Fact File - Autism Family Support Oxfordshire

Transcription

Fact File
Autism services & resources
for children, young people
and families in Oxfordshire
Version: May 2014
We hope the guide useful and the information is helpful now
and in the future.
Services are constantly changing and being developed, so this
guide may not include everything or be fully up-to-date. We
encourage you to contact organisations and make your own
enquiries.
The latest version of this document is available on our website
as well as details of upcoming courses, activities, and other
news.
A guide for people aged 16 and above is also available on our
website
Please do contact us if you have any queries or details of
information which you feel should be included in this guide.
www.childrenintouch.org.uk
Email: [email protected] T: 01844 338696
Autism Family Support
c/o Thomley Hall Centre
Menmarsh Road
Worminghall, HP18 9JZ
Table of Contents
About Us - Autism Family Support ................................................... 3
Children in Touch 1978 ..................................................... 4
Courses ............................................................................................. 5
Parent Support Groups and organisations
for children with additional needs ..................................................... 6
Other parent and family support and information ........................... 14
Education ....................................................................................... 16
Colleges .......................................................................................... 18
Play and Leisure – Our Services ...................................................... 19
Play and Leisure – Other Services ................................................... 20
Funding and Benefits ...................................................................... 23
Holiday and Respite Services .......................................................... 25
Counsellors .................................................................................... 26
Books and resources ....................................................................... 26
Useful Websites .............................................................................. 27
Key:
A = Address
T = Telephone
E = Email
W Website
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W: www.childrenintouch.org.uk
E: [email protected]
T: 01844 338696
A: c/o Thomley Hall Centre, Menmarsh Road, Worminghall, HP18 9JZ
Autism Family Support (AFS)
About Us
Autism Family Support is a project of Oxfordshire charity Children in Touch.
Autism Family Support was established in 2002 to support families of children living with
autism in Oxfordshire. Nowadays funding is constantly sought to continue the project,
which supports over 1400 families across Oxfordshire.
Services available from Autism Family Support
AFS offers support if you have a child or young adult diagnosed on the autism
spectrum. We are a very small team with 3 fulltime staff but are happy to meet you to
talk through things, answer any queries about the diagnosis, look at resources and
strategies, and offer information. The project stores information and resources about
autism, local support groups, services in Oxfordshire, and is normally able to respond to
specific enquiries from parents and professionals. Feel free to contact us with any
queries. If the staff are out of the office, there is an answer-phone and mobile numbers
– please leave a message, or send an email and staff will reply as soon as possible.
Youth Groups
We run 4 weekly youth groups for people with Aspergers syndrome or high functioning
autism. Three of the groups are in Oxford and one in Abingdon in partnership with
Abingdon Hub.
The three Oxford groups are available for young people from cross Oxfordshire:
 8 -13 year olds on Saturday mornings;
13 -16 year olds on Friday evenings; and
16 - 21 years on Wednesday evenings.
The Abingdon group is run on Thursday evening and caters for 13-18 year olds in the
Abingdon/Didcot areas.
Each week a planned activity, such as a group game is offered. There is also a choice
of other activities such as sports games, a pool table, games consoles, arts & crafts,
board games etc. The older group, held on Wednesdays, aims to build confidence and
independence and organising skills. We encourage members to participate in planning,
decision-making and organise regular off-site activities.
Summer and Easter Activities
These are for young people aged 8-19 with Aspergers Syndrome/HFA. The activities
are diverse, fun and value for money. We aim to offer adequate staffing so that
parents/carers are not required to be present
Befriending Scheme
Volunteers are trained to befriend a child or young person with autism for a few hours a
fortnight. They might spend time at home or go out, depending on the needs and wishes
of the child. There is currently a waiting list for befrienders, but recruitment of new
volunteers is ongoing.
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T: 01844 338696
Autism Family Support (AFS)
Oxford Aspies (run by adults with Asperger's Syndrome, with support from Autism
Family Support)
An informal and social pub group run by adults with Asperger’s Syndrome for ‘Aspies’
aged 18 and over. This group is not staffed and attendees must be responsible for their
own travel arrangements. Meets twice a month in a pub in Oxford town centre.
Training and other services
We work with support groups, local professionals and agencies to develop services for
people with autism. We offer training and events for parents, young people and
professionals across Oxfordshire.
AFS aims to raise awareness of the needs of children and young people on the autism
spectrum throughout the county. We are always interested and concerned to hear about
particular issues affecting families across the county, so please do make contact if there
is anything you think we should be aware of or might be able to help with.
We are funded by grant making trusts, Oxfordshire County Council, donations and
fundraising events.
For Referral Forms and information about our work please visit our website
General enquiries and mailing lists:
Administrator:
Judith Payne
T: 01844 338696
Family Support Workers:
For children aged 13 & under: Becky Loveless T: 07929 379124
For young person aged 14-25: Sam Burkin
T: 07975 600625
Fundraising, development and volunteering:
Chief Executive:
Gita Lobo
T: 07929 379125
Children in Touch
The charity “Children in Touch” aims to support the therapeutic education of children in
Oxfordshire and surrounding areas. In particular it helps support the work of the
Interaction and communication bases (previously known as Autism Resource Bases)
run by Oxfordshire LEA for children with autism, and helps to develop further
therapeutic and educational services. “Children in Touch” sponsors and manages
Autism Family Support and was primarily instrumental, along with OASIS, in submitting
the successful grant application that initially funded the Autism Family Support Project
and supports the development of this project. Contact John Richer, Chair of Trustees,
[email protected].
