Tag Archive for: Complex Needs

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

Thank You – Skipton Building Society

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A heartfelt thank you to Skipton Building Society for selecting MAIN as your Charity of Choice.
We are truly grateful for your generous donation of Body Socks, which will make a meaningful difference to the children we support. Your kindness and commitment to our cause are deeply appreciated and will have a lasting impact.

In the photo are Victoria from Skipton Building Society, Josh, Heather, the CEO of MAIN and Tristan, taken in our new Pathways to Independence area , a space dedicated to helping our young people build essential life skills in a supportive environment.

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

 

Autism Act (2009) Have Your Say

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Autism Act 2009 – Committees – UK Parliament

Be a part of the story, if you are an individual, group or parent, please use your voice,

lets make a world where every autistic person has the right to live a fulfilled and happy life.

 

The committee wants to hear your views. We welcome submissions from anyone with answers to the questions in the call for evidence. You can submit evidence until Monday 2 June 2025.

Read the call for evidence before submitting

Introduction

The Autism Act 2009 Committee in the House of Lords is looking into how well the Autism Act 2009 and the Government’s autism strategy are working.

As part of this, the Committee is holding a call for evidence asking for information and views from you. To allow as much time as possible for people to respond, the call for evidence is open for two months (a longer period than usual), until 2 June 2025.

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

 

Photo of new minibus

MAIN are proud to share our new MINIBUS

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MAIN are proud to share our new MINIBUS

 

We’re excited to announce that MAIN has a brand new minibus, and we couldn’t be more thrilled!  Thanks to the incredible support of Awards for All, the National Lottery Fund, and our fantastic community, this new vehicle will make a world of difference to the people we support.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to Trust Ford, whose kindness and generosity made this possible. Their contribution means we can continue providing vital transport services to those who rely on us. A special thank you also goes to Mick from The Procurement Partnership (TPPL) for helping to connect all the dots and making this a reality.

The feedback from our children has been awesome! They’re absolutely loving the new minibus, and we’re hearing how much they enjoy the comfortable rides and the exciting features, such as above head storage racks and WIFI connectivity.

This minibus isn’t just a new vehicle—it’s a symbol of the power of community, collaboration, and the impact of generous donations. Whether it’s helping our young people attend events, access services, or simply enjoy a day out, this new addition is going to make a huge difference.

Thank you to everyone who made this happen. We’re looking forwards, to the many journeys ahead!

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

#autismmatters

#neurodiversitymatters

 

To find out more about MAIN and our services please contact us here 

Aerial Picture of MAIN

Welcome to MAIN

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Welcome to MAIN

Hello and welcome to MAIN, a Charity based in the heart of North Ormesby, dedicated to making a real difference. At MAIN, our mission is to empower our neurodiverse community, support and encourage our learning disabled community and provide a strong sense of belonging. Whether you are visiting us for the first time, a long-time supporter, or a curious observer, we want to give you a closer look at what makes us unique.

Today, we’re excited to offer you a special aerial view of our centre and take you on a virtual walk around the premises to showcase the heart and soul of what we do.

An Aerial View:  The Heart of Our Community

One of the most incredible ways to appreciate our centre is by seeing it from above. Our Charity’s building is not just a physical space—it’s a reflection of our values, of openness, and of a welcoming environment.  From an aerial view, you’ll notice the spacious layout, with large outdoor areas that invite interaction and movement. We’ve designed every inch of the building and its surroundings with our community in mind, ensuring that it feels like a safe, uplifting and happy space for everyone.

As you zoom in on the aerial shot, you’ll see how each section of the centre is interconnected. From our support service areas, to the creative activity rooms and even the quiet spaces for reflection, every part of the centre has been built to encourage connection, creativity, and personal growth.

We hope that by sharing this unique view, you’ll get a sense of how MAIN is more than just a place—it’s a community where relationships are developed and flourish.

A Walk Around the Centre: Where Change Happens

Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll find inside our centre, step by step. Our building is designed to be both functional and inviting, creating an atmosphere where our community feels valued and supported.

1. Welcome and Reception Area
As you enter, you’ll be greeted by our friendly reception team who are always ready to assist with any queries.  This is the first space where you’ll feel the warmth of our community, with clear signage to guide you through our offerings and activities.

2. Pathways to Independence
Our dedicated space. provides practical and emotional learning to our young people and adults, providing personal guidance, mentorship, and practical assistance. Whether it’s job training, financial advice, or personal development, our rooms are designed to provide a peaceful and encouraging safe space.

3. Creative and Activity Spaces
One of the cornerstones of MAIN is fostering creativity and learning. Our spacious, well-lit activity room is used for our After School Clubs, Social Groups and 1:1 P.A. support. It’s in these rooms that participants get to explore new hobbies, try out new skills, and engage in group activities that boost confidence and strengthen social bonds.

4. Quiet Reflection Spaces
Understanding the importance of mental health, we have dedicated areas within the centre for quiet reflection and relaxation. These spaces allow individuals to take a time out to help self – regulate.

5. Outdoor Areas and Green Spaces
The grounds surrounding our building are just as important as the interior. With well-maintained gardens, walking paths, seating areas and outdoor play, our outdoor spaces provide a tranquil retreat for all who visit. Whether it’s for water play or climbing frames our outdoor space offers the perfect environment to connect with nature and others, build friendships and learn to share.

#TogetherRaisingSmiles

To find out more about MAIN and our services please 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!

 

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