They will request the following personal details:

· Your contact details, for example telephone number

· Your date of birth

· Your National Insurance number, if you have one (you can find this on letters about tax, pensions and benefits)

· Your bank or building society account number and sort code

· Your doctor or health worker’s name, address and telephone number

· Dates and addresses for any time you’ve spent in a care home or hospital

· Dates for any time you spent abroad for more than 4 weeks at a time, and the countries you visited

 

Once you have completed this you will be sent a form to fill out detailing your condition/disability, MAIN can provide you with an evidence letter to be sent back alongside this, please give at least two weeks notice for this. This support is for people who are accessing MAIN services.

When completing the form

  • Keep in mind how your condition impacts you on your worst day.
  • If your condition is a hidden disability, ensure your expand on your answers
  • Get someone you know or professional to look over your answers
  • There is a lot of guidance on Citizen’s Advice website

You will be given a deadline for returning the form however if you need more time you need to contact PIP to request this.

You may then require an assessment this may be in person, over the phone or via video call, following this a decision will be made and you will be sent a letter explaining it.

Should you not be happy with the decision you have the right to appeal. There is more guidance on the appeal process here 

 

 

Universal Credit logo on screen

Applying for Universal Credit

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Applying for Universal Credit

You can apply for universal credit online; you will have 28 days to complete the application form so it is best to have all the information you need at hand.

You can check if you are eligible for Universal credit – https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/eligibility

You can also make an appointment with Citizen’s Advice to discuss making a claim as they may be able to support you.

If you live with a partner, you must both submit a claim even if your partner does not meet the eligibility requirements as the outcome will depend on your household income and savings, you must apply separately and link the accounts later.

 

To apply for Universal Credit you will need:

· Your bank, building society or credit union account details

· An email address

· Access to a phone

You will also need proof of your identity:

· Driving licence

· Passport

· Debit or credit card

· Payslip or P60

 

If you don’t have these you will need to contact the helpline or citizens advice may be able to support

· Universal Credit helpline

· Telephone: 0800 328 5644

· Welsh language: 0800 328 1744

· Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 328 5644

· British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer – find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet

· Textphone: 0800 328 1344

· Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm

 

You will also need to provide information about:

· Your housing, for example how much rent you pay

· Your earnings, for example payslips

· Your National Insurance number, if you have one

· Other benefits you get

· Any disability or health condition that affects your work

· How much you pay for childcare if you want help with childcare costs

· Your savings and any investments, like shares or a property that you rent out

 

You may be asked to attend an appointment with the universal credit team if they need more information or if they cannot verify your identity, this may be over the phone or in person at a jobcentre.

You will need to agree to a ‘claimant commitment’ before receiving any universal credit, you will have a meeting usually at the jobcentre to discuss this, you may be required to look for work or to look to increase your current income however this depends on the information provided and whether they assess you as being able to work, you will be supported by a ‘work coach’ if you are required to look for work and may need to attend appointments.

You will have an online account to manage your claim where you can access messages.

MAIN can provide an evidence letter to support your application for universal credit if you are accessing support. Please give at least 2 weeks notice for this.