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T: 01844 338696
Courses
We run courses for young people, parents, and professionals, which are advertised
through our mailing list, Facebook, twitter and on our website. For further details please
visit our website Homepage under Latest News
W: www.childrenintouch.org.uk or
W: www.childrenintouch.org.uk/courses/
Other Courses
Early Bird
A 3 month programme for parents of pre-school children diagnosed on the autism
spectrum. This essential course was devised by the National Autism Society (NAS but
is run locally by Oxfordshire County Council). This brings families together for daytime
group training sessions as well as having visits in the family home. It aims to help
parents to understand their child’s diagnosis, develop their child’s communication and
help parents to apply practical strategies to manage their child’s behaviour. Contact
Pam Parsons T: 01993 706460.
Early Bird Plus
This is similar to Early Bird but for parents and support staff of 5-8 year olds - contact
Jo Stevens T: 01226 779218 E: [email protected] W: www.autism.org.uk
CAMHS (Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services) run a six week Post
Diagnostic Course which is available to all families who have a child over eight years of
age with a recent diagnosis. For further information please contact your local CAMHS
service.
The National Autism Society (NAS) runs various training courses and seminars
specifically for parents. “Autism Seminars for Families” (previously known as the Help!
programme) is a series of one day seminars devised by the NAS for parents of older
children diagnosed on the autism spectrum. It gives information about autism, advice
and support, topics include Understanding Autism, Managing Anger, Sensory Needs
and Supporting Siblings.
T: 07425 624592
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T: 01844 338696
Parent Support Groups and Organisations
Please note: Autism Specific groups are marked with
.
For further information and updated details please go to the Family
Information Service directory, managed by Oxfordshire County
Council: http://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk
ACE Centre - Assistive Technology for Communication
The ability to communicate is fundamental to a basic quality of life, yet for many people effective
communication is difficult because of a physical impairment, language disorder or learning
disability. We work with people of all ages who face such challenges.
For further information T: 01865 759 800
ADHD Oxfordshire
The group offers: ADHD information, training and support for ADHD adults, for parents and for
anyone working with ADHD children. Telephone & email information & support are available via
01865 731378 or [email protected].
Monthly support group 7pm. Eynsham, last Tuesday of each month, plus occasional other
events & daytime meetings. For further details T: 01865 731378
Afasic - association for all speech impaired children
Afasic is an association for all speech impaired children. It can be hard for parents who are
worried about their child’s speech, language or communication development to find the help,
information and support they need. Afasic can help. They offer downloads, publications, local
groups, online forum. For more information T:01993 779184
Ark T Centre
The Ark T Centre is home to a whole range of ventures; art exhibitions, creative workshops,
dance and music. There’s a recording studio for young musicians, rehearsal space for theatre
and dance, a performance and concert area and studios for a group of resident artists. For
more information T:01865 396778
Aspies Parent Support Group
For Parents who have ASD (diagnosed or undiagnosed). The group provides an opportunity to
gain support, information, friendship, and to have fun. For more information please contact:
Becky E: [email protected] T:07929379124
or Shelley at the Abingdon Early Intervention Hub: T:01865 328400
Autism Champions
Autism Champions is an advisory and consultancy service, grounded in significant practical
experience, for parents, carers and professionals looking for training, advice, support and more
in relation to autism. For further information T:07810205646
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..Parent Support Groups and Organisations (continued)
Autism Oxford
Their mission is to spread awareness of the realities of life on the autism spectrum and support
the development of autism services. Autism Oxford brings together people who seek knowledge
and understanding of the autism spectrum and autistic behaviour with those best able to impart
it. They organise training events, sign post enquiries to relevant services, and manage
the Oxfordshire Autism Alert Card. For more information W: www.autismoxford.org.uk
Child Brain Injury Trust
Child Brain Injury Trust provides non-medical services to families affected by childhood acquired
brain injury across the UK. For more information T:0303 303 2248
Chiltern Centre for Disabled Children
The Chiltern Centre provides support to children and young people (aged 2 to 25) with physical
and/or learning disabilities and their families via a range of short break services. These services
can be accessed by profession/parent referral. They also host a variety of support groups. For
further information T:01491 575575
Cloud nine
Cloud Nine gives the opportunity for families with children with additional needs to meet others
in similar situations and enjoy the sensory experience, including bubble columns, touchy feely
fabrics and fibre optic lights. The sessions are sensory based session for children aged 0-5 with
special needs. They welcome parents with a disability who have pre-school aged children. The
session is not supported by therapists/specialist practitioners; however, it is run by Children’s
Centre staff with specialist knowledge. Siblings are welcome and also anyone who feels their
child would benefit from the quieter activities, for example if they are just beginning the process
of assessment, they don't need to have any diagnosis or support in place already. For further
information please contact North Abingdon Childrens Centre T:01235 523481
Commusication
A sensory music group for children under 4 years of age with additional needs. Booking is
essential. Contact Anna at Soundabout T:01844 338898
Crossroad care
Provide social, domestic and personal care to children with disabilities or to parents who have
disabilities and need support. Can provide from as little as half hour visits to 24 hour live in care.
W: http://www.oxfordshirecrossroads.org.uk/children.html
Deaf Direct
Local deaf led organisation for deaf and hard of hearing people. Clubs, forums and groups run
from the centre. Deaf Direct has a dedicated training team offering a wide range of specialist
Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language training.
W: http://www.deafdirect.org.uk/
T: 01905 746301
Down ’s Syndrome Oxford
Down’s Syndrome Oxford is organized and funded by parents and supporters to provide
information, help and activities for children with Down’s Syndrome and their families in the
Oxfordshire area. E: [email protected]
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Early Support Oxfordshire
If you are worried about any aspect of your child’s development it may be helpful to have a
conversation with your Health Visitor, GP or someone at your local children’s centre. They will
be able to advise you and signpost you to any further support that may be useful.
