WPCC Autism Information Pack by WPCC1

About the Wiltshire Autism Information Pack

This information pack has been developed by the Wiltshire Parent Carer Council (WPCC) to provide information with regards to services for Autistic children and young people, and their parent carers* living in Wiltshire. The services and support described in this pack are mainly Wiltshire based, but the WPCC has included some services that are close to Wiltshire borders.

The pack is a re-write of the WPCC’s earlier edition and has been expanded to include information and support with regards to eating disorders, LGBTQ+, safe relationships and mental health.

*The WPCC uses to term Parent Carer to include birth parents, foster parents, adoptive parents, special guardians and anyone over the age of 18 with parental responsibility.

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of going to press, groups and support services do change. If you have difficulty contacting any services, then do get in touch with the WPCC. Also, should you be aware of any services that have not been mentioned, please contact us so that we can update the pack.

Thank you

Tel: 01225 764 647

Email: reception@wiltspcc.co.uk

We acknowledge that every autistic person is different and may prefer a different way of describing themselves, for example, ‘person with autism’, ‘person on the autism spectrum’, ‘Autistic person’. Some might prefer to use the language that they were given at their diagnosis, including, ‘Asperger syndrome’. For further details on terminology, please see www.autismcentral.org.uk/guidance/how-we-talk-about-autism. The term, ‘autistic person’ has been used in this information pack.

Please note that not all website links are live, so some links will need to be manually typed into a search engine.

Contents Support for all ................................................... 10 Services for all .................................................. 28 0-5 Years........................................................... 55 6-11 Years......................................................... 72 12– 18 Years ..................................................... 93 18—25 Years ................................................... 136 Resources........................................................ 175 SEND Acronyms & Abbreviations..................... 209

What’s in the Wiltshire Autism Information Pack?

All sections have been colour coded to help you find what you’re looking for more easily.

Support and services which are relevant whatever the age of your child, can be found in the first 2 sections of the pack.

Support for all ages

Services for all ages

All the information within these sections relates specifically to services and support available to those living in Wiltshire.

Further support and services relevant to specific age ranges have been grouped together so that you can easily find information relevant to your current needs, like so:

0-5 years

6-11 years

12—18 years

18–25years Resources

All the information within age range sections relates specifically to services and support available to those living in Wiltshire.

The ‘resources’ section at the end of the pack offers information on accessing support, specialist education in Wiltshire, the Autism Act 2009, the Strategy for Adults with Autism, the Wiltshire Autism Partnership, Autism Alert Care, a list of professionals you may come in contact with (who they are and what they do), national websites, books and tools you may find helpful.

Wiltshire Parent Carer Council

The Autism Directory was first compiled in 2013 following a review of children and young people's services in Wiltshire with ASC. This review was undertaken by the WPCC, alongside Wiltshire Council and autism practitioners, and feedback from parent carers at WPCC events and from telephone calls into the WPCC offices.

Parent carers said they were often given a diagnosis for their child, a National Autistic Society leaflet and no further information with regard to where they could access help post diagnosis. Alongside this, parent carers needed support for their child/young person while they were waiting for a diagnosis as help was only available, at that time, to children/young people that had a diagnosis. So a group of parents within the WPCC got together and compiled a directory of services that were available both locally and nationally. This was available in both a paper and digital form, but due to funding, the decision has now been made to keep the directory in a digital format. Additionally, because both local and national services change so frequently and need updating regularly, a digital format is easier to do this.

This latest version of the WPCC Autism Information Pack is the result of two-years’ work. Our thanks go to a dedicated group of volunteers led by Andy Wrintmore and Sue Saunderson who pulled all the information together and Helen Bravery for turning the information into this latest iteration.

In addition and where appropriate, we have clearly signposted throughout the pack, links to relevant pages on the following websites:

Wiltshire Local Offer

The ‘Wiltshire Local Offer’ provides information and guidance on local services for all children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) aged 0 to 25.

One of the most significant features of this service is that young people with SEND can now be supported from birth to around the age of the 25 years or ‘stability’, i.e. the age when their path to adulthood is more established. This is intended to ease the transition from Children and Families Services, to those provided by Adult services.

In a person-centred way, young people can receive support with access to college, or other further education; support in the community and help into employment.

The Local Offer website outlines a range of services and support available and also offers ideas on ‘Pathways’ which those preparing for adulthood may be considering, for example Pathway to Employment, Pathway to Independent Living, Pathway to Community etc. These also provide links to other services you may find useful.

You can now receive regular updates on what’s happening in Wiltshire through the Wiltshire Council SEND Newsletter. To receive this you can apply on the local offer website: https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/6676/SEND-newsletter

The WPCC also produces weekly newsletters, full of information to support and inform parent carers with weekly topics covering: Information & Events, Have Your Say, Activities for Children & Young People, Breaking News. To receive your weekly WPCC newsletter, please register by visiting: www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk/en/Newsletters. Alternatively call the WPCC on 01225 764647.

National Autistic Society

This is the largest national support service for Autism in this country. Their website offers a wealth of information on all aspects of Autistic life from 0 99 years old.

This includes eating disorders, school avoidance, working, sex education/puberty and distressed behaviour. There are 5 specialist helplines that deals with education rights, school exclusions, inpatient mental health, transitions from schools and parent to parent emotional support. There is also an Autism directory and online community support groups covering everything from LGBTQ+ to Art and Crafts.

When becoming a member you receive quarterly “Spectrum” magazines full of information on all aspects of Autism along with what is happening in the charity, regular email updates, access to their Facebook group and an invitation to the AGM.

Website: www.autism.org.uk

Contact via online enquiry form for the specialist helplines or telephone:

Education rights: 0808 800 4102

Transition to further education: 0808 800 0027

Educational Tribunal: 0808 196 2010

School Exclusion: 0808 800 4002

Mental health inpatient service: www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/help -and-support/autism-inpatient-mental-health-service

NAS support groups for parent carers and autistic people:

South Wiltshire Branch

Meet on the first Monday of each month (except bank holidays) at The Community Space, Tesco, Southampton Road, Salisbury, SP1 2NY

Telephone:

07795 368113

Website: www.nasbranch.org.uk/southwiltshire

Email: southwiltshire.branch@nas.org.uk

North Wiltshire NAS

Where North Wiltshire Chippenham

What it does:

Web address:

Support group that meets monthly made up of mainly parent carers. We share events and links with regards to Autism and related conditions via a closed Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/groups/northwiltsnas

North Wiltshire Autism Information Facebook Page

What it does: A Facebook page providing information on local events for people with Autism.

Web address: www.facebook.com/wiltshireautisminformation

North

Where

Wiltshire

Autistica

Autistica is the UK’s leading autism research and campaigning charity. Their mission is to create breakthroughs that enable autistic people to live happier, healthier and longer lives. Their website has lots of information on “what is autism” as well as information and advice on related conditions such as anxiety, epilepsy, anorexia, depression and suicide. They have helped develop the Molehill Mountain app for anxiety.

Website address: www.autistica.org.uk

Ambitious about Autism

Where Nationwide

What it does:

Web address:

A national charity which stands with autistic children and young people, champions their rights and creates opportunities. Their website is full of information on education, employment, raising awareness, training and forums for both Autistic young people and parent carers.

www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk

Autism Central

This is a website developed by National Autistic Society, Ambitious about Autism, Autism Alliance, Autism Education Trust, Autistica, BILD (charity working to improve and champion the rights of people with Learning Disabilities), Contact, Great Minds Together and NNPCF (National Network of Parent Carer Forums) alongside the NHS. Information on each charity can be found on the website. It offers advice to parents, carers, personal assistants of autistic children through to adults on everything from physical / mental health and wellbeing, education, employment, signposting to services as well as providing learning material and training. It offers an online community where people can share experiences and support each other.

Website: www.autismcentral.org.uk

Support for All

Carer Support Wiltshire

Area covered

Wiltshire wide

What it does: Supports all unpaid carers from the age of 5 years and upwards. They help carers to access services, information, education, training, respite and breaks from their caring role. They ensure carers have a voice and they work with health / social care professionals and employers to raise carer awareness and develop best practice.

How to access: Self referral which can be done via the online referral link

Website: www.carersupportwiltshire.co.uk

Telephone: 0800 181 4118 for carers

01380 871690 for general enquiries

Email: admin@carersupportwiltshire.co.uk

Address: St Georges Road, Semington, nr Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 6JQ

all

Support for

Young Carers

How to access: This can be via a parent/carer, young person of a professional referral by calling the MASH Integrated front door phone number or via email.

For children and young people under 18 years old, the referral will be allocated to a practitioner, who will contact and arrange a visit. The practitioner will assess the family / young person to see if they are deemed a young carer and if so, will refer to Carer Support Wiltshire for support. Young carers 16+ years old will also have a transitions assessment and support directly from Carer Support Wiltshire.

Telephone: 0300 456 0108

Email: mash@wiltshire.gov.uk

all

Support for

Wiltshire Centre for Independent Living (Wilts CIL)

Support for all

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

A registered charity, Wiltshire Independent Living is an organisation managed by disabled people and is committed to supporting all disabled people to achieve choice, control and equal rights by campaigning for rights, advising, information, training, advocacy and per support.

You can contact them directly.

Website: www.wiltshirecil.org.uk

There is a Contact Us page for you to email them.

Telephone: 0300 1233 442

Address: Wilts CIL, 11 Couch Lane, Devizes, SN10 1EB

Emotionally Based School Avoidance

Area covered

Wiltshire wide

What it does: Provides information for parent carers and young people on what is EBSA and what things can be done to help the child / young person to access school. This includes Apps, charities and local provision.

How to access: PDF files can be accessed through the right choice website

Website: www.rightchoice.wiltshire.gov.uk

14 Support for all

Contact Listening Ear Services

Area covered Country wide

What it does: Offers 1:1 telephone appointments with a family support advisor for parent carers looking for a listening ear, reassurance and practical and emotional support. Appointments are 45 minutes long and can be booked online.

How to access: Self refer

Website:

www.contact.org.uk/help-for-families/listening-ear/

all

Support for

Scope About Disability—Navigate

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: Provides online emotional support for parents and carers of a disabled child who are finding out about their child’s additional needs. It is for parent carers who live in England, has responsibility for a child under 18 years old and the child is on a pathway to diagnosis or has received one in the last year. Navigate provides a programme of up to 6 sessions with a personal advisor, who will help you talk about your feelings and concerns.

How to access: You can apply online via the website or you can get a referral from the helpline.

Website: www.scope.org.uk/family-services/navigate

Telephone: 0808 801 0510

Opening hours Monday Friday, 9am 5pm

Email: helpline@scope.org.uk

Text phone: Dial 18011 then 0808 800 3333

16 Support

all

for

What it does:

IPSEA is an Independent provider of special educational advice. IPSEA offers free and independent legally based information, advice and support to help get the right education for children and young people with all kinds of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

On their very easy to navigate website they offer Free legal guides, resources and template letters, they also have a helpline of trained volunteer advisers, you will also find ’quick guides’ a reference tool that will provide you with simple definitions and descriptions of some of the key terms you may come across when navigating the SEND system.

How to access: Please visit their website where you will find more information and help they can offer you.

Website:

www.ipsea.org.uk

for all IPSEA

Support

Nationwide

Area covered

NSPCC - Online Safety and Wellbeing for Parent Carers of Children and Young People with SEND

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: Partnered with Ambitious about Autism they have provided information on how to keep children and young people with SEND safe and happy while using technology. They provide tips and worksheets on how to help with social pressures, cyberbullying, harmful content, being kind online and taking “time out”. Developed for parent carers.

How to access: Via website

Website: www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/ online-safety-families-children-with-send/

18 Support for all

Online Safety

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: UK Safer Internet Centre, for ages 3—19 years old and parent carers.

Covers online bullying, coerced online sexual abuse, cyber flashing and age appropriate resources to help children and young people to use the internet safely.

Website:

www.saferinternet.org.uk

all

Support for

The Challenging Behaviour Foundation

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: Provides support and advice to families / carers of children / young people who have a severe learning disability and display challenging behaviours. Often individuals may be diagnosed with Autism as well. They offer peer support, workshops, family carers’ email networks and support services. Also useful information even if your child doesn’t have learning disabilities.

Website: www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk

Email: support@thecbf.org.uk

Telephone: 0300 666 0126

Postal Address: The Challenging Behaviour Foundation

c/o The Old Courthouse

New Road Avenue

Chatham Kent ME4 6BE

for all

Support

Crisis Support—Mental Health

Childline: For children and young people up to the age of 19 years old. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week a child, young person can get through to a counsellor. Free Service.

Telephone: 0800 1111

Samaritans: For anyone in crisis. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Free service.

Telephone: 116 123

Shout: This is a 24/7 service, free on all major mobile networks for anyone in crisis. It’s a text service. Just text SHOUT to 85258, If you’re under 19 text YM to 85258

Urgent Help: For urgent help dial 999 for the Police and/or ambulance for urgent medical assistance.

Post 18: Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Services crisis line, for people known to them, which open 24/7.

Telephone 0800 953 1919

21 Support for all

SHOUT—Mental Health Support

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: Wiltshire residents can text WILTS to 85258 to access free, confidential mental health support from a trained volunteer who will aim to get that person to a safe and calm place. This will include coming up with a plan around how the person is going to support themselves moving forward and signposting to local support agencies where appropriate.

