Tag Archive for: #TogetherRaisingSmiles

MAIN need a Quiet Space

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Help Us Build a Lifeline — MAIN’s Quiet Room Is Within Reach

At MAIN, we see every day how powerful the right environment can be for a child or young person in crisis. For some, a moment of overwhelm can feel like a storm they can’t escape. What they need isn’t punishment or restraint, they need calm. They need safety. They need a space designed with their needs, not their behaviours, at the centre.

And right now, we’re closer than ever to making that space a reality.

Over the last few months, individuals, families, local businesses and community partners have blown us away with their generosity. From sponsored walks (including staff dressed-up as old ladies!) to young Henry’s inspiring fundraising journey, every single person has helped us take huge steps toward creating our purpose-built Quiet Room — a safe, padded, sensory-considerate space where autistic, neurodivergent and learning-disabled young people can regulate without risk of harm.

We’ve raised an incredible £19,485 so far.

But to complete the essential preparatory work,  the builder stage that must be done before installation, we still need £20,000.

With padded Duratex walls, a calming digital skylight and specialist equipment including a donated Doodle Pod from UK Pods, this Quiet Room will transform lives. It will prevent crisis from becoming chaos. It will help young people find peace in their hardest moments. And it will give families, staff and the wider community a space that supports emotional safety and wellbeing.

This Christmas, we’re asking local businesses and supporters to stand with us.

If you or your organisation is choosing a cause to support this year, please consider helping us finish the Quiet Room. Your donation isn’t just funding a room — it’s giving children and young people the dignity, calm and compassion they deserve.

To donate – please follow the link on our website.

Below is the full news article as published, and we are so proud to share the incredible support that’s helping us turn this dream into a much-needed reality.

read full article here

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

At MAIN, we believe in YOUR ability

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MAIN are seeking dedicated, caring individuals to join our team, as Personal Assistants either within our clubs / groups or supporting young people in the community, offering flexible hours that suit your lifestyle, alongside great opportunities for growth and development.

Remuneration – National Minimum Mage (NMS)
Weekend work is a requirement

MAIN – Empowering Difference, Inspiring Inclusion

Who We Are
MAIN exists to empower autistic and neurodivergent children, young people, and their families to reach their full potential.
We believe every individual deserves to be understood, celebrated, and included, not just supported. For over 23 years, MAIN has worked alongside children, young people, and adults who are autistic, neurodivergent, awaiting diagnosis, or have a learning disability or complex need.  We focus on abilities, not labels, helping people grow in confidence, build life skills, and experience genuine belonging in their communities. What We Do –

  • MAIN offers a wide range of personalised, centre and community-based support designed to empower individuals and families:
    One-to-One Support: Tailored sessions that help children and young people build independence and confidence in real-world settings.
  • Activity & Social Groups: Fun, inclusive clubs including Adventurers, Explorers, Tweens & Teens, and Youth Groups, and much more; where friendships, confidence, and new experiences grow.
  • Advice & Guidance: Compassionate, practical support to help families navigate education, diagnosis, and daily life.
  • 16+transition
  • Adult Day Service – providing a welcoming and nurturing provision of support that is focused, practical and above all FUN!

    • Our Vision
    A world where everyone, regardless of neurotype or ability,  is empowered to reach their full potential, embraced for their uniqueness, and included fully in all aspects of society.

    Our Promise
    At MAIN, we see the person first.
    We work alongside you, not around you.
    Together, we build the confidence, skills, and connections that help every individual and every family thrive.

    Please contact MAIN by sending an email to serviceteam@iammain.org.uk; or complete the enquiry form online.

    Enjoying Halloween Safely

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    Enjoying Halloween Safely: Tips for Autistic Individuals and Families
    Halloween can be a fun and creative time of year, costumes, decorations, and treats galore! But for many autistic and neurodiverse children and adults, it can also bring changes in routine, unexpected noises, and social pressure that make the day feel overwhelming.
    At MAIN, we believe everyone should be able to take part in Halloween in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help make the festivities safe, accessible, and fun for all:
    1. Plan ahead
    Talk through what to expect on Halloween — whether that’s trick-or-treating, attending an event, or staying home to hand out sweets. Using a visual schedule or social story can help reduce anxiety and make the evening more predictable.
    2. Choose comfortable costumes
    Costumes don’t have to be elaborate! Soft fabrics, tag-free clothing, or even themed pyjamas can make dressing up more sensory-friendly. The most important thing is feeling comfortable and confident.
    3. Set boundaries
    It’s okay to skip parts of Halloween that don’t feel right. You might choose to visit only a few houses, go out earlier when it’s quieter, or celebrate at home with a film and some treats.
    4. Prepare for sensory challenges
    Loud sounds, flashing lights, and crowds can be overwhelming. Bring noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, or fidget tools if they help. You can also plan “quiet breaks” in a calm space.
    5. Support inclusive trick-or-treating
    Consider using or recognising autism-friendly signs or blue pumpkins that signal someone may communicate or participate differently. Patience and kindness go a long way in helping everyone feel included.
    6. Celebrate your way
    There’s no “right” way to do Halloween! Whether that means crafting at home, sharing treats with neighbours, or skipping the day entirely, it’s all about what feels best for you or your family.