Requests can be made through an Early Support Programme Officer using a Single Point of
Request for Involvement form (SPORFI form). For information about the process contact your
local Early Support Programme Officer:
Central Oxfordshire – T: 01865 456726
North Oxfordshire - T: 01865 816656
South Oxfordshire - T: 01865 323555
Empowering Families
Empowering Families is a project funded by a DfE grant and delivered in Oxfordshire by Adviza
(a member of the reach for Consortium). It provides support to parents/carers of young people
aged 13 - 24 with special educational needs who have a realistic chance of moving into
employment or training. The service provides impartial information advice and guidance via a
telephone, webchat and face to face service, T:0845 408 5088.
Flexicare
Flexicare is a small local Oxfordshire charity which provides a sitting service in the homes of
families who have a child/children with severe physical and/or learning disabilities which may
include problems with mobility, feeding, breathing, communication and seizures. For more
information T:01865 321881
The Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Trust
FASD, Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Trust is an umbrella term for several diagnosis that
are all related to prenatal exposure to alcohol (i.e. while a baby is still in the womb)
T: 01608 811599 or E: [email protected] for news of local events.
The Fourteen Club of Wantage
The Fourteen Club is a independent social club for people with learning disabilities aged 14 and
over in Wantage and surrounding areas. The club meets on Monday evenings during school
term for a variety of fun social activities, such as craft, discos, cooking, games etc. The club is
run entirely by volunteers. T:01235 764504 or E: [email protected] for further information.
Gems
A Stay and Play session for families who have young children with additional needs e.g. delay
with their development or a disability. Sessions will be run in collaboration with the Early Years
Special Educational Needs Inclusion Teachers team (EYSENIT).
T:01865 243955 Elms Road
T:01865 242900 Grandpont
T:01865 767460 Marston
T:01865 559742 North Oxford
Glitter Box at the Roundabout Centre
Sensory room for under 5’s and their parents/carers. Contact The Roundabout Centre for a time
slot. T:01865 764952.
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Guideposts
Guideposts offers inclusive all round childcare in five locations around Oxfordshire, for children
and young people aged 3 – 19 years. They work from Special Schools in Witney, Abingdon,
Wheatley and Sonning Common and at the East St Family Centre in Banbury. For further
information please go to http://www.guidepoststrust.org.uk/oxfordshire/children-young-peoplesservices/all-round-holiday-after-school-clubs/
Helping Hands - support group
Helping Hands is a parent-led support group for parents and carers of disabled children. It is an
informal group with parents/carers welcome to come for a chat, some advice and/or a shoulder.
The meeting takes place at a different member's house each month. T: 01993 840925 for
further details
HIPPOs
HIPPOS is an informal support group, run by parents, for parents and carers of children (0-19
years) with special needs living in Oxfordshire. Children welcome. A member of staff from one
of the local children’s centres is available at meetings to play with children so you have a
chance to listen to talks/chat to members. E: [email protected] for further
information.
Ladygrove PODS - Ladygrove Children's Centre
Positive Opportunities for Disability and SEN diagnosed or undiagnosed. For families with
children aged 0-19 with SEN or a disability. Activities for children, information and networking for
parents. Please call Rosie on T:01235 512988 for further support.
Leys in Touch
Leys in Touch are a parent led community support group for parents and carers of children and
young people with special needs (diagnosed or undiagnosed) living in The Blackbird Leys area.
Families/parents and carers of adults with disability and neighbouring areas are very welcome.
The Leys in Touch group aims to create a friendly support group through informal get together
meetings, as well as supporting each other, working with a variety of agencies and services to
provide information and support to families. E: [email protected] for further information.
Little Sparklers - support group
A mutual support group with visiting therapists for families who have children with additional
needs. Sensory room is available by booking. T: 01235 555524
My Life My Choice
Self advocacy organisation run by and for adults with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire.
Helping people make choices about life and promoting independent living. Produces a
Newsletter 3 or 4 times a year. For your local group please call. My Life My choice also runs a
training team "Power Up", a nightclub "Stingray Club" and a cafe "My Cafe".. T:01865 204214
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National Autistic Society (NAS)
The NAS strives to provide expert advice and support to all people affected by the Autism
spectrum in the UK. Founded by parents in 1962, the NAS runs training for parents, offers
telephone information and support on all autism issues, and advocacy for education issues.
NAS: T: 020 7833 2299
Autism helpline: 0808 800 4104
Advocacy for Education: 0808 800 4102
Parent to Parent line: 0808 800 4106
W: http://www.autism.org.uk/directory
Newlife charity - foundation for disabled children
Disabled children have been at the heart of the charity since 1991. Since that time we have
become, though our work, the specialists for special children. Their needs and the needs of
their families and carers, their health and their voices are all central to the work of the charity.
Thankfully more babies and children survive conditions, accidents, infections and cancers; we
see more children live through these experiences and therefore widened our remit to include all
children with significant disabilities. T: 01543 462777 Nurse Services Helpline: T:0800 902 0095
OASIS
Oasis are a friendly charity run by parent volunteers for those bringing up children and young
adults on the Autistic Spectrum. They welcome all parents, carers and individuals and can cater
for all aspects of the spectrum; this includes classic Autism, Aspergers Syndrome and other
related conditions such as Sensory Processing Disorder and Developmental Delay.