How to access:

This is open to Wiltshire residents of all ages and is available 24/7

all

Support for

BEAT—Eating Disorders

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: This is a national charity that provides help and support for people with any eating disorder including PICA. This can be through information on eating disorders, parent carer support and courses, helplines and services that provide weekly support for people on waiting lists for NHS treatment called Motivate.

Website:

Helpline:

Webchat:

Email:

Carer Support

Webpage:

www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

Open all year round from 9am midnight in the week and 4pm midnight at the weekend and bank holidays.

Telephone: 0808 801 0677

Available Monday Friday 09:00 23:45

Saturday Sunday 16:00 23:45.

Can be accessed on the information and support page.

help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk

www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-andsupport/services/carers

all

Support for

MindED for Families

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

Developed by NHS this is an online information service for families dealing with mental health challenges. There is a section for parent / carers covering school refusal, eating disorders, young people and criminal justice, risk behaviour and bullying to name a few. It provides information on the concern, how you can help as a parent and signposting to other websites.

How to access: Self referral

Website:

www.mindedforfamilies.org.uk

all

Support for

Not Fine in School

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

Website:

Public Facebook:

Closed Support Group for families:

Has lots of information for both parent / carers and the young person who is struggling with Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). They provide peer support for family members alongside advice for young people and professionals. They also take part in academic studies / research that helps raise awareness of EBSA.

www.notfineinschool.co.uk

www.facebook.com/notfineinschoolpublicpage/

www.facebook.com/groups/nfisfamilysupport

Support for all

Young Minds Parent Helpline

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: Has a helpline, email and webchat service with trained volunteers who can discuss your concerns about your child’s mental health difficulties. It also has a parents website with information on mental health conditions, how to help as a parent and where to find help for your child. There is a section on Autism and Mental Health.

How to access: Through their website: www.youngminds.org.uk and follow the links.

Phone: 0808 8025 544 Monday Friday, 09:30 16:00. If English isn’t your first language, they can arrange an interpreter. Also, if you are hard of hearing or speech impaired then you can use type talk or text direct to contact.

Webchat: Webchat service is open 09:30—16:00, Monday to Friday. It is accessed through the website.

Email: Can be accessed through the website using the webchat icon on the parents page.

26 Support for all

What it does:

Website:

Email:

The UK’s largest LGBTQ+ information, support and campaigning charity. It’s website offers information on inclusive schools and workplaces and even has a hub for young people. There is advice and support for disabled and neurodivergent young people as well. Young people can sign up online for a regular newsletter.

www.stonewall.org.uk.

info@stonewall.org.uk

Support for all Stonewall Area covered Nationwide

EC1U 4JY

Address: Stonewall 192

John Street London

Services for All

Wiltshire Digital Drive

Area covered

Wiltshire

What it does: Loans out laptops to support remote education and / or access to the internet for social inclusion. This can be long term and is for families who would struggle financially in buying their own. They also sell refurbished at a discounted rate. This is a not for profit organisation.

How to access:

Website:

Telephone:

Email:

Visit Us:

Services for all

Unfortunately you can’t apply as an individual, but can get one of the following organisations to make an application on your behalf:

• School, preschool / nursery, college

• Local town / parish council

• Charity

• Voluntary organisation

www.wiltshiredigitaldrive.org

Wiltshire Digital Drive 01225 636 005

info@wiltshiredigitaldrive.org

If you’re looking to collect a device after being successful in your application, or if you live locally and have any questions, you can visit us at:

Wiltshire Digital Drive

Office 13

Hampton Park West

Melksham

SN12 6LH

What it does: The Local Offer provides information on the services available for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and / or Disabilities (SEND) aged between 0 25 years old, and how to access them.

The Local Authority is responsible for publishing a Local Offer and making sure it’s clear, comprehensive and available for everyone to see. It includes information on Education, Other or Alternative Educational Provision, Preparing for adulthood and independent living, health provision, social care provision, SEND service, leisure, travel, support and guidance on things such as the EHC plan process.

How to access:

Website:

Initial contact is through single point of access

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/

Telephone: Single point of access 0300 247 0090 09:00 16:00

for all Local Offer

Services

Special Education Needs and Disabilities Service (SEND)

Area Covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: The SEND service provides information, assessment and support for children and young people from 0 25 years who have special educational needs and / or disabilities.

SEN and sensory advisory teachers and educational psychologist (inclusion support staff) offer advice to schools and settings for children and young people who are not making progress towards outcomes, or who require ongoing support because of their physical, visual or hearing impairment. In this case most children and young people will have a “My Support Plan” which explores barriers to progress in a holistic way closely involving families, setting staff and other professional. Children and young people who meet the criteria for further or more complex assessment of their education, health and care needs will be assigned a SEND lead worker who will co-ordinate the assessment process, working with schools and settings for children and young people which may lead to an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), known as a My Plan in Wiltshire. The SEND team has now been divided into teams of 4, focusing on different regions of Wiltshire, alongside a preparing for adulthood and post 16 team.

Further information on “My Support Plan”, “My Plans”, the post 16 process and annual reviews can be found on the Wiltshire Local Offer website.

How to access:

This can be done via phone or email.

Telephone: 01225 712 620 Lines are open Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4:30pm, Friday 9am to 4pm

Email: For schools/settings and those educated other than in school use the appropriate area contact email: North Wiltshire contact:EHCPNorthteam@wiltshire.gov.uk

SouthWiltshire contact: EHCPSouthteam@wiltshire.gov.uk

East Wiltshire contact: EHCPEastteam@wiltshire.gov.uk

West Wiltshire contact: EHCPWestteam@wiltshire.gov.uk

Services for all

Special Education Needs and Disabilities

Service (SEND) continued

Website

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/send-team.

This site will talk about the EHCP process, provide lead practitioners contact details and how to access the post 16/preparation for adulthood team.

Address: Wiltshire Council, By the Sea Road, Trowbridge, Wilts, BA14 8JN

Services for all

There are regular updates on the SEND service provided by regular newsletter which can be accessed through: www.localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/6676/sendnewsletter

Alternative Provision

Area Covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: Alternative Provision (AP) is education provision which a pupil participates in as part of their regular timetable, away from the site of the school and not led by school staff or parents. In Wiltshire this is provided by privately run providers who meet the quality –assured standards set by the council for safe guarding, health and safety and their teaching and learning arrangement. All information is held in a directory that schools can access to select the provision which is best for the child / young person.

How to access: This will be done via your child / young person’s SENCO

Website:

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/7469/Guide-toAlternative-Provision

Services for all

Behaviour Support Service

Area Covered

Wiltshire wide

What it does: It compromises a team of specialist teachers and trained support assistants who work in Wiltshire maintained school, academies and independent schools. They can help by providing training to staff on topics related to social / emotional needs of pupils, provide plans to support individual pupils needs and review these and provide advice and support for school leaders to create environments where school exclusions are not necessary because pupil behaviour does not warrant it.

How to access: Every Wiltshire maintained primary school and academy has a named behaviour support teacher who can be contacted. Or speak to the SENCO General enquiries

email: pupilbehaviour@wiltshire.gov.uk

Services for all

Specialist Special Educational Needs Service (SSENS)

Area Covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: This is a team of Specialist Advisory Teachers supporting children and young people that specialise in practical and realistic teaching and learning strategies. They support children and young people with literacy, numeracy and learning difficulties, as well as those with identified specific learning difficulties such as Dyslexia. As well as children with language and / or social communication needs such as Autism. They also support parent / carers through practical strategies, sign posting and transition support.

How to access: Referral is made through the child / young person school SENCO.

Website: https://rightchoice.wiltshire.gov.uk/services/4107

Address: Specialist SEN Service, County Hall, Trowbridge, BA14 8JN

Services for all

Integrated Therapies

(covers Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapists and Therapy Assistants)

Area Covered Wiltshire, excluding Swindon

What it does: We provide treatment in clinics and schools throughout Wiltshire and where appropriate can offer home assessments. The role of the service is to focus on helping children and young people with physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities or impairments to be as independent as possible in all areas of their lives. They work closely with other professionals such as paediatricians, health visitors, learning disability nurses and speech and language.

How to access: For those aged 0 18 years. Referrals can be made from parent / carers and health and education professionals via SPA.

Website:

www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/ integrated-therapies/

Telephone: SPA Telephone: 0300 247 0090 Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00

Email:

vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

Services for all

Learning Disability Health Services

Area Covered Wiltshire

What it does: Works to improve outcomes for children and young people in Wiltshire with learning disabilities, enabling them to reach their full potential. They work in partnership with parents, carers, carer’s families and other professionals and can help with eating and nutrition, sleeping, toileting and continence, personal hygiene, sexual health and behaviour. The young person will be allocated a named Learning Disability Nurse who will work alongside other professionals such as paediatrician, GP’s, Social Workers, OT’s, Physios and school staff.

How to access: The young person must have a diagnosis of a learning disability or a working diagnosis of a learning disability and a referral can be made through the SPA for hcrg group

Telephone: 0300 247 0090

Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00. It is encouraged that parent / carers contact a professional, such as Health Visitor, school or GP, involved in their child’s care in the first instance to support with making a referral. Professionals can download a referral form from the website to send in.

Website: www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/ learning-disability-health-service/

Email: vcl.wiltshirespa.nhs.net

Address: Wiltshire Single Point of Access

HCRG Care Group Services Ltd

1st Floor, Technology House

Unit 10, High Post Business Park Salisbury SP4 6AT

Services for all

Social Care

Area Covered All of Wiltshire

What it does: Where a young person and the family meet the eligibility criteria, a Social Worker will carry out an assessment of needs. There are many different kinds of support which could then be offered to meet identified needs, including the use of direct payments, day care or overnight respite, packages of home support, personal care support.

How to access:

Website:

Families can self-refer or be referred by a professional eg GP via the Integrated Children’s Services, which includes all referrals for SEND.

Families are eligible for support if the main need of the young person and their family arises out of the young person’s disability or intrinsic condition and this condition is having a substantial or critical impact on the quality of the young person’s and their family’s lives and also if their needs cannot be met by universal or targeted services.

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk

Click on the age group required and social care will be displayed.

Email: mash@wiltshire.gov.uk

Telephone: Integrated Children’s Services telephone, which includes MASH: 0300 456 0108. Monday Thursday 08:45 17:00. Friday 08:45 16:00

If you think a child or young person is a risk of significant harm or is injured out of hours, phone number is 0300 456 0100.

If there is immediate danger, phone the police or emergency services on 999

Services for all

Speech and Language Therapy

(often abbreviated to ‘SLT or SALT’)

Area Covered

What it does:

How to access:

All of Wiltshire

A team of speech and language therapist and support workers, who have a range of skills and experiences, provide assessment and support for children and young people with speech and language impairments or feeding difficulties.

They work with a wide range of children who have many different needs including those who have ASC.

Parents can self refer their children by calling the single point of contact advice line number below, or children maybe referred by their GP, health visitor, early years inclusion officer or educational setting. Parents are asked to try the activities and toolkits on the website with their child and record the results before referring on.

Telephone: 0300 247 0090 Monday Friday 09:00 17:00

Parent carers are advised to contact child’s school or preschool or health visitor in the first instance to support referral.

Website: www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/speech -language-therapy/

Services for all

Special Care Dental Service

Area Covered Chippenham and Swindon

What it does:

How to access:

The Special Care Dental Service provides a service for people with complex needs who are unable to access care at high street dentists. This is a referral-only service and is staffed by a dedicated team of Dentist and Dental Care Professionals (DCPs) who have a special interest in treating patients with additional needs.

Access to this service is by referral to a single point of access to ensure that an equitable, accessible service is provided throughout Wiltshire and Swindon.

Patients who attend the Special Care Dental Service can expect to be treated in a clinic that has been adapted to suit their particular needs for example specially adapted dental chairs and hoists to aid with transfer from wheelchair to dental chair. Domiciliary care can be provided for patients who are housebound which prevents them from attending the clinic.

The Special Care Dental Service provides comprehensive treatment for children and adults with disabilities who need special care.

Referrals are accepted from:

• General Dental Practitioners

• General Medical Practitioners

Telephone: 01672 517 419

Email: gwh.dentaladmin.teamoffice.nhs.net

Services for all

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

The Continence Service also works / liaises with SEND schools countywide.

The service initially works with school nurses or health visitors. It works with children and young people aged 4 18 and their families, where there are continence problems. The aim is to promote continence and manage incontinence, supporting young people to gain as much independence as possible.

A Continence Nurse manages the assessment for, and supply of, incontinence products where there is an assessed need. The Continence Nurse will explain what is involved if this is appropriate for your child.

Children and young people can be referred to the service by any health professional (eg a Wiltshire GP, Health Visitor or School or LD Nurse) and they can be seen for assessment in a clinic. Self referrals are also accepted through the single point of access page.

