Tag Archive for: Event

Exciting Updates at MAIN

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Exciting Updates at MAIN

There’s lots happening at MAIN as we continue to develop and improve our space for the autistic, neurodivergent and learning disabled community.

We are excited to share that our sunken trampoline has been delivered and will be installed on 22nd April, creating a safe and sensory-friendly space for movement, regulation, and fun.

Alongside this, our boiler replacements are underway, helping us improve comfort, reliability, and energy efficiency across the building.

Our community garden and allotment area is also taking shape, becoming a calm and welcoming outdoor space where people can connect with nature, learn new skills, and take part in meaningful activities.

We are incredibly proud of the progress being made and grateful for all the support we continue to receive. Every improvement helps us create a more inclusive, accessible, and engaging environment for everyone at MAIN.

#togetherraisingsmiles

 

 

Christmas Tips for our Autistic & Neurodiverse Community

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Christmas Tips for Our Autistic & Neurodiverse Community

Christmas can be magical… and a little overwhelming sometimes.  Here are some gentle ideas to make it easier and more enjoyable:

✨ Take it slow
No need to dive straight into the Christmas chaos. Add decorations or try festive activities gradually—one small thing at a time can make a big difference.

Plan what feels good
Knowing what’s happening and who will be there can make things calmer. Think about meals, events, or quiet time for yourself.  Your plan can be as simple or detailed as you like.

Look after yourself

Bring comfort items: earplugs, fidget toys, or a cosy hoodie.

Have snacks you like, festive food doesn’t have to be tricky.

Take breaks whenever you need.

Presents your way
Make a wish-list for yourself, and keep a simple list of gifts you want to give. No pressure—just a little help so everyone knows what makes you happy.

Create your own traditions
Your Christmas can be anything you want—your meal, your decorations, your activities. You don’t have to do it the “usual way.”

Feeling lonely? That’s okay too

Treat yourself to your favourite food, film, or creative project.

Call or video chat with friends or family.

Volunteer or join a community event if you want to meet people.

Join our MAIN Chat Group!
Our next online session is 17th December. Email us if you’d like joining instructions info@iammain.org.uk – we’d love you to be part of our group!

Remember: Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful or “perfect.” You can make it calm, joyful, and totally yours.

The Autism Act 2009 and the new autism strategy – Time to Deliver

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Let’s hope this actually does what it says on the tin, real, meaningful support for our autistic & neurodiverse community.

The House of Lords committee has just published their report “Time to deliver: The Autism Act 2009 and the new autism strategy”, calling for urgent, concrete action.

They highlight that more than 200,000 people are currently waiting for autism assessments.

They’re demanding a costed, deliverable plan for the next strategy (which needs to launch by July 2026) with real accountability.

They also stress the need for meaningful involvement of autistic people in every stage of designing and delivering this strategy.
UK Parliament Committees

Training must be expanded for public-facing staff, and there must be better support for autistic people in the criminal justice system.
UK Parliament Committees

Why this matters:
For too long, policy has been made for autistic people not with them. According to the report, successive governments have failed to deliver on real change. This isn’t just about “nice words” it’s about building a system that works, assessment, support, employment, health, justice all of it.

https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/770/autism-act-2009-committee/news/210570/autism-act-committee-report-publication/

Thank you Stockton City The Smoggies Football Club

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A Huge Thank You from MAIN!

This weekend, MAIN Charity, which supports autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled and complex needs individuals from 5 years upwards, were honoured to be welcomed to a fantastic charity football match organised by Dalton Storey, a young man who truly shines with enthusiasm and care for his community. ⚽

Congratulations to Stockton City ‘The Smoggies’ for winning the game, and a massive thank you to everyone who came along and helped raise £225.95 from ticket sales on the door!

But Dalton didn’t stop there, he also organised a brilliant Race Night at The Moline Cross, raising a further £100,00, to support our amazing charity.

Special thanks also go to:
Linda Dickinson, Interim Chair and Trustee, who came along in support
My lovely granddaughter Laila, who braved the weather to cheer on the teams
Leanne and Tracey for attending the Race Night and showing their support

It’s heart warming to see such great people coming together with love and dedication to support MAIN.

#ThankYou #CommunitySpirit #CharitySupport #Neurodiversity #TeamMAIN #Fundraising #TogetherRaisingSmiles

Enjoying Guy Fawkes Safely

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Guy Fawkes Night –

Tips for Our Neurodiverse Community

 

It’s nearly Guy Fawkes Night!
This means there will be fireworks, loud bangs, bright lights, and crowds.

Some people find fireworks fun and exciting
Others might find them loud, bright, or scary
All feelings are OK

 

Here are some ideas to help you feel safe and calm:

Protect your ears
Fireworks can be very loud.
You can wear ear defenders, headphones, or earplugs.

 

Look after your eyes
If bright lights bother you, try wearing sunglasses or stay where it’s darker.

 

Stay in a safe space
You don’t have to go outside.
You can stay indoors, watch from a window, or do something else you enjoy.

 

Plan ahead
Find out when fireworks will happen near you.
Knowing what to expect can make it easier.

 

Tell someone how you feel
You can say, “The noise makes me uncomfortable.”
Friends, family, or support staff can help you find what works best.

 

Look after pets too
Animals can also get scared, close windows and curtains to help them feel safe.

 

Use calming tools
Try deep breathing, fidget toys, weighted blankets, or calming music.

 

 

❤️ Remember: You don’t have to join in.
It’s OK to do what feels right for you.

 

Let’s make this Guy Fawkes Night safe, calm, and comfortable for everyone

Image with green heart in caring hand saying here to help

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

Image with green heart in caring hand saying here to help

February 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 February, you can book a 30 minute- one hour slot 

Monday 3rd Feb – 1pm-3pm
Wednesday 5th Feb 1pm-3pm
Monday 10th  Feb 1pm-3pm
Friday 14th Feb 1pm-2pm
Monday 17th Feb 10am-12 noon
Wednesday 19th Feb -10am-12 noon
Friday 21st Feb -1pm-2pm
Monday 24th – 10am -12 noon
Friday 28th Feb – 10am-12 noon

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

Image with green heart in caring hand saying here to help

January 2025 -Mental Health Bookable 1:1 Sessions

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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 January, you can book a 30 minute- one hour slot 

3rd January- 10am-2pm

10th January- 10am-12

13th January- 12:30-2:30pm

15th January 1pm-2pm

20th January 10am-12

22nd January 1pm-3pm

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

Image with green heart in caring hand saying here to help

December 2024 -Mental Health Bookable 1:1 Sessions

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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 December

Monday 2nd December – 12.30pm-2.30pm
Wednesday 4th December – 10am-12pm
Friday 6th December – 2pm-3pm
Wednesday 11th December – 10am-12pm
Tuesday 24th December – 11am-1pm
Friday 27th December – 10.00am-12.00pm

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

Image with green heart in caring hand saying here to help

November -Mental Health Workshops

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Here to Help: Emotional Recognition & Management Sessions

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 October 

Friday 8th November- 10am-12 noon – Understanding Happiness

Friday 15th November- 10am-12 noon- Understanding Anxiety and Anger

Friday 29th November- 10am-12 noon- Understanding Sadness

Drop in Sessions 

Monday 4th November- 12:30-2:30pm

Monday 11th November- 12-1pm

Monday 18th November- 12-2pm

Monday 25th November- 11am-12 noon

All sessions are suitable for anyone aged 14+ years.

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

You can access more information, resources and support here

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