OASIS aims to create a supportive community through family events, informal coffee and chat
groups, evening speaker meetings and regular updates on our website of county wide events
and information that will be useful to all.
Please contact the team on
T:07900 144493,
E: [email protected],
W: http://www.oasisonline.org.uk/
Opportunity Group - Ladygrove Children's Centre
Opportunity group is a small invitation only session which encourages positive interactions and
development through play. The session promotes inclusion and multi-agency working. The
group aims to reach families that require additional support and / or children who have
additional needs. Please call Rosie on T:01235 512988 for more details.
Oxfordshire Dyslexia Association
Oxfordshire Dyslexia Association aims to support children and adults with dyslexia, and their
families:
They provide information, advice and names of specialist teachers; support for teachers, adults
with dyslexia, and support for parents of children with dyslexia.
They provide advice to students in employment training, further or higher education.
They liaise with the local education authority over all matters related to dyslexic people and their
education. Their aim is to ensure that teachers are able to recognise dyslexia and schools are
able to take suitable action in good time. Contact details are:
T:01865 721130,
W: http://www.oxdys.org.uk/
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Oxfordshire Family Support Network
Information, advice and support by families for families of people with learning disabilities.
Set up by family carers who wanted to use their experience to help others in the same situation
we strive to improve the lives of people with learning disabilities and their families.
E: [email protected], W: http://www.oxfsn.org.uk/
Parent Carers' Voice
Parent Carers' Voice provides parents and carers and children with additional needs with an
opportunity to give their views on issues that affect them and their children. For further
information:
T: 01235 520440,
W: http://www.carersvoiceoxfordshire.org/
Parents Talking Aspergers
Based near Banbury for Parents of children and young people with Aspergers Syndrome.
W:http://www.parents-talking-aspergers.co.uk/
Parent Support in the South
A parent support group run to cover Henley on Thames and the surrounding areas. For dates
and further information please E: [email protected]
SAPS (South Abingdon Parent Support)
A Support Group for parents of children with special needs (diagnosed or undiagnosed).
The groups will be organised into two formats:
1) Coffee and chat sessions with a surgery run by Becky Loveless (30 min slots booked at the
group in advance)
2) Speaker events – a professional coming to talk about a specific subject lasting 30/45 minutes
followed by a chance to ask questions and share
Please contact Denise for further details:
T:0845 6029279 / 01865 328400 or E: [email protected]
Parents of Special Children (POSCH)
Parents of Special Children (POSCH) is a group for parents/carers with children who
have special needs. Speaking to other parents in similar situations can make such a difference.
The aim of this informal group is to offer parents/carers a child friendly venue to drink, and chat.
T:01869 320553 or T:01869 249604
Parents of Special Children (POSCH) Plus - Bicester
POSCH Plus is a parent support group for parents with children and young people who have
additional needs. This is aimed at parents with a child/children who are in year 6 primary school
to 18 years of age.
The group runs fortnightly on a Monday 9:30-11:30
A chance to hear from guest speakers relevant to having an older child with additional needs
alongside special events such as reflexology and lunches. This is also a good opportunity to
hear from other parents and their experiences alongside receiving support from one another.
Please contact Bicester Early Intervention Hub. T: 01869 320553
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Play and Chat - support group in Banbury
Parent and Child group for Autistic Spectrum and/or Sensory Processing Disorder. Parent led
group, gives families the opportunity to meet other parents in a similar situation and for children
to play in a safe, friendly environment. Siblings welcome. E : [email protected] for
more details
Seahorses - support group in Henley.
Seahorses is a supportive and interactive support group with input from SEN professionals.
Please call or if you need any special arrangements or wish to book the sensory room on
T: 01491 577414 / 07876 597630
Sensory Impairment Team
Specialist services for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or are visually impaired. Hearing
impaired: T: 01865 894925SMS: 07713329501 Visual impaired: T: 01865 894935
E: [email protected] or [email protected]
T: 01865 894784
Shift
Shift is an informal group of parents and carers of children with additional needs. Meets
fortnightly in term time to chat about the joys and difficulties of parenting a child with additional
needs. Meet at North Abingdon Children's Centre. For further details contact Sally via:
E: [email protected] W: http://shift-abingdon.org.uk
Short Breaks for Disabled Children
Activities and support for disabled children ranging from an hour to a week residential holiday.
Oxfordshire County Council commissions a variety of organisations to provide short breaks for
disabled children and their families.
Short breaks provide opportunities for disabled children and young people to spend time away
from their families and have fun; they also provide respite for families, giving them a break from
their caring responsibilities
Small Steps, Big Strides - support group
Small Steps, Big Strides is a FREE support group for black and minority ethnic families with
disabled children and young people living in Oxfordshire. For parents who have a child with a
physical or learning disability as well as those with complex needs such as Autism. The support
group also enables families to access additional services within their community. Core
Children’s Services is working in partnership with Oxfordshire County Council to deliver locally
based support such as: weekly support group, parenting programmes, family activity way days
and community based activity groups. For details please contact:
T: 01296 628300 or E: or [email protected]
SOS - Support our Sparklers
SOS is a group especially for parents of children with additional needs. This is an informal group
where you can meet other parents, support each other, share information and get help with
filling in forms. At Cuddesdon Corner Children's Centre, in Blackbird Leys. Please call on
01865 779615
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SPACE - support group in Witney
A support group for parents of disabled children, children with impairments and children that
receive additional support in school or preschool. The Children’s Centre will be providing
activities for children at this group on a monthly basis
For Further details please contact Springfield school on T: 01993 881134.
Squirrels in Oxford
A stay and play session for families of young children with additional needs.
Please call T: 01865 777286 for further details.