Appointments can be offered in the child / young persons home where medical need requires it.

www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/bladder -and-bowel/

Monday Friday, 08:00 16:00pm

Services for all Continence Service Area Covered Wiltshire wide,

What it does:

This is a free, all age, service that helps people to speak up, making sure that their views and opinions are heard and understood and obtaining their rights. This can be someone supporting you to speak up, or if unable to speak for yourself, then the advocate can speak on your behalf. Advocates are neutral and independent and what is said is confidential.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.theadvocacypeople.org.uk

Telephone: 0330 440 900

Text: 80800 starting message with PEOPLE

Email: info@theadvocacypeople.org.uk

Address: PO Box 375 Hastings East Sussex TN34 9HU

Services for all

Wiltshire

Advocacy People Area covered

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does: Mediation aims to help resolve disagreements for children or young people who are being assessed for or who have a My Plan (EHC Plan). Disagreement resolution arrangements are available for all parent / carers of all children and young people with SEN, where it has not been possible to resolve issues through normal routes such as school or college complaints process. Mediation and disagreement resolution meetings aim to resolve any disagreements in a quick, informal way using a third party mediator to help reach a satisfactory resolution. This mediator is from the Global Mediation Service. The service is free and confidential. A guide to mediation can be found on their website.

How to access: Self referral via ringing the services SEN Case Manager

Website: www.globalmediation.co.uk

Telephone: 0800 064 4488

Services for all Global Mediation Service

Wiltshire SENDIASS

(Special Education Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Services)

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Wiltshire SENDIASS is run by Family Action charity. It is a free, confidential and impartial support service to children and young people up to the age of 25 years with SEND and their parents and carers. They offer information, guidance, support and signposting either by phone, Team calls on an individual or targeted basis where needed, or through events and workshops.

They offer information and guidance about

• Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) including annual reviews, information and formal mediation and tribunals

• The law on SEND

• Personalisation and personal budgets

• The Local Offer sharing information about the services, activities and support available in the local Wiltshire area.

• Managing mediation, tribunals, appeals, exclusions and complaints.

• SEND support in early years provision, mainstream schools and post 16 institutions

• Local provision in mainstream, resourced mainstream and special schools.

How to access: Self referral via website contact form, telephone or email.

Website: www.family-action.org.uk/what-we-do/children-families/ wiltshire-sendiass/

Telephone: 01225 255 266. Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00

Email: wiltshire.sendiass@family-action.org.uk

Services for all

What it does: The WPCC also provides the Special Educational Needs and / or Disabilities Information Service or ‘SENDIS’.

Parents and carers can get advice and information about agencies and services that provide support in Wiltshire. When you first call you will talk to our triage service staff who can either provide information there and then or pass your information onto a SENDIS officer who will call you back to discuss what support is available for your child / young person.

How to access: Telephone

Website: www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 764 647

Email: reception@wiltspcc.co.uk

Area

Wiltshire

Services for all WPCC—SENDIS

covered

(Previously known as Splitz)

Area covered

What it does:

How to access:

FearFree is a charity working to break the cycle of domestic abuse, sexual violence and stalking. They support both adults and children to not only keep them safe but helps them to rebuild their lives free from fear and abuse. They help from crisis intervention, through to 1:1 or group work recovery sessions and education programmes. Services are free of charge and open to anyone. They even run awareness events in school and colleges to help pupils notice signs of abuse in their relationships. They will work with children and young people, who have been victims of any sort of sexual abuse, including online abuse.

You can self refer either by phone or online. Or a professional can refer you.

Website: www.fearfree.org.uk

Telephone: 01225 775 276 09:00 17:00

Email: spa@fearfree.org.uk

Address: Oak House, Epsom Square White Horse Business Park

Trowbridge BA14 0XG

Services for all FearFree

Wiltshire

Services for all Hope for the Community

Area covered South West

What it does:

A social enterprise that provides a range of digital courses which empower people to manage their health and wellbeing. They are based on positive psychology, mindfulness and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and are rooted in research evidence. They provide a 6 week free course for parents of Autistic children, which takes 2 hours per session to complete but can be done at anytime that is convenient to that person.

How to access: Book a place online

Website: www.h4c.org.uk

Relate

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: Provides relationship, family and children and young people counselling. Also provides friendly and informal workshops. This can be face to face or via the phone, email and live chat. Their website also provides help pages and blogs offering tips and guidance on subject matters such as parenting, separation, divorce and sex.

How to access: Self referral via forms on website

Website:

Telephone

Email:

Services for all

Dorset and South Wiltshire

www.relate.org.uk/centre/dorset-and-south-wiltshire

Mid Wiltshire

www.relate.org.uk/find-your-centre?id=973

Dorset and South Wiltshire

01302 380 900

Mid Wiltshire

0300 003 1781

Dorset and South Wiltshire

enquiries@relatedorset.org.uk

Mid Wiltshire

appointments.midwilts@relate.org.uk

Ability Sports Programme

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: The Ability Sports programme provides opportunities for young people and adults with special educational needs and / or disabilities to access sports.

How to access: Self referral

Website:

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/7328/AbilitySports

This website has details of sports that are available and how to access them.

Services for all

Charlotte Springall Equestrian

Area covered Salisbury

What it does: Offers riding lessons to autistic children and young people recognising the benefits to their motor, emotional and sensory sensation that come with riding a horse. All the ponies and staff are trained to work with the needs of autistic children and young people. There is a cost involved.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.charlottespringall.co.uk

Telephone: 07900 836 695

Email: charlotte@charlottespringall.co.uk

Address: Dear Lea Stables

Home Farm

Giles Lane

Landford

Salisbury SP5 2BG

Services for all

Wiltshire Equine Assisted Learning

What it does:

Offers one to one social, emotional and mental health support, creates positive opportunities for young people to thrive outdoors in a safe and supportive space. It allows young people to develop their empathy and find a sense of calm. Can help with preparation for adulthood by providing the young person with employment skills, engagement with the community, independent living skills and healthy living support. All work is “ground” based so does not including riding.

How to access: Can be self referred and funded or can be referred via school or health and social care professionals. Please contact Hannah on the number below:

Website: www.wiltshireequineassistedlearning.co.uk

Telephone: 07368 155 557

Email: hannah@wiltshireequineassistedlearning.co.uk

Address: WEAL

Wick Yard Bath Road

Farleigh Wick

Bradford on Avon BA15 2PU

Services for all

West

Area covered

Wiltshire

Riding for the Disabled

Area covered Nationwide

What it does: A charity that provides fun activities through horse riding and carriage driving. This provides therapy, fitness and skills development to children , young people and adults with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and autism.

How to access: Self referral. Go to their website to find your nearest RDA centre or telephone.

Website: www.rda.org.uk

Telephone: 01926 492 915

Email: info@rda.org.uk

Services for all

Dressability

What it does: This is a charity which supports the clothing needs of individuals with disabilities and those with limited dexterity. They adapt people’s clothing to enable people to maintain their independence and have help with school uniforms to formal wear. They’ve supported everyone from Autistic young people to wheelchair using adults.

How to access: They can contacted by phone. Opening hours, Monday Friday 09:00 3pm

Website: www.dressability.org.uk

Telephone: 01793 572 878

Email: mail@dressability.org.uk

Address: Unit 2 Bradbury House Westmead Drive Swindon SN5 7ER

Services for all

Area covered Country wide but based in Swindon

Helpful Hounds Assistance Dogs

Area covered Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey

What it does:

A charity that helps to train dogs to provide assistance for Autistic young people aged 5 25 years and other conditions. This includes providing deep pressure, interruption of self harming behaviours, creating a safe space around the young person and fetching medication. Dogs can be trained either by the owner or the charity with lots of support and help along the way. The training is adapted to suit the young persons needs.

How to access: Self referral via the website if the following criteria is met:

• Living in the catchment area

• Having a medical diagnosis of the disability or be in the process of

• Be between ages of 5 25 years

• Have a secure back garden

• Be able to exercise the dog regularly

• Allow the dog to have a minimum of 2 hours of downtime where the dog is not working

Website:

Telephone:

Email:

Address:

www.helpfulhounds.org.uk

01202 591 602

enquiries@helpfulhounds.org.uk

Services for all

13 New Road Bournemouth BH10 7DN

0– 5 years

Wiltshire Autism Assessment Service (WAAS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide except Swindon

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

WASS provides a diagnostic assessment only service for children and young people up to 18 years who are showing possible signs of Autism. The process is found in detail on the hcrg care group website. It goes into detail about what is Autism, how your child / young person is diagnosed, waiting times and what happens following diagnosis. There is also a monthly newsletter offering advice, signposting and service updates.

It is advisable to discuss this with the school, who can refer through the Single Point of Access on the HCRG website, especially as the diagnosis process will include gathering information from others that know your child well. If your child is not attending school, then a Health Visitor, School Nurse or GP can also refer.

www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/waas/

Telephone: Single Point of Access (SPA)

Tel: 0300 247 0090. Monday Friday 09:00 17:00

Email:

vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

You can sign up for the newsletter on this email, by providing your details and preferred email address.

Copies of previous monthly newsletters can be found at:

https://wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/ waas/waas-newsletter/

Please be aware that there are long waiting lists for this service. At present the WPCC recommend the NHS diagnosis, as some Local Authorities do not recognise private assessments, especially if the practitioner hasn’t used robust NICE guidelines during the assessment. Also be aware that Wiltshire has a needs based approach, rather than a diagnosis based approach to providing support to children / young people. For post 18 years to get support, such as disabled student allowance, a diagnosis letter is required.

0 — 5 years 56

Support in Wiltshire: Autism Parent Programme 1 or ‘SWAPP 1’

Area covered Wiltshire wide online course via Microsoft Teams. Participants must be Wiltshire residents.

What it does:

It is a partnership programme between parents of autistic children in early years settings and reception classes and their child’s setting or school. It aims to build understanding of autism and related issues including communication, sensory issues and behaviour. Sessions are conducted by two professionals who have training and experience in supporting children and Autistic young people. A member of staff from the child's school is encouraged to attend if possible to ensure a consistent approach around the child. The course runs for 6 weeks one session per week for approximately 2 hours, except for school holidays. The sessions are normally held in the morning, 9:30 11:30am and participants are expected to attend all sessions.

years

How to access:

The child must have a formal written diagnosis of autism. A parent can request an application form by telephone or email. Each family will be offered two places for family members and a third place for the child’s school or setting. There are usually 8 10 families on each course.

Website: See https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/4264/ Autism-Parent-Programme-SWAPP for an application form.

Telephone: 01225 718095 or 01225 718 225

Email: tsls.operationaloffice@wiltshire.gov.uk

0 — 5

Family Hubs

What it does: The family hubs offer a range of parenting support groups and parenting classes in Wiltshire. This includes family support services to help you with all aspects of parenting as well as support and advice for young people both face to face and online.

The Family Hub service offers parents and carers:

• Parenting advice

• Family relationship advice

• Information on healthy lifestyles

• Child attachment and trauma informed support

• Early learning and communication support

• Signposting for families to access a full range of services in their area

• Advice on how to access childcare provided by nurseries and childminders

• Family support services in Wiltshire

• Parenting courses and parent support groups in Wiltshire

• Support for children with specialist needs

• Help with volunteering and returning to work

How to access: Parents are welcome to contact directly.

Website:

To find more information about family hubs, please go to:

https://spurgeons.org/how-we-help/family-life/earlyyears-and-family-support/family-hub-wiltshire-council/

Or telephone: 0800 970 4669

Information is also available on the All Together website:

https://wiltshiretogether.org.uk/alltogether/family-hubs

0 — 5 years 58

Area covered Across Wiltshire

District Specialist Centres

Area covered Across Wiltshire

What it does:

Wiltshire has 4 District Specialist Centres:

• Springboard, Chippenham

• Opportunity Centre, Devizes

• Steppingstone, Trowbridge

• John McNeil, Salisbury

They provide setting based sessions for young people aged 0 5 years with special education needs and / or disability and support for parent carers.

Each service has specially trained staff and equipment to ensure they can meet the needs of all children including those with the most profound and complex needs including complex health needs.

They are also a local hub for specialist services for young disabled children so families can access health professionals such as speech and language (these services can also be accessed through professional referral). They take a team around the child approach, so work closely with other services including the SEND service to ensure the holistic needs of the child and their family are met.

How to access:

Website:

Parents are welcome to contact directly, but most children need to be referred by a Paediatrician, Health Visitor or other professional.

To find the nearest District Specialist Centre please go to https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk.

Click on early years (0-5), then education, followed by “District Specialist Centres”.

0 — 5 years 59

Home Start

What it does: Promotes the welfare of families who have at least one child under the age of five. They provide baby and toddler friendship groups and one to one support from fully trained volunteers. They visit weekly and can help with anything from helping families get out to the park, cope with the arrival of twins and attend meetings to support you. They provide both practical and emotional support, thus reducing isolation, and offer advice on money, mental health and disabilities.

How to access: Self referral or through referrals from Health Visitor, Children Centres and other professionals from the early years sector. Referral forms on their website,

Website: North Wiltshire, now including Melksham: www.homestartnorthwiltshire.org.uk

South Wiltshire: www.homestartsouthwilts.org.uk

Telephone: North Wiltshire: 01672 569 457 or 07864 652349

South Wiltshire: 07562 633869

Email: North Wiltshire: hello@homestartnorthwiltshire.org.uk

South Wiltshire: info@homestartsouthwilts.org.uk

Address: North Wiltshire: Unit 1, Fordbrook Business Centre, Pewsey, Wiltshire, SN9 5NU

South Wiltshire: Suite 204, Warner House, 123 Castle Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP1 3TB

0 — 5 years 60

Area covered North and South Wiltshire

Time Out for Parents—Children with Special Needs age 3—11

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: For parent /carers of children with additional or special needs aged 3 11 years. It is a parenting program over 7 sessions that’ll help increase your skills and confidence as a parent and discover practical tools to make your relationship with your child even better.