    Join MAIN’s Board of Trustees

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    Join MAIN’s Board of Trustees – Make a Difference for Neurodiverse Lives

    Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive world? Do you believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, no matter their neurodiversity, disability, or additional needs?

    MAIN is looking for new trustees to join our Board, specifically individuals with backgrounds in Law, Human Resources, and Special Educational Needs (SEN) to help shape the future of our vital work.

    Who We Are

    MAIN is a charity dedicated to supporting autistic people, those who are neurodiverse, have learning disabilities, or additional and complex needs. Our services span from age 5 into adulthood, offering practical support, social opportunities, education, and advocacy to improve lives and remove barriers to inclusion.

    From youth groups and life skills training to adult support services and family outreach, we’re here to help people be themselves, build confidence, and live more independently.

    Why Become a Trustee?

    Joining MAIN’s Board is more than a governance role, it’s an opportunity to transform lives.

    As a trustee, you will:

    • Help steer the strategic direction of the charity

    • Ensure our services meet the needs of our community

    • Uphold our values of inclusion, respect, empowerment, and compassion

    • Offer your expertise to support good governance and ethical decision-making

    • Be part of a passionate, forward-thinking team driving real change

    Who We’re Looking For

    We’re especially interested in hearing from people with skills or professional experience in:

    ⚖️ Law

    • Governance and compliance

    • Charity law or safeguarding knowledge

    • Risk management

    ‍ Human Resources (HR)

    • Recruitment, retention, and workforce wellbeing

    • Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)

    • Organisational development

    Special Educational Needs (SEN)

    • Experience in education, EHCP processes, or local authority work

    • First-hand understanding of the challenges faced by families and young people

    • A passion for supporting learning and development in neurodiverse individuals

    We are also keen to reflect the diversity of the people we support, and warmly welcome applications from those with lived experience of autism, neurodiversity, or disability.

    If you’re interested, please email hwhyman@iammain.org.uk in the first instance with a brief introduction about yourself.

    October is ADHD Awareness Month

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    October is ADHD Awareness Month: Here’s How MAIN Can Support You

    October marks ADHD Awareness Month, a time to educate, advocate, and empower those living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or working in education, health, or social care, awareness and understanding are key to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone affected by ADHD.

    At MAIN, we believe in celebrating neurodiversity and providing meaningful, practical support for individuals and families navigating ADHD. Our goal is to create safe, understanding spaces where people can access resources, build confidence, and thrive.

    What is ADHD?

    ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels. It’s often misunderstood and can present differently in children and adults. ADHD is not a sign of laziness or lack of intelligence, it’s a unique way of thinking and processing the world.

    People with ADHD may experience:

    • Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention

    • Restlessness and impulsivity

    • Challenges with organization and time management

    • High creativity, energy, and problem-solving skills

    Understanding these traits is the first step in supporting people with ADHD to reach their full potential.

    Why ADHD Awareness Matters

    Raising awareness helps reduce stigma and ensures that those with ADHD feel seen, understood, and supported. It promotes earlier diagnosis, better access to resources, and a more inclusive society.

    This ADHD Awareness Month, MAIN stands with the ADHD community. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting someone with ADHD, or looking for a better understanding of how to help, you are not alone. We’re here to listen, guide, and support. #TogertherRaisingSmiles

    Christmas Community Magic

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    MAIN’s Christmas Fayre – Let’s Make It Magical!  November 29th 11 – 3pm

    Across 3 amazing venues –

    • MAIN – Finlay Cooper Centre, Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby TS3 6EN
    • Elizabeth House – Elizabeth Terrace, North Ormesby, TS3 6HE
    • Pennyman House – James Street, North Ormesby, TS3 6LB

    This Christmas, MAIN is celebrating all that is good by bringing our community together for a heart-warming Christmas Fayre – and we’d love your help to make it extra special!

    MAIN supports children from age 5 into adulthood who are autistic, neurodiverse, learning disabled, and/or have complex needs. This year, we’re proudly partnering with Pennyman House – sheltered accommodation for those aged 55+ – and Elizabeth House, a care home supporting older people and those affected by Alzheimer’s.

    Together, we’re creating a festive event full of joy, laughter, and community spirit – and we need your support!

    ✨ Can you donate a tombola prize? ✨

    Big or small, every donation helps us spread cheer across generations. From chocolates and wine to toys, toiletries, or vouchers – your generosity can help light up someone’s Christmas.

    Donations can be dropped off at MAIN, Finlay Cooper Centre, North Ormesby TS3 6EN

    Let’s make this Christmas unforgettable for all the amazing individuals we support. Thank you for being part of our wonderful community! ❤️

    #MAINChristmasFayre #CommunitySpirit #DonateForAGoodCause #TombolaTime

    Supported by Tees Traders Network

    Over 30 Stalls attending, lots of choice and great ideas for Christmas Gifts!

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