Yellow Submarine
Provide opportunities for people with learning disabilities and their families and carers to benefit
from subsidised respite breaks. They organise supported day activities and residential holidays
for people with learning disabilities and make use of this time to facilitate friendships, build
confidence, and provide a fun and memorable experience.
T: 01865 236119, E: [email protected]
W: http://www.yellowsubmarine.org.uk
Beyond our Borders....................
Buckinghamshire and Berkshire
Berkshire Autistic Society (BAS), Reading
T: 0118 959 4594
E : mailto:[email protected]
East Berkshire Autism Support Group (EBASG)
T: 01628 625625
NAS South Bucks, High Wycombe & Aylesbury.
Free family events, speaker evenings & newsletter.
Contact Heather Wildsmith
T: 07861 288 158
W : www.autismonline.org.uk
NAS Aylesbury Vale - Branch Officer Rachael Judd,
Autism Concern
T: 0808 808 9090
W: www.autismconcern.net
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Other Parent and Family Support
Oxfordshire Services Directory
This is a Guide to services, organisations and activities for children, young people and their
families in Oxfordshire. T: 08452 26 26 36 W: www.oxfordshireservicesdirectory.org.uk
South and Vale Carers Centre
They provide advice, information and support for Carers, home visits, training courses and trips
to give carers a break. Small grants are available, dependant on funding. Some centres have a
specific Young Carers project, offering support and social events for children who are
undertaking caring duties for a sibling or relative. For further information please go to
W: http://www.svcarers.org.uk/.
Cerebra
Cerebra is a unique charity set up to help improve the lives of children with brain related
conditions through research, education and directly supporting the children and their carers.
The charity are able to offer support in the following areas:
Grants
Library
CIC Custom made equipment
Holiday Home
Sleep Service
Speech and Language Therapy
Stress Helpline
Personal Portfolios
Freecycle
Legal Help
W: http://www.cerebra.org.uk/English/gethelp/library/Pages/default.aspx for further details.
Oxfordshire Family Support Network
Run by parents of children and adults with Learning Disabilities, offering information about local
and national services and issues, support, training and advocacy for families. W:
www.oxfsn.co.uk Contact Gail, T: 01865 890326 or 0772 634 7395 or E: [email protected]
Oxfordshire Early Intervention Hubs
The Early Intervention Service offers high quality early intervention and specialist services to
children, young people and families with additional and complex needs, both through our staff
and across partner agencies. For further information please go to
W: http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/early-intervention-service
Contact a Family
Contact a family is the only UK charity providing support and advice to parents whatever the
medical condition of their child. Can often put families in touch with each other. Helpline 0808
808 3555 Freephone for parents and families (10am-4pm, Mon-Fri)
E: [email protected] W: www.cafamily.org.uk
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... Other Parent and Family Support (continued)
Oxfordshire Family Information Service
Information and advice on childcare & costs, plus an online directory of organisations and
services. Support to claim DLA, working parents, family & parenting support, play & sport for
children, and working with children, jobs, & training. Contact helpline T: 08452 26 26 36
W: www.oxonfis.org.uk - see this web site for a free downloadable copy of ‘Your Child and
You’ – lots of very useful local information.
Challenging Behaviour Foundation
Putting people living and working with challenging behaviour in touch with each other, offering
information & support
E: [email protected] T: 01634 838739
MENCAP
Free information line T;0808 808 1111, W: www.mencap.org.uk information, parents forum and
site for young people. Local societies: Oxford District Mencap (which runs a residential summer
holiday scheme for children and separate adults week) South-West Oxon Mencap & South
Oxon Mencap
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Education
Parent Partnership, Oxfordshire
Independent Special Educational Needs information, advice & support for parents, help with
communication between parents and schools, trained volunteer Independent Parent
Supporters, drop-in sessions. T: 01865 810516 or E: [email protected]
Oxfordshire Education Services (LEA)
Oxfordshire County Council
W: www.oxfordshire.gov.uk
EYSENIT (Early Years Special Educational Needs Inclusion Teachers)
Support parents and professionals; help them to meet the needs of children with special
educational needs. Contact Area Offices - Cherwell & West: 01993 706460, Oxford,
Botley/Cumnor, Wheatley: T: 01865 456722; South & Vale T:01865 3323556
The Special Educational Needs Network team
The team respond to requests for a formal assessment of special educational needs providing
and managing the statutory process, including changes of placement.
They work with parents, health care and voluntary organisations to achieve high quality
assessments and statements.
They monitor and review provision for learners aged 2 -25 years to ensure that their needs are
being met according to their statements. Contact Details:
North Team T: 01865 816672,
City Team T: 08450 50766
South Team T: 01865 815255
Educational Pychology
Educational Psychologists (EPs) have training and expertise to assess and provide
strategies to enable children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
and Additional Educational Needs (AEN) to make good progress. EPs provide a
distinctive psychological contribution at an individual, group or whole school level.
Communication & Interaction Service (Service for Autism)
All the below services are part of the Communication & Interaction Service. Offers a range of
interventions, advice & support to children, young people, parents, school staff & other
supporting agencies.
Specialist Team Manager: Alison Blaylock. T: 01865 456702.
Administration: 01865 456704
 Communication & Interaction Resource Bases
For children on the autism spectrum who have a Statement of Special Needs (‘statement’).
The bases are attached to mainstream schools, enabling supported inclusion in mainstream
classes as appropriate.
 Advisory Teachers
Specialist teachers visit schools to observe children and provide autism-specific advice to
teachers on supporting individual children. Service must be requested by any state school.