Sessions:

 Parenting children with special needs

 Self Esteem

 Coping with your feelings

 Understanding behaviour

 Managing behaviour

 Home and School issues

 The wider family

How to access: Can be a self referral, no medial or formal diagnosis is needed for parents and carers to attend. An online referral can be completed at: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/3890/parenting-courses

0 — 5 years

Wiltshire Portage Service

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

Portage is a home visiting, home education service that works with young disabled children (aged 0 5) and their families.

Portage Home Visitors are specially trained and follow a programme specifically designed for the child, who will learn early developmental skills. Goals are identified by the parent and Home Visitor and are broken down into small achievable steps. Parents work on these goals each day, ensuring that the child is able to experience realistic success each week. Supported by the Home Visitors, parents are empowered to help their child to learn. Home Visitors also work alongside with a range of other professionals and agencies. Care portage provided to children from birth to a year before they start school. Portage School Readiness a 10 week program provided to children referred during the year before they start school.

How to access: For updates and eligibility, visit www.wiltshireportage.org.uk/eligibility.

Website: www.wiltshireportage.org.uk

Telephone: 07780 653 888 (Monday Friday, 9am 4pm)

Email: managerwiltshireportage@gmail.com

0 — 5 years 62

Wiltshire Short Breaks Scheme

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

One of the ways that Wiltshire Council provides short breaks to children and young people who have SEND is through the Short Breaks Scheme (SBS).

The SBS was designed to meet the individual needs and interests of children and young people who require additional support to access or engage in leisure activities and offers families choice through a menu of options. This means that children and young people together with their parents or carers, can think about how they prefer to spend their leisure time and choose what works best for them.

The SBS is open to all eligible children and young people aged 5 18 years, who are resident in Wiltshire (this excludes Swindon). Please Note: children must turn 6 before the end of August to be eligible. Parents and carers can complete a simple online application at the beginning of each year and during a given timeframe.

www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk

For further information about the SBS, including eligibility, options available and how and when to apply.

The ‘What’s On’ page also has lots of information on other activities and clubs available in Wiltshire.

Telephone: 01225 764 647

Email: reception@wiltspcc.co.uk

0 — 5 years 63

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide, but not including Swindon.

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

Telephone:

Email:

Provides support to children and young people up to the age of 18, who are experiencing mental health difficulties. This includes a learning disability service and can include ASC assessments, with referrals being made internally. Their website offers information and advice on common mental health challenges for both your people and parent carers. As well as a Single Point of Access (SPA) information for parent carers to refer young people into the service.

Children and young people who met eligibility criteria can be referred by a professional who knows the child / young person or family, eg GP, teacher or SENCo. Or a parent / carer can access through the Single Point of Access (SPA) page on the CAMHS website for children under 16 years. For young people over 16, they can refer themselves through the SPA route.

Information on CAMHS and help / advice for many mental health conditions can be found at: www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/camhs

SPA: 01865 903 330

Crisis Line 24/7—0800 023 2133

wiltscamhsspainfo@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk

0 — 5

years

Family Counselling Trust

Area covered

What it does: Offers counselling to children and young people aged 4 to 18 in the form of art therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy or family therapy. They can help with mild depression, anxiety, challenging behaviour and difficulty regulating emotions, mild self harm and bullying to name a few.

How to access:

This is through a referral form from a GP, school, children centre or other charities. Or they can accept referrals from families, parents or young people.

Website: www.familycounsellingtrust.org

Telephone: 07375 535 407

Email: flo-Wiltshire@familycounsellingtrust.org

0 — 5 years 65

Wiltshire

“On Your Mind” Wellbeing Service

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does: Helps young people aged 5 18 years old registered with a Wiltshire GP, who are experiencing a range of early mental health difficulties. This will be through group work, community activities and counselling sessions for young people who need more intensive support. This is a year round service so the support doesn’t stop in the school holidays.

As this is an early help service, there is no crisis support. You will need to contact CAMHS on their mental health helpline 0800 023 2133. In an emergency dial 999

How to access: They take referrals from young people, parent / carers and professionals via the Single Point of Access (SPA) or online.

Website: www.onyourmind.org.uk

Telephone: SPA—0300 247 0090, option 4. Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00

Email:

vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

0 — 5

years

Jumpin Fun Inflatable Park

Area covered Salisbury

What it does: This is an indoor inflatable park in Salisbury. It holds SEN sessions once a month during term time where the number of participants are halved, the music is turned down and some of the bigger activities are closed off. A parent / carer also has free entry with every participant.

Address: Jumpin Fun, 1 Castlegate Business Park, Old Sarum, Salisbury, SP4 6 QX

Website: www.jumpinfun.co.uk

Telephone: 01722 445503

Email: Salisbury@jumpinfun.co.uk

0 — 5 years 67

0 — 5 years 68 Baloo Area covered Trowbridge What it does: Multi level indoor soft play area that has a sensory room. For ages 0 12 years old

Silver Street, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 8AE

753

Address: 17

Website: www.baloossoftplay.co.uk Telephone: 01225 764

Email: baloossoftplay@outlook.com

Larkhill Space Station

Area covered Larkhill, Salisbury

What it does:

A soft play area which has a sensory room that can be hired for an hour for up to 5 children. This is a separate cost to the play area. Sessions need to be pre-booked on their website or by phone.

Address: Larkhill Space Station, 406 The Packway, Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 8QA

Website: www.spacestationlarkhill.com

Telephone: 07831 203162

Email: emily.gillies01@gmail.com

0 — 5 years 69

Inclusive

What it does: Provides a dedicated play session for children with complex and / or additional needs. This is in a friendly environment where you can chat, play and have fun.

How to access: This is for children aged 4 12 years at Springfield campus, Corsham on the first and third Saturday of each month, 3 5pm. Book by telephone Telephone: 01249 468 460 Email: mickabrack@yahoo.com

0 — 5 years 70

Play Sessions Area covered Corsham and surrounding area

Wiltshire School of Gymnastics

Gymability

Area covered Melksham

What it does:

Telephone:

Email:

Address:

Offers a drop in gym sessions for a child with an physical, mental, emotional, social language and / or sensory challenges. For age range 3 12.

Children and their parents / carers can explore our gymnastics apparatus with our coaches in attendance. Spaces are strictly limited and must be booked in advanced.

Held on Tuesday, 12:30 1:30pm

There is a charge for these sessions.

01225 793 402

info@wiltshiregymnastics.co.uk

The Wiltshire School of Gymastics

Lysander Road

Bowerhill

Melksham

SN12 6SP

0 — 5

years

6– 11 years

The Family Hub service offers parents and carers:

• Parenting advice

• Family relationship advice

• Information on healthy lifestyles

• Child attachment and trauma informed support

• Early learning and communication support

• Signposting for families to access a full range of services in their area

• Advice on how to access childcare provided by nurseries and childminders

• Family support services in Wiltshire

• Parenting courses and parent support groups in Wiltshire

• Support for children with specialist needs

• Help with volunteering and returning to work

How to access: Parents are welcome to contact directly.

Website:

To find more information about family hubs, please go to:

https://spurgeons.org/how-we-help/family-life/earlyyears-and-family-support/family-hub-wiltshire-council/

Or telephone: 0800 970 4669

Information is also available on the All Together website:

https://wiltshiretogether.org.uk/alltogether/family-hubs

6 — 11 years 73

Family Hubs Area covered Across Wiltshire

Wiltshire Autism Assessment Service (WAAS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide except Swindon

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/waas/

Telephone: Single Point of Access (SPA)

Tel: 0300 247 0090. Monday Friday 09:00 17:00

Email:

Vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

You can sign up for the newsletter on this email, by providing your details and preferred email address. Copies of previous monthly newsletters can be found at: https://wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/ waas/waas-newsletter/

6 — 11 years 74

Support in Wiltshire: Autism Parent Programme 2/3 or ‘SWAPP 2/3’

Area covered Wiltshire wide online course via Microsoft Teams. Participants must be Wiltshire residents.

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

It is a partnership programme between parents of autistic children in school years 1 7 and their child’s setting or school, which aims to build an understanding of autism and the challenges and delights it can present.

The programme aims to empower families and staff who are closely involved in supporting a child or young person with autism.

Sessions cover all aspects of autism including communication, sensory issues and behaviour. Children and young people themselves do not attend sessions. SWAPP 2 involves 4 group sessions, usually one a week for 4 weeks.

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/4264/AutismParent-Programme-SWAPP for an application form.

Telephone: 01225 718225 or 01225 718 095

Email: tsls.operationaloffice@wiltshire.gov.uk

6 — 11

years

Time Out for Parents—Children with Special Needs age 3—11

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

For parent /carers of children with additional or special needs aged 3 11 years. It is a parenting program over 7 sessions that’ll help increase your skills and confidence as a parent and discover practical tools to make your relationship with your child even better.

Sessions:

 Parenting children with special needs

 Self Esteem

 Coping with your feelings

 Understanding behaviour

 Managing behaviour

 Home and School issues

 The wider family

Can be a self referral, no medial or formal diagnosis is needed for parents and carers to attend. An online referral can be completed at:

www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/3890/parenting-courses

6 — 11

years

Barnardo’s Kingfisher ASC Clubs

Area covered Devizes, Chippenham and Trowbridge

What it does:

How to access:

Runs fortnightly clubs for Autistic children and young people aged 8 18 years. These groups allow young people to socialize with their peers in a supportive environment. The groups offer core activities such as arts, crafts, music and cookery. Young people can attend independently or with a carer if they have high level support needs.

Self referral by booking in advance.

Telephone: 07590 624 260

Email info.wiltshireshortbreaks@barnardos.org.uk

6 — 11 years 77

Cygnets

Area covered Salisbury

What it does:

Youth club for Autistic young people aged 8 18 years living in and around Salisbury. Run by Elizabeth House and Barnardo’s they provide monthly groups in a safe environment offering arts, crafts, social skills and cookery. They can also help with sign posting. The groups are limited to 10 people.

How to access: Self referral but places have to be pre-booked.

Telephone: 01722 323 783

freda.elizabethhouse@gmail.com

6 — 11 years 78

Seeds for Success

Area covered

What it does:

A weekly youth club for young people with a special need or disability, are vulnerable and find socialising difficult, aged 11 18. Sessions are run at Mere youth club every Tuesday night, 6:30 9pm. Transport is provided from Tisbury and surrounding villages. There is also a member of staff available to come and meet the young person at home to discuss any specific needs and barriers to participation, or to be a familiar face for them when they start.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Ali. Also referral forms on website

Website: www.seeds4success.org.uk/bridging-project

Telephone: 07585 723 824

Address: The Recreation Ground

Queens Road

Mere BA12 6EP

6 — 11 years 79

South Wiltshire Mere Youth Centre

Splash—Community First

Area covered

What it does:

How to access:

Wiltshire and Swindon

Splash provides positive activities and youth worker support for young people who are facing challenges in their lives, providing fun opportunities where young people learn from each other, help and support one another and begin to see they are liked, accepted and valued individuals. Splash raises aspirations, increases confidence and self esteem and empowers young people to realise their own capabilities and potential. They also support young victims of crime under 18 years old to help them cope and recover from their experience.

Splash are unable to provide support for young people with high care needs as parent / carers are not allowed to attend sessions.

Splash is aged 9 - 16 years. Splash victims of crime, under 8 -18 years old. Parent / carers can self refer their child or a professional from school.

Website: www.splash-wiltshire.org.uk

Telephone: 01380 732 829

Address: info@splash-wiltshire.org.uk

6 — 11 years 80

Wiltshire Short Breaks Scheme

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

One of the ways that Wiltshire Council provides short breaks to children and young people who have SEND is through the Short Breaks Scheme (SBS).

The SBS is open to all eligible children and young people aged 5 18 years, who are resident in Wiltshire (this excludes Swindon). Parents and carers can complete a simple online application at the beginning of each year and during a given timeframe.

www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk

For further information about the SBS, including eligibility, options available and how and when to apply.

The ‘What’s On’ page also has lots of information on other activities and clubs available in Wiltshire.

Telephone: 01225 764 647

Email:

admin@wiltspcc.co.uk

6 — 11 years 81

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide, but not including Swindon.

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

Telephone:

Information on CAMHS and help / advice for many mental health conditions can be found at: www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/camhs

SPA: 01865 903 330

Crisis Line 24/7 0800 023 2133

Email: wiltscamhsspainfo@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk

6 — 11 years 82

Family Counselling Trust

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access:

Offers counselling to children and young people aged 4 0 18 in the form of art therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy or family therapy. They can help with mild depression, anxiety, challenging behaviour and difficulty regulating emotions, mild self harm and bullying to name a few.

This is through a referral form from a GP, school, children centre or other charities. Or they can accept referrals from families, parents or young people.

