Tag Archive for: Independence Support

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 

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

main event poster

Join us for our Grand Opening

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Join us for our Grand Opening

Join Us for the Grand Opening of the Pathway to Independence Centre!

We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of our Pathway to Independence Centre on 14th February 2025. This special day marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we would love for you to be a part of it.

We warmly invite all families, clients, professionals, and supporters to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion. The event will feature inspiring speeches, delightful refreshments, and a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

Event Details:

  • Date: 14th February 2025
  • Time: 10am
  • Location: MAIN, The Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6EN

Come and be a part of this wonderful celebration. Your presence will make the day even more special as we embark on this new chapter together.

We look forward to seeing you there!

main event poster

Please email to book on at mainadminsupport@iammain.org.uk

Bright yellow with images of work men with construction hats to show our building is under construction

Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN- Update 5

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Pathway to Independence Centre: Final Sneak Peek Before Our Grand Opening!

We are thrilled to share the last sneak peek of the Pathway to Independence Centre before our grand opening launch event, which we hope to arrange around February. Stay tuned for more details in our upcoming newsletter!

In the meantime, please enjoy this short video from our CEO, Heather Whyman, showcasing some of the key features and the incredible progress we’ve made so far.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Pathway to Independence Centre soon!

 

 

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress

Bright yellow with images of work men with construction hats to show our building is under construction

Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN- Update 4

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Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN

Exciting Updates from MAIN!

I wanted to share some exciting updates on the Pathways to Independence Centre:

  • Lighting: The lights are nearly fully installed.
  • Reception Area: Work has begun, including the wheelchair-accessible front desk.
  • Toilets: The passageway toilets have been updated.
  • Kitchen: We aim to start the kitchen fittings by the end of this week.
  • Plastering: Completed, and both false walls have been put in place.

A huge thank you to everyone involved, including P&HS Architects, JPS LTD, Castle Construction, and many more. You are all MAIN’s SUPER HEROES!

Visual concept of the room Visual concept of the room Visual concept of the room Reception blue print of the front Blueprints of the area being updated Colourscheme

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress

Bright yellow with images of work men with construction hats to show our building is under construction

Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN- Update 3

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Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN

Exciting Updates from MAIN!

We invite you to watch our latest video where our CEO, Heather Whyman, gives an overview of the progress we’ve made this week. We are currently 8 days into our project and have achieved the following milestones:

  • Radiator Pipes Installed: The pipes for the radiators are now in place.
  • Ceiling Completed: The ceiling work is finished.
  • Electrical Work: Our electrician is focusing on lighting and access.
  • Plastering: The plasterer will be on-site tomorrow.
  • Kitchen Installation: The kitchen fitting is scheduled for next week.
  • Planning for False Wall: Ongoing planning for a false wall in our bedroom.

In the video, Heather demonstrates where everything will be placed and provides more details on our progress

 

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress

colour swatches all natural browns beiges and light calm bluey greens

Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN- Update 2

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Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN

Exciting news! The deliveries for our renovations have arrived, and we are one step closer to expanding and developing our Pathways to Independence centre.

colour swatches all natural browns beiges and light calm bluey greens

We have another exciting update for our Pathways to Independence centre! Here’s a sneak peek at the colour theme for the centre and reception area.

Thoughtful Design:

Although MAIN has extensive experience, we recently attended a conference focused on interior design for autistic individuals. This has helped us ensure that our new features are not only appropriate but also create a calm and welcoming environment with reduced barriers.

We are committed to making our centre a place where everyone feels comfortable and supported. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to make progress!

 

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress

Thumbnail asking for donations. You can do this on our website

See our new Fundraising page!

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Please support us in achieving our goals

We are excited to announce the launch of our brand new fundraising page on our website! As a charity, we rely on the generous donations and fundraising efforts of our wonderful community to continue our vital work.

Our current aspirations include upgrading our facilities, reaching more families and purchasing a new minibus. With your support, we can make these dreams a reality and continue to make a positive impact.

Please visit our fundraising page here to learn more about our goals and how you can help. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to achieving our mission.

Thank you for your continued support and generosity.

Warm regards,

MAIN

 

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress

White good deliveries

Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN- Update 1

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Exciting Renovations Underway at MAIN

Exciting news! The deliveries for our renovations have arrived, and we are one step closer to expanding and developing our Pathways to Independence centre.

Large brown packages White good deliveries White good deliveries

What’s Coming:

  • Disability Accessible Sinks and Cookers: Ensuring everyone can participate in kitchen activities.
  • Teaching Hob Island: A central feature for cooking demonstrations and lessons.
  • Washers and Dryers: For practical laundry skills.
  • Ironing Board: To complete our laundry room setup.

Here’s a sneak peek of all the boxes ready to be installed once the foundation is complete. We can’t wait to see these new features in action and the positive impact they will have on our community.

Thank you for your continued support and patience during this exciting time of growth and improvement

 

 

Please sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date with our progress