 Independent Learning Team (ILT)
Supporting children who have been, or are at risk of being, excluded or refusing school.
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... Education (continued)
National Information & Support
IPSEA – Independent Panel for Special Education Advice
National charity offering free independent advice to parents of children with Special Educational
Needs. Telephone advice and tribunal support from volunteers, many being parents who have
been helped by IPSEA
T: 0800 0184 016 W: www.ipsea.org.uk
National Autistic Society
Helpline for education advice & advocacy on education matters
T:0845 070 4002 W: www.nas.org.uk
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Colleges
There are a number of residential colleges in England and Wales catering for young people
across the autism spectrum. For details, please see www.natspec.org.uk
Abingdon and Witney College AS team
Offer specialist support for students attending the college, including a quiet room and support.
Contact: Helen Hunt, Autism Specialist Team, Abingdon & Witney College, Oxfordshire SENSS
T: 07824 626678 W: www.abingdon-witney.ac.uk
Oxford and Cherwell Valley College
Full and part time courses based at Oxford, Blackbird Leys and Banbury sites.
W: www.ocvc.ac.uk
Henley College
Sixth Form College for Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire offering A Levels and
vocational diploma courses. W: http://www.henleycol.ac.uk/henleycollege/home.html
Berkshire College of Agriculture
Offering post 16 courses including A Levels and vocational subjects to those on Berkshire,
Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Located near Maidenhead but providing a subsidised bus
service to some areas of South Oxfordshire. W: www.bca.ac.uk
Oakley College
Run by MacIntyre - for students on the autism spectrum aged 16-25 years. It is a franchise of
Abingdon & Witney College. T:01844 338475 E: [email protected]
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Play and Leisure
Managed by Autism Family Support
Summer and Easter Activities for 8-18 year olds with Aspergers Syndrome / High
Functioning Autism.
A variety of community-based activities which are fully staffed and focus on having fun, trying
something new, and building friendships. Contact Gita Lobo, Project Manager: 07929 379125
or [email protected]
Youth Groups for 8-21 year olds with Aspergers Syndrome
3 Youth Groups in Oxford – available for members from across Oxfordshire.
1 Youth Group in Abingdon – in partnership with Abingdon Early Intervention Hub, available for
13 – 18 year olds living in the Abingdon and Didcot area.
Referrals for youth groups can be made through our website:
W: www.childrenintouch.org.uk/children-and-young-people/
Befriending Scheme
We recruit and train volunteers and match them with families, to provide a children, young
person, or adult a Befriender and enjoy play and leisure activities. E: [email protected]
Oxford Aspies’ (run by adults with Asperger's Syndrome, with support from
volunteers)
An informal social pub group run by adults with Asperger’s Syndrome for ‘Aspies’ aged 18 and
over. This group is not staffed and attendees must be responsible for their own travel
arrangements and attend on their own or with a carer if required. Meets twice a month in a pub
in Oxford town centre.
Contact Sam Burkin, T: 07975 600625, E: mailto:[email protected]
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Play and Leisure
Managed by other organisations
For further information and updated details on services go to the
Family Information Service Directory, managed by Oxfordshire
County Council: http://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk
OASIS Playdays
OASIS Support Group arranges playdays for every school holidays. There are a variety of
subsidised play days over the summer. Activities for all children with an Autistic Spectrum
Disorder – parents/carers must accompany children and siblings are welcome. See their W:
www.oasisonline.org.uk
Thomley Activity Centre
A recreational facility for children and young people with disabilities, their families and friends.
Includes sensory room, art, indoor activity centre and outdoor activity, swings.
Menmarsh Road, Worminghall, Bucks, HP18 9JZ W: www.thomleyhall.org
KEEN
Oxford University students offering sporting and recreational activities for children with special
needs in Oxfordshire. T: 01865 794198, E: [email protected]
Guideposts Trust
Inclusive clubs supporting children with a range of disabilities aged 3-19 in Abingdon,
Banbury, Sonning Common, Wheatley and Witney. Holiday clubs 5 days a week 9am-4pm.
After school clubs (excluding Banbury). Youth clubs for 11-18 yr olds in Witney, Abingdon,
Eynsham and Banbury. Booking required. All sessions are fully staffed. Activities are fully
staffed and parents are not required to remain on site. Also, after school clubs. There is a
charge for activities, T: 01993 899980 / 07971 379566.
Lets Play Project
Activities based in Banbury area for 5-19 year olds and siblings from Oxfordshire
T: 01295 263694 W: www.letsplaybanbury.org
Parasol. Integrated Play & Leisure
Children aged 5-19yrs old who are Oxford city based. Recruit enablers to work with disabled
youngsters in play schemes. Youth Group and play groups. Saturdays – dance and singing
group. T: 01865 742816
Barnardos
Barnardo’s Community Short Breaks provide holiday play schemes for disabled children and
young people (5-18 years). They run during the school holiday based in Bicester, Banbury and
Wantage five days a week, five hours per day. T: 01869 252905 or
E: [email protected].
Yellow Submarine
Day trips in the Oxford and West Oxfordshire area for 11-18 year olds during school holidays
throughout the year. Contact them for more information. T:01865 236119
W: www.yellowsubmarine.org.uk E: [email protected]
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... Play and Leisure (continued)
The Music Club
held at Crowmarsh Village Hall, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh. OX10 8ED
Children aged 0–19 years, siblings & carers. Music workshops, fun days. First Monday in the
month (except bank holidays) and school holidays. T: 07768 298297 / 0118 9722322
E: [email protected] W: www.music4disabledchildren.org.uk
Camp Mohawk
Outward Bound Courses for 8-25 yr olds, Family Days. Camp Mohawk, Highfield Lane, Crazies
Hill, Wargrave, Berks, RG10 8PU. T: 0118 9404045 E: [email protected] W:
www.campmohawk.org.uk
Special Needs Tennis Shrivenham Tennis Club, SN6 8BL. Contact: Chris Hand:
T:07970 481 7075
Spectrum Girls - social group for girls with as/hfa
Covering the Home Counties area. Contact Lesley T: 0771 448 3485 or
E : [email protected]
OXSRAD Integrated Sports & Leisure Centre.