Website: www.familycounsellingtrust.org

Telephone: 07375 535 407

Email: flo-Wiltshire@familycounsellingtrust.org

6 — 11 years 83

On Your Mind” Wellbeing Service

Area covered Wiltshire

As this is an early help service, there is no crisis support. You will need to contact CAMHS on their mental health helpline 0800 023 2133. In an emergency dial 999

How to access: They take referrals from young people, parent / carers and professionals via the Single Point of Access (SPA) or online.

Website: www.onyourmind.org.uk

Telephone: SPA—0300 247 0090, option 4. Monday—Friday, 09:00—17:00

Email: vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

6 — 11 years 84

“

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Provides free counselling for children and young people which provides a safe space with highly specialist counsellors who use a range of creative therapeutic methods to help young people connect to and express their feelings. This helps young people develop coping strategies which allows them to thrive rather than just survive.

Sessions are currently offered both online via Zoom or in person at the Trowbridge office. The sessions take place once a week at the same time and continues for up to 24 weeks depending on the individuals need.

How to access: To find out more or to register email: counselling@wiltshiremind.co.uk

Website: www.wiltshiremind.co.uk/

Email: counselling @wiltshiremind.co.uk

6 — 11 years 85 MIND Wiltshire (11—18)

The Mix

What it does: This is a support service for young people. They help with challenges from mental health to money, homelessness, finding work, break ups and drugs. This can be accessed via their online community, social media, their free confidential helpline or the counselling service. There is information on Autism. This service is for young people under the age of 25.

Website: www.themix.org.uk

Helpline: 0808 808 4994 Monday—Saturday, 4pm—11pm. Free helpline with trained supporters that young people talk to about any issue

Email: Can be accessed through the “get support” page on the website at any time and a trained supporter will respond with 24 hours., Monday Saturday.

Crisis Messenger: This service is a 24 hour, 7 day a week service for anyone who feels they can’t cope or are worried about their feelings. You can text THE MIX to 85258 and a trained volunteer will respond in less than 5 minutes. It is a free and anonymous service.

Counselling Service: Provides short term help with mental health and emotional well being. Telephone counselling service is available to young people under the age of 25 years. The webchat service is available to 10 18 year olds. This is a self referral service via the form on the “Get Support” page. It can be used by children / young people waiting for NHS therapy.

6 — 11 years 86

Nationwide

Area covered

Inclusive

What it does: Provides a dedicated play session for children with complex and / or additional needs. This is in a friendly environment where you can chat, play and have fun.

How to access: This is for children aged 4 12 years at Springfield campus, Corsham on the first and third Saturday of each month, 3 5pm. Book by telephone

Telephone: 01249 468 460

Email: mickabrack@yahoo.com

6 — 11 years 87

Play Sessions Area covered Corsham and surrounding area

Jumpin Fun Inflatable Park

Area covered Salisbury

Address: Jumpin Fun, 1 Castlegate Business Park, Old Sarum, Salisbury, SP4 6 QX

Website: www.jumpinfun.co.uk

Telephone: 01722 445503

Email: Salisbury@jumpinfun.co.uk

6 — 11 years 88

Website: www.baloossoftplay.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 764 753

Email: baloossoftplay@outlook.com

6 — 11 years 89

Area covered Trowbridge

it does:

Baloo

What

Multi level indoor soft play area that has a sensory room. For ages 0 12 years old

Address: 17 Silver Street, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 8AE

Larkhill Space Station

Area covered Larkhill, Salisbury

What it does:

A soft play area which has a sensory room that can be hired for an hour for up to 5 children. This is a separate cost to the play area. Sessions need to be pre-booked on their website or by phone.

Address: Larkhill Space Station, 406 The Packway, Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 8QA

Website: www.spacestationlarkhill.com

Telephone: 07831 203162

Email: emily.gillies01@gmail.com

6 — 11 years 90

Wiltshire School of Gymnastics

Gymability

Area covered Melksham

What it does:

Telephone:

Email:

Address:

Offers a drop in gym sessions for a child with an physical, mental, emotional, social language and / or sensory challenges. For age range 3 12.

Children and their parents / carers can explore our gymnastics apparatus with our coaches in attendance. Spaces are strictly limited and must be booked in advanced.

Held on Tuesday, 12:30 1:30pm

There is a charge for these sessions.

01225 793 402

info@wiltshiregymnastics.co.uk

The Wiltshire School of Gymastics

Lysander Road

Bowerhill

Melksham

SN12 6SP

6 — 11 years 91

Area covered

What it does:

Information site for young people on everything from bullying, bereavement, self harm, LGBTQ+, Exams and advocacy. Be aware that this is not Wiltshire based, so services might not be available but will be helpful for young people who live in Wiltshire but go to school in BANES. For example the space LGBTQ+ youth groups are available to students who study in Bath, but live in Wiltshire.

Services not available for Wiltshire residents unless the young person attends a school / college in Bath.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.offtherecord-banes.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 312 482

6 — 11 years 92

Record

Off the

BANES Bath and North East Somerset

12—18 years

Family Hubs

The Family Hub service offers parents and carers:

• Parenting advice

• Family relationship advice

• Information on healthy lifestyles

• Child attachment and trauma informed support

• Early learning and communication support

• Signposting for families to access a full range of services in their area

• Advice on how to access childcare provided by nurseries and childminders

• Family support services in Wiltshire

• Parenting courses and parent support groups in Wiltshire

• Support for children with specialist needs

• Help with volunteering and returning to work

How to access: Parents are welcome to contact directly.

Website:

To find more information about family hubs, please go to:

https://spurgeons.org/how-we-help/family-life/earlyyears-and-family-support/family-hub-wiltshire-council/

Or telephone: 0800 970 4669

Information is also available on the All Together website:

https://wiltshiretogether.org.uk/alltogether/family-hubs

1218 years 94

Area covered Across Wiltshire

Wiltshire Autism Assessment Service (WAAS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide except Swindon

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

www.wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/waas/

Telephone: Single Point of Access (SPA)

Tel: 0300 247 0090. Monday Friday 09:00 17:00

Email:

vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

You can sign up for the newsletter on this email, by providing your details and preferred email address.

Copies of previous monthly newsletters can be found at:

https://wiltshirechildrensservices.co.uk/our-services/ waas/waas-newsletter/

1218 years 95

Support in Wiltshire: Autism Parent Programme 4 or ‘SWAPP 4’

Area covered Wiltshire wide online course via Microsoft Teams. Participants must be Wiltshire residents.

What it does: This is an online course via Microsoft Teams for parents and children with autism in school years 7 13 and their child’s setting or school. It aims to build understanding of autism and related issues including communication, sensory issues and behaviour. The programme involves six group sessions usually one a week for 6 weeks. Each session lasts approximately 2 hours. Sessions are conducted by two professionals who have training and experience in supporting Autistic young people. A member of the child’s school staff is encouraged to attend if possible to ensure a consistent approach around the child.

How to access: The child must have a formal written diagnosis of autism. A parent can request an application form by telephone or email. Each family will be offered two places for family members and a third place for the child’s school or setting.

Website: https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/4264/AutismParent-Programme-SWAPP for an application form.

Telephone: 01225 718225 01225 718 095

Email: tsls.operationaloffice@wiltshire.gov.uk

12 -

18 years

Community Connecting

Area covered

What it does:

How to access

Website:

It offers sessions delivered over 4 weeks to students with disabilities within Wiltshire schools and colleges to help them to prepare to play as full a part as possible in their community. Sessions include hobbies, travel, volunteering and friendships.

It is available to young people attending Wiltshire schools or colleges aged 14—25 who have a My Plan or EHCP. It is also open to Autistic young people aged 16—25 who are resident in Wiltshire but do not have a My Plan or Statement of SEN.

Referrals are made by professionals including Social Worker, SEND Lead Worker or Teacher, Employment coach, WIADS, LDAS, Internship Job Coach.

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk

Click “list of services”. Scroll to C and click Community Connecting or visit adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/information/ community-connecting

Email: west.cc@wiltshire.gov.uk

Telephone: 01225 718004

1218 years 97

All of Wiltshire

Growing Up and Moving On—A Guide for Young People

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access

Website:

This is a guide for young people aged 13 years old and above written by Wiltshire Council to help prepare young people for adulthood. It covers education, employment, training, independent living, being part of your community and health matters.

It is written for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) including young people in care or care leavers who have a support plan or EHCP. Also if the young people has complex needs, disabilities or is considered vulnerable.

Through the local offer page

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk

1218 years 98

Wiltshire Employment Support Team “West

Area covered

All of Wiltshire

What it does: Wiltshire Employment Support and Training (WEST) provided by Wiltshire Council helps young people with SEND find and sustain appropriate paid employment with local employers. It also runs a supported internship scheme.

How to access

It is available to young people aged 14 25 who have a My Plan or EHCP. It is also open to young people with ASC aged 16 25 who are resident in Wiltshire but do not have a My Plan or EHCP.

Referrals are made by professionals including Social Worker, Teacher or SEND Leader Worker, WIADS, Internship Job Coach, Adult Care and LDAS.

Website: www.workwiltshire.co.uk/west

Email: west.cc@wiltshire.gov.uk

Telephone: 01225 718 004

1218 years 99

”

Wiltshire Service Users Network (WSUN)

Autism Hub

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does: Wiltshire Autism Hub supports individuals 14+ years with a diagnosis of Autism, living in Wiltshire. They provide direct assistance to help you with particular issues you might be facing such as housing or applying for benefits. They offer 1:2:1 support, peer group support and travel support. Their website is packed with useful local information on Autism.

How to access Self Referral

Website: www.wsun.co.uk

Email: info@wsun.co.uk

Telephone: 01380 871 800

Address: Wiltshire Service Users’ Network

The Independent Living Centre

St George Road Semington BA14 6JQ

1218 years 100

Bath University Autism Summer Schools

Area covered Bath

What it does:

How to access

Website:

This is a free of charge, one night residential summer school that aims to give students with ASC the chance to experience Higher Education. It is for a students and a parent/carer who will accompany them with overnight accommodation for both visitors. The aim is to gently equip the students with the skills for managing independent learning and living skills.

Available to year 11 students who are due to take their GCSE exams and are aiming for mostly grade 6 or above. It is not a requirement that the student wants to go to Uni as the programme aims to aid transition and development in a wide range of areas.

Applications are made via the website.

www.bath.ac.uk/campaigns/autism-summer-school/

Email: campus-events-teams@bath.ac.uk

1218 years 101

Wiltshire Short Breaks Scheme

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

One of the ways that Wiltshire Council provides short breaks to children and young people who have SEND is through the Short Breaks Scheme (SBS).

www.wiltshireparentcarercouncil.co.uk

For further information about the SBS, including eligibility, options available and how and when to apply.

The ‘What’s On’ page also has lots of information on other activities and clubs available in Wiltshire.

Telephone: 01225 764 647

Email:

admin@wiltspcc.co.uk

1218 years 102

Splash—Community First

Area covered

What it does:

How to access:

Wiltshire and Swindon

Splash are unable to provide support for young people with high care needs as parent / carers are not allowed to attend sessions.

Splash is aged 9 - 16 years. Splash victims of crime, under 8 -18 years old. Parent / carers can self refer their child or a professional from school.

Website: www.splash-wiltshire.org.uk

Telephone: 01380 732 829

Address: info@splash-wiltshire.org.uk

1218 years 103

The Mix

Website: www.themix.org.uk

Helpline: 0808 808 4994 Monday—Saturday, 4pm—11pm. Free helpline with trained supporters that young people talk to about any issue

Email: Can be accessed through the “get support” page on the website at any time and a trained supporter will respond with 24 hours., Monday Saturday.

1218 years 104

Nationwide

Area covered

Health for Teens

What it does: A website that covers all aspects of teenage health issues. There is a section for teenagers with autism that covers consent, periods, healthy relationships and sex plus mental health issues. Written by the NHS for teenagers

Website: www.healthforteens.co.uk/search/autism

1218 years 105

Area covered Nationwide

No Worries

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Referral

This is a young persons sexual health and contraception service for young people and adults from age 13 24 years old. The confidential service offers:

• Emergency contraception

• Free condoms and condom demonstration

• Pregnancy testing

• Chlamydia self test kits and treatment available for the young person and their partner.

• Advice and support around sexual health

The service is available at 18 participating GPS and 15 pharmacies.

You don’t have to be registered at a No Worries GP to make an appointment. There is a list of the participating GP’s and pharmacies along with the contact details on: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-sexual-health or you can follow on Facebook.

Website: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-sexual-health

Email: noworries.nhswiltshire@nhs.net

Facebook: Facebook.com/noworrieswiltshire

1218 years 106

Wise Wiltshire Sexual Health Clinics

Area covered Wiltshire and Swindon

What it does:

Provides clinics Wiltshire wide that provide:

• Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections

• Free condoms

• Contraception, including emergency

• HIV testing and counselling for people who are HIV+

• Hepatitis B vaccination

• Information and advice about abortion

• Help for people who have been sexually assaulted

It has lots of useful information on their website for under 25 years old concerning consent, sexting and what happens at a clinic.

Referral

Website:

Self referral. You can find out local clinics on their website.

www.sexualhealth.salisbury.nhs.uk

Email: shc-tr.sexualhealth@nhs.net with your name, date of birth, postcode and contact number. They will endeavour to reply in 3 days.

1218 years 107

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide, but not including Swindon.

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

Information on CAMHS and help / advice for many mental health conditions can be found at: www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/camhs

Telephone: SPA: 01865 903 330

Crisis Line 24/7—0800 023 2133

Email:

wiltscamhsspainfo@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk

1218 years 108

Family Counselling Trust

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access:

This is through a referral form from a GP, school, children centre or other charities. Or they can accept referrals from families, parents or young people.

Website: www.familycounsellingtrust.org

Telephone: 07375 535 407

Email: flo-Wiltshire@familycounsellingtrust.org

1218 years 109

Talking Therapies (previously known as Improving Access to Psychological Therapies

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does: Aims to help people access support for a range of wellbeing problems. They offer Individual and group psychological therapies in accordance with the NICE guidelines for common mental health problems, such as low mood, depress, anxiety, stress, OCD, phobias and PTSD.

How to access: Self referral from the age of 16 with a registered GP in Wiltshire. Professionals can also refer you.

Website: www.awp.nhs.uk/our-services/talking-therapies

Telephone: 01380 731335 to book an appointment

Email: awp.wilts-iapt@nhs.net

1218 years 110

On Your Mind” Wellbeing Service

Area covered Wiltshire

As this is an early help service, there is no crisis support. You will need to contact CAMHS on their mental health helpline 0800 023 2133. In an emergency dial 999

How to access: They take referrals from young people, parent / carers and professionals via the Single Point of Access (SPA) or online.

Website: www.onyourmind.org.uk

Telephone: SPA—0300 247 0090, option 4. Monday—Friday, 09:00—17:00

Email: vcl.wiltshirespa@nhs.net

1218 years 111

“

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access: To find out more or to register email: counselling @wiltshiremind.co.uk

Website: www.wiltshiremind.co.uk

Email: counselling @wiltshiremind.co.uk

1218 years 112 MIND Wiltshire (11—18)

What it does:

How to access:

Offers free, confidential counselling and support to both male / females aged 13+ who have been raped, sexually abused or sexually exploited. They help survivors make sense of what’s happened to them and begin to make life changing choices for themselves. This service is not suitable for clients with severe cognitive or learning difficulties, or severe speech and language difficulties. There are offices based in Trowbridge and Chippenham.

Self referral

Telephone: Referrals: - 01225 751 568

Admin: 01225 777 562

Address:

Revivial Wiltshire RASAC

Po Box 4157 Trowbridge Wilts BA14 4AW

Email: appointments@revivial-wiltshirerasac.org.uk

1218 years 113

covered Wiltshire

Revival Wiltshire Area

Wiltshire Mental Health Inclusion Service

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Run by Rethink Mental Illness this is a service that provides a community based mental health service for anyone over the age of 16 years. It is there to support people that are feeling isolated or lonely due to their mental health. It offers 1:1 support with an inclusion coach who will help you access community services and / or help you get involved with your community. They also have 3 mental health drop in hubs in Salisbury, Trowbridge and Chippenham. They offer peer and volunteer opportunities for activities such as helping people get online or supporting people to access public transport. Plus an online community offering peer support along with advice and guidance called CLIC Wiltshire.

How to access: Self referral by either calling 07467 764171 or emailing wiltsmhis@rethink.org. Professionals can also refer through the online referral form found on the website.

Office hours are Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00

Website:

www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/services/communitysupport/wiltshire-mental-health-inclusion-service/

Address: The Independent Living Centre St Georges Road Semington Wiltshire BA14 6JQ

Email: wiltsmhis@rethink.org

1218 years 114

What it does:

How to access:

This is an app for 16 year old and above that has been developed by Autistica and Kings college London. The programme is accessed via the app and it helps Autistic people to understand and manage their anxiety. You log and track your worries, which helps individuals to understand what is causing their anxiety, and then supports you in finding ways to deal with it. The programme has been developed from adapted CBT approaches, and daily logins will cover a full CBT course that has been designed specifically for Autistic people.

It can be downloaded for free from Google Play or the Apple App Store

1218 years 115

Molehill Mountain

Area covered Nationwide

Stem 4—Supporting Teenage Mental Health

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

Supports positive mental health in teenagers. They provide information and advice on mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, self harm, eating disorders and addiction for both the young person and parent carers. There are free downloadable apps that can help support a young person as well as one for parent carers to help them provide mental health support.

Calm Harm: Helps teenagers manage or resist the urge to self harm.

Clear Fear: Helps children and young people manage symptoms of anxiety

More Mood: Helps teenagers manage low mood and depression

Worth Warrior: Helps young people manage low self worth, poor body image and related eating disorders

Combined Minds: Helps family and friends provide mental health support.

They also provide online mental health courses for young people and professionals.

Self referral via their website where the apps can be downloaded.

https://stem4.org.uk/

1218 years 116

Barnardo’s Kingfisher ASC Clubs

Area covered Devizes, Chippenham and Trowbridge

What it does:

How to access: Self referral by booking in advance.

Telephone: 07590 624 260

Email info.wiltshireshortbreaks@barnardos.org.uk

1218 years 117

Buzz Action—The Element Cafe

Area covered

What it does:

Based at The Bowman Centre, Shears Drive, Amesbury, Salisbury, SP4 7XT

A targeted youth project aimed at young people aged 12 18 years old with a broad spectrum of additional needs (including SEND). They offer a wide range of activities, including circus skills, and they have a higher adult to young person ration to support young people. It is held on Wednesday evenings 6:30pm 8:30pm.

Website: www.buzzaction.org

Telephone: 01722 340 440

Email: office@buzzaction.org

1218 years 118

What it does:

Youth club for Autistic young people aged 8 18 years living in and around Salisbury. Run by Elizabeth House and Barnardos they provide monthly groups in a safe environment offering arts, crafts, social skills and cookery. They can also help with sign posting. The groups are limited to 10 people.

How to access: Self referral but places have to be pre-booked.

Telephone: 01722 323 783

Email freda.elizabethhouse@gmail.com

1218 years 119

Cygnets

Area covered Salisbury

Area covered Melksham. For ages 13 25 years

What it does: Youth Club for young people with disabilities or learning difficulties. Young people can get to meet new people from their local community, develop social skills, provide them with valuable practical learning opportunities and experiences that will help them later in life. Activities include cooking, baking, sewing, pool and table tennis, drawing, writing, football, basketball, karaoke, Just Dance, job search and CV writing.

Where is it held:: Atworth Youth Centre Studley Farm Lane Bath Road Atworth Melksham

SN12 8SB

Monday 6:30pm 9pm. This club opens every Monday throughout the year, including school holidays. Only close over Christmas and bank holiday for 2 weeks.

Referrals: Can be referred in by a parent. Application form is available on the website.

Website:

www.youngmelksham.org.uk

Email: hello@4youth.org.uk

Telephone: 01225 667 327

1218

120

years

No Limits SEND Youth Club

Seeds for Success

Area covered

What it does:

How to access:

Self referral by contacting Ali. Also referral forms on website

Website: www.seeds4success.org.uk/bridging-project

Email: ali@seeds4success.org.uk

Telephone: 07585 723 824

Address: The Recreation Ground Queens Road Mere BA12 6EP

1218 years 121

South Wiltshire Mere Youth Centre

Bath Autism and Neuro Diversity Spectrums (BANDS) CIC

Area covered

What it does:

Groups are held wherever there is a need in Bath and Somerset but are open to people who are willing to travel. At the moment there’s one in Bath, one Thursday a month, Bristol one Tuesday a month, Frome one Thursday a month and Weston Supermare one Saturday a month.

Runs social opportunities for over 16’s who identify as autistic and / or other neurodiverse conditions. BANDS aims to provide a safe and welcoming environment for people, especially those without social opportunities which encourage peer to peer networking and developing and maintaining shared interests. The groups include a cinema group, café group and pub group. The CEO is on hand to clarify and implement the guideline of the group.

How to access: Self referral for over 16’s

Website: www.bands-cic.co.uk

Email: bathfiltonbands@gmail.com

Telephone: 07905 345 591

1218 years 122

Ambitious about Autism—Ambitious Youth Network

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

This is a rapidly growing network to enable more autistic young people to have their voices heard. Through the network, autistic young people share experiences, connect with others, have their say on Ambitious about Autism projects as well as access to a range of opportunities to advocate and improve services for autistic young people.

Peer support sessions are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings between 17:45 18:45 via zoom. Youth network opportunities are mainly centred around educating the public about autism and making life better for autistic young people. The majority of these opportunities are paid.

How to access: Self referral via website

Website:

www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/what-we-do/ connecting-young-people/online-youth-network

1218 years 123

Spectrum Gaming

Area Covered: Nationwide; for age group 13 17

What it does:

Website:

Spectrumgaming.net is an online community for autistic young people with 3 intended outcomes: Building Friendships. A lot of autistic young people are lonely, isolated and struggle with friendships. We create a community where autistic young people feel comfortable and can make strong friendships in a safe way. Anyone from across the UK can access.

Increasing Self– Acceptance—Because of how much people misunderstand autism and the way it is diagnosed, unfortunately many autistic people hate their diagnosis or feel ashamed of being autistic. We want to make sure as many autistic people as possible are able to accept their differences and live the happiest lives they can.

Advocacy We want to create a movement that will have a positive influence on society through advocacy, and enable strategic change to ensure the needs of Autistic people are met across the UK. We have created a platform where young people can share their voices through content, talks and more. This is moderated by volunteers and team of trustees. Under 13s can join.

Discord server is offered for parents of autistic children who are under 13. This enables children to connect safely through their parents, in addition to being able to communicate easily and take part in regular gaming events.

Minecraft Server. For 13 17 year olds, a Discord server is offered which enables young people to connect, play games together and take part in regular events. The community also creates content together, including YouTube videos and podcasts.

www.spectrumgaming.net

1218 years 124

Jumpin Fun Inflatable Park

Area covered Salisbury

Address: Jumpin Fun, 1 Castlegate Business Park, Old Sarum, Salisbury, SP4 6 QX

Website: www.jumpinfun.co.uk

Telephone: 01722 445503

Email: Salisbury@jumpinfun.co.uk

1218 years 125

Address: 17 Silver Street, Trowbridge, Wilts BA14 8AE

Website: www.baloossoftplay.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 764 753

Email: baloossoftplay@outlook.com

1218 years 126

Area covered Trowbridge

Baloo

What it does: Multi level indoor soft play area that has a sensory room. For ages 0 12 years old

Larkhill Space Station

Area covered Larkhill, Salisbury

What it does: A soft play area which has a sensory room that can be hired for an hour for up to 5 children. This is a separate cost to the play area. Sessions need to be pre-booked on their website or by phone.

Address: Larkhill Space Station, 406 The Packway, Larkhill, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 8QA

Website: www.spacestationlarkhill.com

Telephone: 07831 203162

Email: emily.gillies01@gmail.com

1218 years 127

Inclusive

What it does: Provides a dedicated play session for children with complex and / or additional needs. This is in a friendly environment where you can chat, play and have fun.

How to access: This is for children aged 4 12 years at Springfield campus, Corsham on the first and third Saturday of each month, 3 5pm. Book by telephone

Telephone: 01249 468 460

Email: mickabrack@yahoo.com

1218 years 128

Play Sessions Area covered Corsham and surrounding area

Malmesbury LGBTQ+ Youth Group

Area covered Malmesbury

What it does: LGBTQ+ youth club for local people to attend. Held on Fridays from 15:45 17:15. It is a safe place for young people who identify, are questioning or just looking to learn more.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Tamara Howell.

Telephone: 07713 958 641

Email: tamara.howell@communitymas.co.uk

1218 years 129

Out of the Can—Swindon

Area covered Swindon and surrounding area

What it does:

A young person led LGBTQ+ action youth group supported by adult volunteers. The group will give you the freedom to be yourself in a supportive environment. There are 2 groups held on a Tuesday. Group 1 is for young people aged between 12 15 years old. 17:00 18:30. Group 2 is for young people aged between 15 19 years old. 18:45 20:15

How to access: Via the website on the contact us page

Website:

www.outofthecan.org

1218 years 130

Seeds for Success—LGBTQIA+ Support Group

Area covered South Wiltshire venue to be confirmed on booking as it varies within the area.

What it does:

This is a support group for young people aged 13—25 years who are questioning their gender identity or orientation or already identify as LGBTQ+. Here they can meet others from similar backgrounds to chat, make friends and share experiences. Supportive friends are also welcome to attend to enable access and participation. It’s held every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6:30 8:30pm.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Rose.

Website: www.seeds4success.org.uk/lgbtq

Email: rose@seeds4success.org.uk

Telephone: 07585 723 824

Address: The Recreation Ground Queens Road Mere BA12 6EP

1218 years 131

The Rise Trust

Area covered Chippenham

What it does: LGBTQ+ youth club with supportive wellbeing sessions. Held on a Tuesday, 6:30pm 8:30pm.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Danielle Blake

Website: www.therisetrust.org/services/youth-activities/ where links to their Facebook and Instagram can be found.