Offers sports, recreational and leisure activities accessible to all. Members entitled to use
facilities at a small cost per activity. Gym, sensory room, spa bath, pool table. archery,
trampolining (must book) and youth club
T: 01865 741 336 E: [email protected] W: www.oxsrad.org
A: Court Place Farm, Marsh Lane, Marston, Oxford OX3 0NQ
Woodcraft Folk Youth clubs for all young people.
4 groups (in Oxford) covering age range 4 – early twenties. Each group has adult leaders and
parents are encouraged to come along and help. NOT autism/special needs but very supportive
and nurturing.
Contact: Nick Thorn (volunteer) - 01865 863463.www.oxfordwoodies.org.uk
Listen
Inclusive Youth Group for 14-24 year olds. Contact Jason Kibble on
E::[email protected] T: 01993 899980 Mobile: 07971379566 Independent Living
Centre, Northfield Farm Lane, Madley Park, OX28 1UD
Buddies 2: Youth club
In Abingdon, for 11 – 18 yr olds with learning difficulties.
Contact: Kate 01235 521363
Community Play Project
Fairways Methodist Church, The Fairway Banbury, OX16 0R. T: 01295 275507
Play activities across Oxfordshire. – includes a Youth Group in Chinnor.
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... Play and Leisure (continued)
Autism-Friendly Cinema screenings
Dimensions offers Autism Friendly Film screenings in partnership with ODEON, Vue,
Showcase and Cineworld cinemas. Details are available at their website.
W: www.dimensions-uk.org/what-we-do/autism-care/autism-friendly-films/ where you can
join their mailing list for information and dates of screenings. The Regal Picturehouse,
Henley-on-Thames also has film screenings especially for people with autism and their
families. E: [email protected] T: 0871 704 2064
TRAX
Oxford based Youth Project– mainstream but support young people who are not in school, or
who are experiencing difficulties. Various courses throughout the school holidays and term
times. W: www.trax.org.uk
And something a little different for the whole family......
Charlotte's Tandems lend tandem bikes to (and only to) children and adults with disabilities
or special needs for free. Their borrowers are both. Tandems can be a fun and safe way to get
out and about as friends, a couple, family or group. They are available for hire for a couple of
months at a time. www.charlottestandems.co.uk
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Funding and Benefits
Family Fund – grants for low income families for things that make life easier and more
enjoyable for disabled children (18 & under) and their families, e.g. washing machines, driving
lessons, hospital visiting costs, computers & holidays. T: 0845 130 4542 or 01904 621115
E:[email protected] W: www.familyfund.org.uk
Childrens Variety Club – helps sick, disabled and disadvantaged children with individual
items that can change their lives. T: 020 7428 8100 E: [email protected] or see
W: www.varietyclub.org.uk
BDF Newlife, BDF Centre,Hemlock Business Park, Hemlock Way, Cannock, Staffs, WS11
7GF. Funding available, particularly for medical equipment T: 01543 468888 W:
www.bdfnewlife.co.uk
.
Helping Children locally Provides funds as long as one of your affected children is less
than 18 years of age. May include children affected by their own disability, the disability of their
parents, pressure upon income or any other cause. Examples: equipment that cannot be
readily accessed elsewhere, a respite break, educational facilities, therapeutic services, help
with transport needs.
W: www.helpingchildrenlocally.org T: 01604 648700.
Children Today Trust: grants for a range of equipment for children with disabilities that are
not funded through the NHS. Include wheelchairs, adapted bicycles, buggies and sensory
equipment.. Must be for specialised equipment for individual children.
T: 01244 335622 to discuss your application
The Caudwell Charity: grants to children, under the age of 18, who have a disability or
special needs. Specific items for children such as soft play equipment and sensory room
equipment.
W: www.caudwellcharity.com or E: [email protected] T: 0845 300 1348
The Frank Buttle Trust: grants to make a positive contribution to the lives of children and
young people when their safety, health or development is at risk. The grants provide necessities
such as clothes, beds, bedding, and essential household equipment. On occasion the Trust
funds short-term therapy costs. Also independent school fees.
W: www.buttletrust.org T: 0207 8287311
Social Security Benefits check – are you and your family claiming benefits available to
those on the autism spectrum? T: 01993 892 067. For help with completing benefit forms – see
Carers Centres above.
Cinema Exhibitors' Association Card entitles free cinema ticket for a person
accompanying a person who receives disability living allowance. The card is valid for 1 year with
a fee of £6 per card. Application forms are available from participating cinemas or
W: www.ceacard.co.uk T: 0845 123 1292
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... Funding and Benefits (continued)
Oxfordshire County Council Libraries
Children/adults with a learning difficulty can loan audio/visual items free of charge (up to 3 per
week). You need to visit the library and ask for your library ticket to be changed to a ‘special
needs/disabled ticket’.
Free Bus Pass for free travel within Oxfordshire and further afield – the pass-holder must be
in receipt of DLA or other benefit. For more information contact your District Council town hall
or website.