Email: danielleb@therisetrust.org

Telephone: 07715 681 950

1218 years 132

Area covered

What it does:

Services not available for Wiltshire residents unless the young person attends a school / college in Bath.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.offtherecord-banes.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 312 482

1218 years 133

Off the Record

BANES Bath and North East Somerset

Building Bridges

Area covered

What it does:

Wiltshire

Supports people aged 16+ who have significant barriers and challenges to move towards education and employment. Taking part is entirely voluntary and all advice and support is offered free of charge. The programme provides a support worker who will work closely with each participant. They can then offer debt / benefit advice, access to functional skills and training, counselling, anxiety and mental health support, self confidence courses and volunteering and work experience activities.

How to access: Referral can be made through the link on their website.

Website:

Email:

www.buildingbridgessw.org.uk

hello@buildingbridgessw.org.uk

1218 years 134

Wiltshire School of Gymnastics

Gymability

Area covered Melksham

What it does:

Telephone:

Email:

Address:

Offers a drop in gym sessions for a child with an physical, mental, emotional, social language and / or sensory challenges. For age range 3 12.

Children and their parents / carers can explore our gymnastics apparatus with our coaches in attendance. Spaces are strictly limited and must be booked in advanced.

Held on Tuesday, 12:30 1:30pm

There is a charge for these sessions.

01225 793 402

info@wiltshiregymnastics.co.uk

The Wiltshire School of Gymastics

Lysander Road

Bowerhill

Melksham

SN12 6SP

1218 years 135

18—

25 years

The Family Hub service offers parents and carers:

• Parenting advice

• Family relationship advice

• Information on healthy lifestyles

• Child attachment and trauma informed support

• Early learning and communication support

• Signposting for families to access a full range of services in their area

• Advice on how to access childcare provided by nurseries and childminders

• Family support services in Wiltshire

• Parenting courses and parent support groups in Wiltshire

• Support for children with specialist needs

• Help with volunteering and returning to work

How to access: Parents are welcome to contact directly.

Website:

To find more information about family hubs, please go to:

https://spurgeons.org/how-we-help/family-life/earlyyears-and-family-support/family-hub-wiltshire-council/

Or telephone: 0800 970 4669

Information is also available on the All Together website:

https://wiltshiretogether.org.uk/alltogether/family-hubs

18 — 25 years 137

Family Hubs Area covered Across Wiltshire

Introduction to Support and Services for those aged 18—25

Once the young person in your care is over 18, finding information about and access to relevant services and support can become a little more complicated!

From 18 years old, your Health needs are dealt with by Adult Health services (including Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy and Psychology services).

Post Diagnosis Support for Young People

A young person who received a diagnosis of an ASC at a younger age may want to find out more about what having an ASC means to them as they get older and what their particular skills and needs are.

There are several websites and online forums which can be very helpful, giving informal support and peer group feedback. Some key ones are listed on the following pages as well as in the resources section.

It is also possible simply to access the post-diagnostic sessions offered by the Wiltshire Autism Diagnostic Service, which are offered as part of their Adult Diagnostic Service.

18 — 25 years 138

Splash—Community First

Area covered

What it does:

How to access:

Wiltshire and Swindon

Splash are unable to provide support for young people with high care needs as parent / carers are not allowed to attend sessions.

Splash is aged 9 - 16 years. Splash victims of crime, under 8 -18 years old. Parent / carers can self refer their child or a professional from school.

Website: www.splash-wiltshire.org.uk

Telephone: 01380 732 829

Address: info@splash-wiltshire.org.uk

18 — 25 years 139

Wiltshire Autism Diagnosis Service (WADS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide except Swindon

What it does: WADS provides an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) assessment service to adults (post 18 years) registered with a Wiltshire GP. They also provide a limited amount of post diagnostic support to help Autistic people learn about the condition and access a range of appropriate services with a one-off post diagnostic session. Locations are in Salisbury, Devizes, Warminster and Marlborough.

How to access: This is via a GP referral or secondary care mental service referral.

Website: www.awp.nhs.uk/our-services/specialist-services/bristolautism-spectrum-service/wiltshire-autism-diagnosticservice-wads

Telephone: 01722 820 371

Email: awp.wads@nhs.net

18 — 25 years 140

Adult Learning Disability & Autism (The Learning Disability and Autism Service LDAS)

Area covered Wiltshire wide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

This is an adult social care service made up of social workers and social care practioners who work with adults who have been diagnosed learning disability and / or ACS with social care needs. They can do Care Act assessments that look at things in your life that you can do and the things you find difficult in your life. They provide information, advice and signposting. If you have eligible care needs they provide a support plan which will put in place systems that will help you stay safe and achieve the things you want to do. The service will work alongside other agencies such as mental health services, WSUN and WCIL. They also work with Children’s Social Care to support young people moving into adult services.

You can refer on the Your Care You Support website. A professional can refer for you. Opening times Monday Thursday 8:30 17:20 and Friday 08:30 16:20.

https://adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/Information/referrals-andforms

Telephone: 0300 456 0111

Email:

adviceandcontact@wiltshire.gov.uk or you can write to the council requesting a social care assessment (draft letter in resources part of the directory) and send to:

The Learning and Disability and Autism Service County Hall, By the Sea Road, Trowbridge, BA14 8JQ

You will need a diagnosis letter or a GP letter confirming your diagnosis to access this service.

18 — 25 years 141

Wiltshire Service Users Network (WSUN)

Autism Hub

Area covered Wiltshire

How to access Self Referral

Website: www.wsun.co.uk

Email: info@wsun.co.uk

Telephone: 01380 871 800

Address: Wiltshire Service Users’ Network

The Independent Living Centre

St George Road

Semington BA14 6JQ

—

years 142

Growing Up and Moving On—A Guide for Young People

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access

Website:

It is written for young people with special educations needs and disabilities (SEND) including young people in care or care leavers who have a support plan or EHCP. Also if the young people has complex needs, disabilities or is considered vulnerable.

Through the local offer page

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk

18 — 25 years 143

Further Education—Post 18 Years

There are many options, post 18 years, for further education. They can be University, Colleges or Apprenticeships. Qualifications can vary from Degrees to Diplomas, Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas.

University /College

Help can be obtained by applying for the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). It is support that covers study related costs because of mental health conditions, long term illness or any disability that can effect study such as Autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy to name a few. The type of support and how much you can receive will depend on your individual circumstances. It is not dependent on household income and it does not need to be repaid.

Information can be found on: www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowance-dsa.

UCAS: www.ucas.com/undergraduate/applying-university/individual-needs/disabledstudents/support-disabled-students-frequently-asked-questions

Most Universities will have on their websites what is available for Autistic students and how they can help. Applications are made via UCAS website, www.ucas.com. The University of Bath also runs a yearly summer school see 12 18 year entry.

Apprenticeships

Unfortunately DSA is not available for Apprenticeships. Students should speak to their employer about access to work arrangements.

Information about Apprenticeships can be found here:

• www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

• www.apprenticeships.gov.uk

• Email: nationalhelpdesk@findapprentice.service.gov.uk

18 — 25 years 144

Supported Internships

What it does:

How to access

Wiltshire College:

These are individual study programmes that help young people aged 18 24 years old who have an EHCP and need more support than would be available through WEST to gain practical experience and work skills. It includes on-the-job training, with the support and expertise of experienced job coaches, and college based learning with access to any relevant qualifications needed for the job the young person would like to do.

Choose the college where you would like to study and complete a college application form.

Website: www.wiltshire.ac.uk

Telephone: 01225 350 035

Email: info@wiltshire.ac.uk

Fairfield College

Contact Graeme Atney

Email: Graeme.atney@ffc.ac.uk

Telephone: 01373 866 066

Website: www.ffc.ac.uk

18 — 25 years 145

Wiltshire College and Fairfield College

Area covered Delivered by

University Transition Autism School (UTAS)

Area covered

What it does:

How to access

Website:

Run by University of Bath but open to any university student in England.

It is a series of two events (in person or online) for autistic students starting University in the Autumn. It aims to provide support to autistic students as they begin university and throughout the first term by connecting students online through a similar experience.

Self referral. Applications are via the website and early referral is advised to due demand.

www.bath.ac.uk/events/university-transition-autismschool-utas

—

years 146

Wiltshire Employment Support Team “West”

Area covered

All of Wiltshire

How to access

It is available to young people aged 14 25 who have a My Plan or EHCP. It is also open to young people with ASC aged 16—25 who are resident in Wiltshire but do not have a My Plan or EHCP.

Referrals are made by professionals including Social Worker, Teacher or SEND Leader Worker, WIADS, Internship Job Coach, Adult Care and LDAS.

Website: www. workwiltshire.co.uk/west or

Email: west.cc@wiltshire.gov.uk

Telephone: 01225 718 004

18 — 25 years 147

Community Connecting

Area covered

What it does:

How to access

Website:

Referrals are made by professionals including Social Worker, SEND Lead Worker or Teacher, Employment coach, WIADS, LDAS, Internship Job Coach.

https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk

Click “list of services”. Scroll to C and click Community Connecting or visit adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/information/ community-connecting

Email: west.cc@wiltshire.gov.uk

Telephone: 01225 718004

18 — 25 years 148

All of Wiltshire

Work Wiltshire

Area covered

What it does:

Website:

Wiltshire wide

Helps young people from choosing their GCSE’s to finding a job / training post 18 years old. It has links to career pages and supporting into employment. There are even sign posting links for young people with SEND.

www.workwiltshire.co.uk

18 — 25 years 149

Employment Autism

What it does:

Website:

Email:

Provides information and advice for anyone looking for work or an employer wanting to help Autistic employees. This includes reasonable adjustments, workplace etiquette, interviews, law and employment and benefits, such as the Access to work scheme. There are podcasts and blogs on such things as handling rejection when not accepted for the job and surviving online meetings.

www.employmentautism.org.uk

info@employmentautism.org.uk

—

years 150

Nationwide

Area covered

Your Care, Your Support Wiltshire

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to Access:

Website:

It is a website that gives information about the adult care process in Wiltshire and has a list of services to help people remain independent. This includes supported living, money, work, carer support and things to do.

Accessed online for over 18’s

https://adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/

18 — 25 years 151

Good Lives Alliance

Area covered

What it does:

How to Access:

Website:

Wiltshire wide

It is a list of accredited providers that Wiltshire Council have checked to ensure they provide good support of different levels, according to need. This can range from full time, live-in care to regular visiting or an on-call support service. The aim is to support people in their own home and promote independent living.

It is for people aged 18 and above (or 16 and above for people with additional difficulties who’s eligibility will be based upon a Childrens’ and Families Act Assessment).

A Care Manager from Adult Social Care will carry out a holistic assessment of need, determined by a Care Acts 2014 assessment. This service is not intended to support people whose needs to be met with the Council’s “Help to Live at Home Alliance”.

https://adults.wiltshire.gov.uk/information/good-livesalliance

Telephone: 0300 456 0111

18 — 25 years 152

As We Are Group

Area Covered Wiltshire wide

What it does: This is a peer support group for Autistic adults that meets once a week (usually on a Friday during the day). It’s a social group and members often choose what activity they would like to do each session. There is also informal peer -support from other members and knowledge sharing.

How to Access: Self referral from any Autistic adult. For more information contact Richard Conlon

Email: richardconlon@wsun.co.uk or enquiries to info:wsun.co.uk

18 — 25 years 153

Area covered Melksham. For ages 13 25 years

Where is it held::

Atworth Youth Centre

Studley Farm Lane

Bath Road

Atworth Melksham

SN12 8SB

Monday 6:30pm 9pm. This club opens every Monday throughout the year, including school holidays. Only close over Christmas and bank holiday for 2 weeks.

Referrals: Can be referred in by a parent. Application form is available on the website.

Website:

Email:

www.youngmelksham.org.uk

hello@4youth.org.uk

Telephone: 01225 667 327

18 — 25 years 154

No Limits SEND Youth Club

Malmesbury LGBTQ+ Youth Group

Area covered Malmesbury

What it does: LGBTQ+ youth club for local people to attend. Held on Fridays from 15:45 17:15. It is a safe place for young people who identify, are questioning or just looking to learn more.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Tamara Howell.

Telephone: 07713 958 641

Email: tamara.howell@communitymas.co.uk

18 — 25 years 155

Out of the Can—Swindon

Area covered Swindon and surrounding area

What it does:

How to access: Via the website on the contact us page

Website:

www.outofthecan.org

18 — 25 years 156

Buzz Action—The Element Cafe

Area covered

What it does:

Based at The Bowman Centre, Shears Drive, Amesbury, Salisbury, SP4 7XT

Website: www.buzzaction.org

Telephone: 01722 340 440

Email: office@buzzaction.org

18 — 25 years 157

Seeds for Success

Area covered

What it does: A weekly youth club for young people with a special need or disability, are vulnerable and find socialising difficult, aged 11 18. Sessions are run at Mere youth club every Tuesday night, 6:30 9pm. Transport is provided from Tisbury and surrounding villages. There is also a member of staff available to come and meet the young person at home to discuss any specific needs and barriers to participation, or to be a familiar face for them when they start.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Ali.. Also referral forms on website

Website: www.seeds4success.org.uk/bridging-project

Email: ali@seeds4success.org.uk

Telephone: 07585 723 824

Address: The Recreation Ground Queens Road Mere BA12 6EP

18 — 25 years 158

South Wiltshire Mere Youth Centre

Bath Autism and Neuro Diversity Spectrums (BANDS) CIC

Area covered

What it does:

How to access: Self referral for over 16’s

Website: www.bands-cic.co.uk

Email: bathfiltonbands@gmail.com

Telephone: 07905 345 591

18 — 25 years 159

Seeds for Success—LGBTQ+ Support Group

Area covered South Wiltshire venue to be confirmed on booking as it varies within the area.