DLA
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children may help with the extra costs of looking after
an eligible child who:
is under 16
has difficulties walking, and or,
needs more looking after than a child of the same age
The DLA rate is between £21.55 and £138.05 a week (June 2014) and depends on the level of
help the child needs. The child may need an assessment to work out what help they need.
To request DLA forms please call T: 0845 712 3456, and for support to complete the application
please call FISOXON on 08452 262636
Inclusion support scheme
A scheme that aims to promote inclusion and remove the barriers to play, childcare and leisure
for disabled children and young people. It is available for children and young people under 19
years of age with impairments or emotional, behavioural or learning difficulties who would
otherwise be prevented from taking part.
W: http://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/inclusion-support-scheme
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Holiday and Respite Services
Crossroads
Aims to relieve the stress experienced by carers through the provision of respite care in the
home. T: 0845 450 0350, W: www.crossroads.org.uk
Kids out
Can provide respite care, days out, special holidays, grants and play equipment.
T: 01525 385 232, W: www.kidsout.org.uk
Break
Offers respite care and UK holidays for children and adults with challenging behaviour and/or
learning difficulties. T: 01263 822 161, E: [email protected]
Cerebra
For more information there is a brochure you can download.
T: 0800 328 1159 E: [email protected] .
W : http://www.cerebra.org.uk/English/gethelp/holidayhome/Pages/default.aspx
NAS
Provides lists of holiday destinations in the UK and overseas which have stated that their
facilities are appropriate for people with autism and related disorders.
W: www.autism.org.uk/holidayvenues
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Counsellors with experience or knowledge of Autism
Spectrum
Private Counsellors (fees are charged for sessions)
Angela Atack, MA Humanistic Person-Centred Psychotherapy, UKCP registered – can
see people in Chinnor, South Oxon, or Reading. T: 0792 181 6383
Laura Cope, BA; MBACP and UKRC registered – based in Henley. T: 01491 576114
or 07870 100 570 or E: [email protected]
Books and Resources
To loan:
OASIS has a library to loan books - See Parent Support Groups and Organisations section.
Cerebra has a popular postal lending library of books on topics relating to neurological
conditions, media (DVDs) and sensory equipment, such as bubble tubes, fibre optics and the
ever popular Sensory in a Suitcase, which contains a range of equipment to stimulate all the
senses. Please go to W: http://www.cerebra.org.uk/English/gethelp/library/Pages/default.aspx
for further information.
To buy:
See NAS W: www.autism.org.uk/about-autism/autism-library/books-and-dvds-for-purchase
or Jessica Kingsley Publishers W: www.jkp.com
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Useful websites
Oxfordshire Family Information Service Directory
For information on local services please go to the Family Information
Service Directory, managed by Oxfordshire County Council:
http://fisd.oxfordshire.gov.uk
For Families
www.nas.org.uk
Information about autism and Aspergers syndrome,
and A-Z information sheets
Directory of services across UK
www.autism.org.uk/directory
www.asdfriendly.org
www.asd-forum.org.uk/forum
www.aspergerfoundation.org.uk Asperger's Syndrome Foundation, a small Londonbased charity committed to promoting awareness
and understanding of Asperger syndrome, provides
information including service providers, seminars
and information sheets.
www.autismarts.com
www.lookingupautism.org
Autism News monthly international autism
newsletter, recent research findings, news and views
from the world of autism.
www.auties.org
www.wrongplanet.com
www.thegraycenter.org
Workshops and information on social stories
www.pecs-uk.com
Information about Picture Exchange Communication
System
www.parentsofdisabledchildren.co.uk
www.dotolearn.com
Free picture cards, examples of schedules and lots
more practical help
www.difflearn.com
On-line catalogue specializing in learning materials
and playthings for children with developmental
delays and challenges. Educational toys and
materials
Education
www.helpushelpthem
www.beatbullying.org
Beat Bullying is an award-winning charity that
campaigns against all kinds of bullying and supports
victims through programmes, mentoring and other
resources.
ww.autismeducationtrust.org.uk
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Computing:
www.autismandcomputing.org.uk
www.faaas.org
A site based in America for families (including the
partners) of adults with Asperger Syndrome
For children and young people
www.autismeducationtrust.org.uk An interactive site from the Autism Education
Trust full of videos, quizzes and information covering
all sorts of topics which young people on the
spectrum and their siblings might be anxious about
or interested in.
My Autism and Me, a Newsround special about children in the spectrum.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeGaffIJvHM
www.sibs.org.uk
Sibs is for brothers and sisters of disabled people.
An Arthur Episode – When Carl Met George. Episode when Carl makes friends with
George who has Aspergers Syndrome: www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsmjwHW40ps.
For individuals on the autism spectrum
www.autscape.org
www.chrismitchell.org.uk
www.danda.org.uk
www.healthtalkonline.org
Living with Autism - sections on autism sharing
other people's experiences by watching videos, or
reading interviews giving a range of perspectives on
being diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition.
Based on research led by the University of Oxford
For Partners of people on the autism spectrum
www.asperger-marriage.info
Chris and Gisela Slater-Walker
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... Useful websites (continued)
Research
www.autismspeaks.org.uk
Autistics - UK charity raising funds for medical
research that will improve diagnosis, advance new
treatments and discover the causes of autism.
www.autismresearchcentre.com
www.well.ox.ac.uk/monaco/autism/autism_links.shtml
This booklet has been produced by Autism Family Support –
a project of local charity Children in Touch.
Copies are available to download from our website
For enquiries please contact us on
T: 01844 338696, or E: [email protected]
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Fact File - Autism Family Support Oxfordshire

Transcription

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