What it does: This is a support group for young people aged 13 25 years who are questioning their gender identity or orientation or already identify as LGBTQ+. Here they can meet others from similar backgrounds to chat, make friends and share experiences. Supportive friends are also welcome to attend to enable access and participation. It’s held every 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6:30 8:30pm.

How to access: Self referral by contacting Rose.

Website: www.seeds4success.org.uk/lgbtq

Email: rose@seeds4success.org.uk

Telephone: 07585 723 824

Address: The Recreation Ground Queens Road Mere BA12 6EP

18 — 25 years 160

Ambitious about Autism—Ambitious Youth Network

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

How to access: Self referral via website

Website:

www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/what-we-do/ connecting-young-people/online-youth-network

18 — 25 years 161

Talking Therapies (previously known as Improving Access to Psychological Therapies

Area covered Wiltshire

How to access: Self referral from the age of 16 with a registered GP in Wiltshire. Professionals can also refer you.

Website: www.awp.nhs.uk/our-services/talking-therapies

Telephone: 01380 731335 to book an appointment

Email: awp.wilts-iapt@nhs.net

18 —

162

25 years

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Provides 1:1 counselling support for adults with stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, low mood or emotional distress. At present one to one counselling services are offered over zoom and telephone. The initial assessment is free but there is a £10 charge per session following this. If you are on a low income or worried about the cost then this can be discussed at the first point of contact. There are also weekly peer support groups and information and support pages.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.wiltshiremind.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 706 532

Email: counselling@wiltshiremind.co.uk

18 — 25 years 163

MIND Wiltshire—Post

Years

Primary Care Liaison Service (PCLS)

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does: PCLS provides a first point of contact to access mental health services in Wiltshire. The team offers mental health telephone triage, face-to-face assessments, brief interventions, support, advice and signposting.

How to access: Referrals are made via GP’s, other health professionals or social care professionals. The first appointment will involve discussing your needs to help decide if this is the best service for you, or if another specialist team would be more suitable.

Website: www.awp.nhs.uk

Telephone: North Wiltshire: 01380 737 840

South Wiltshire: 01722 820 372

Address:

North Wiltshire Primary Care Liaison Service

Green Lane Hospital

Marshall Road, Devizes Wiltshire, SN10 5DS

South Wiltshire Primary Care Liaison Service

Fountain Way Hospital

Wilton Road

Salisbury Wilts

SP2 7FD

18 — 25 years 164

Revival Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access:

Self referral

Telephone: Referrals: - 01225 751 568

Admin: 01225 777 562

Address:

Revivial Wiltshire RASAC

Po Box 4157 Trowbridge Wilts BA14 4AW

Email: appointments@revivial-wiltshirerasac.org.uk

18 — 25 years 165

Area covered Wiltshire

Wiltshire Mental Health Inclusion Service

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

How to access: Self referral by either calling 07467 764171 or emailing wiltsmhis@rethink.org. Professionals can also refer through the online referral form found on the website. Office hours are Monday Friday, 09:00 17:00

Website:

www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/services/communitysupport/wiltshire-mental-health-inclusion-service/

Address: The Independent Living Centre St Georges Road

Semington

Wiltshire

BA14 6JQ

Email: wiltsmhis@rethink.org

18 — 25 years 166

What it does:

This is an app for 16 year old and above that has been developed by Autistica and Kings college London. The programme is accessed via the app and it helps people with Autism to understand and manage their anxiety. You log and track your worries, which helps individuals to understand what is causing their anxiety, and then supports you in finding ways to deal with it. The programme has been developed from adapted CBT approaches, and daily logins will cover a full CBT course that has been designed specifically for Autistic people.

How to access: It can be downloaded for free from Google Play or the Apple App Store

18 —

years 167

Wiltshire

Molehill Mountain Area covered

Stem 4—Supporting Teenage Mental Health

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

How to access:

Website:

Calm Harm: Helps teenagers manage or resist the urge to self harm.

Clear Fear: Helps children and young people manage symptoms of anxiety

More Mood: Helps teenagers manage low mood and depression

Worth Warrior: Helps young people manage low self worth, poor body image and related eating disorders

Combined Minds: Helps family and friends provide mental health support.

They also provide online mental health courses for young people and professionals.

Self referral via their website where the apps can be downloaded.

https://stem4.org.uk/

18 — 25 years 168

Health for Teens

What it does:

A website that covers all aspects of teenage health issues. There is a section for teenagers with autism that covers consent, period, healthy relationships and sex plus mental health issues. Written by the NHS for teenagers

Website: www.healthforteens.co.uk/search/autism

18 — 25 years 169

Area covered Nationwide

No Worries

Area covered Wiltshire

What it does:

Referral

Website:

This is a young persons sexual health and contraception service for young people and adults from age 13 24 years old. The confidential service offers:

• Emergency contraception

• Free condoms and condom demonstration

• Pregnancy testing

• Chlamydia self test kits and treatment available for the young person and their partner.

• Advice and support around sexual health

The service is available at 18 participating GPS and 15 pharmacies.

www.wiltshire.gov.uk/public-health-sexual-health

Email: noworries.nhswiltshire@nhs.net

Facebook: Facebook.com/noworrieswiltshire

18 — 25 years 170

Wise Wiltshire Sexual Health Clinics

Area covered Wiltshire and Swindon

What it does:

Provides clinics Wiltshire wide that provide:

• Testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections

• Free condoms

• Contraception, including emergency

• HIV testing and counselling for people who are HIV+

• Hepatitis B vaccination

• Information and advice about abortion

• Help for people who have been sexually assaulted

It has lots of useful information on their website for under 25 years old concerning consent, sexting and what happens at a clinic.

Referral

Website:

Self referral. You can find out local clinics on their website.

www.sexualhealth.salisbury.nhs.uk

Email: shc-tr.sexualhealth@nhs.net with your name, date of birth, postcode and contact number. They will endeavour to reply in 3 days.

18 — 25 years 171

Area covered

What it does:

Services not available for Wiltshire residents unless the young person attends a school / college in Bath.

How to access: Self referral

Website: www.offtherecord-banes.co.uk

Telephone: 01225 312 482

18 — 25 years 172

Record

Off the

BANES Bath and North East Somerset

Building Bridges

Area covered

What it does:

Wiltshire

How to access: Referral can be made through the link on their website.

Website:

Email:

www.buildingbridgessw.org.uk

hello@buildingbridgessw.org.uk

—

years 173

The Mix

Area covered

Nationwide

Website: www.themix.org.uk

Helpline: 0808 808 4994 Monday Saturday, 4pm 11pm. Free helpline with trained supporters that young people talk to about any issue

Email: Can be accessed through the “get support” page on the website at any time and a trained supporter will respond with 24 hours., Monday Saturday.

18 — 25 years 174

Resources

Legislation and Guidelines

Autism Act 2009

The Autism Act is an act passed by Parliament of the UK and is the first and only disability specific legislation. It makes provision about the needs of adults with Autism.

The National Strategy for Autistic Children, Young People and Adults

Following the Act on Autism Strategy for England was published in 2010 called “Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives” followed by “Think Autism” in 2014 but this has now been replaced in 2021 with “The National Strategy for Autistic Children, Young People and Adults”. This strategy now includes children and young people for the first time and it also focuses on the effect of the Covid Pandemic. It is the law for every Local Authority to respond to the strategy and create their own local versions.

Wiltshire Autism Strategy

This is a five year strategy running from 2022 2027 supporting children, young people and adults as they move through the various transitions in life. You can find the strategy at:

https://cms.wiltshire.gov.uk/documents/s205945/Wiltshire%20Autism%20strategy.pdf

OR using your search engine, insert ‘Wiltshire Autism Strategy’.

NICE Quality Standards

In January 2014, NICE produced a Quality Standard to support the above. Quality Standards describe high priority areas for quality improvement in a defined care or service area. They draw on existing guidance which provides an underpinning, comprehensive set of recommendations and are designed to support the measurement of improvement. The Autism Quality Standard is: QS51 (2014)

176 Resources

Accessing Support

The information in this section has been taken from “Special Education needs and disability. A guide for parents and carers”, published by the Department for Education in August 2014, updated in April 2020.

This section looks at:

• SEN Support: It aims to describe what is means and what the law requires. It tells you what you can expect and where you can go for help.

• Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment and plans: It aims to describe who EHC plans are for and the process of an EHC needs assessment. It also covers how and when children, young people and parents are involved, what you can expect, and where you can get help.

SEN Support

Any support your child gets from their school or other setting should meet their needs. If your child has SEN, they will be able to access help, called SEN support from their early years settings, such as nurseries or childminders, schools and further education institutions such as colleges and 16 19 academies. The SENCo should draw up a SEN support plan which can be called a My Plan, IEP, One Plan depending on the school. Children and young people with more complex needs might instead need an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan. The plan should focus on the outcomes your child needs and wants to achieve and explain how the school will help them to achieve these.

SEN support is part of what is known as the ‘graduated approach’ and in general should work as follows. (This approach varies in how it works depending on the age of your child for example, it may work differently in a nursey than it will in a school).

You may be contacted for example in schools, this will be by your child’s teacher or SENCO if your early years setting, school or college think your child needs SEN support. Or you can approach your child’s school or other setting if you think your child might have SEN. You will be involved and your views will be needed throughout the process, and you will be kept up to date with the progress made. Young people aged 16 25 will be fully involved in designing their own SEN support and provision.

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The Four Stages of SEN support are:

Assess: Your child’s difficulties must be assessed so that the right support can be provided. This should include, for example, asking you what you think, talking to professionals who work with your child (such as their teacher), and looking at records and other information. This needs to be reviewed regularly so that the support provided continues to meet your child’s needs. That might mean getting advice and further assessment from someone like an educational psychologist, a specialist teacher or health professional.

Plan: Your school or other setting needs to agree, with your involvement, the outcome that the SEN support is intended to achieve in other words, how your child will benefit from any support they get and you need to be involved with that. All those involved will need to have a say in deciding what kind of support will be provided, and decide a date by which they will review this so that they can check to see how well the support is working and whether the outcomes have been or are being achieved.

Do: The setting will put the planned support into place. The teacher remains responsible for working with your child on a daily basis, but the SENCO and any support staff or specialist teaching staff involved in providing support should work closely to track your child’s progress and check that the support is being effective.

Review: The support your child receives should be reviewed at the time agreed in the plan. You can then decide together if the support is having a positive impact, whether the outcomes have been, or are being, achieved and if or how any changes should be made.

Education, Health and Care needs assessments and plans

Your child’s school or other setting will often be able to meet the needs of children through SEN support. But sometimes a child or young person needs a more intensive level of specialist help that cannot be met from the resources available to schools and other settings to provide SEN support. In these circumstances, you or young child’s school or other setting could consider asking your local authority for an Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment for your child. This assessment could lead to your child getting an EHC plan (or ‘My Plan’).

Some children and young people will have needs that clearly require an EHC needs assessment and plan and once the local authority is aware of them it should start this process without delay. An EHC plan brings your child’s education, health and social care needs into a single legal document. Your child must have special educational needs to be eligible for a plan. There are other ways children who don’t have SEN can get help, and you can ask your local Information, Advice and Support service for more information about this.

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DO REVIEW

ASSESS PLAN

Requesting an EHC needs assessment

You can ask your local authority for an EHC needs assessment if you think your child needs one. Anyone at your child’s school (child’s teacher) can also ask for an assessment to be carried out. Others who work with your child can also tell the local authority if they think an assessment is needed (such as your doctor, health visitor or nursery worker). If you wish to request an EHC needs assessment yourself, please refer to the model letter on the IPSEA website: www.ipsea.org.uk/model-letters

Deciding whether to conduct an EHC needs assessment

Once your local authority identified that your child has SEN or receives a request for an assessment, they have to up to six weeks to decide whether to carry one out. During that time, they will ask you and others—such as your child’s school or other setting— for information to help them make that decision. You may wish to gather together all the reports and letters from your child’s school or other setting, doctors’ and any other assessments that have been produced about your child. You may also want to write about your child’s needs and how long they have had them.

If your local authority decides not to carry out an assessment, they need to let you know their decision within six weeks of receiving a request for an assessment. Your local authority is expected to help you find other ways that your child can be supported in their school or other setting.

Conducting an EHC needs assessment

Local Authority need to make sure that you and your child are fully involved in the EHC needs assessment. They need to provide you with impartial information, advice and support to help you understand the process and make sure you are properly involved in decisions that affect your child.

What you can do if you disagree with your local authority’s decisions

If you disagree with your local authority’s decision on:

• Not proceeding with and EHC needs assessment

• Nor producing an EHC plan, or

• The special educational support that is included in the EHC plan

You have the right to challenge it. Your local authority will tell you when and how you can challenge their decisions in their letter. There are a number of things you can do which are outlined in the ‘Challenging or disagreeing with decisions’ sections of the Department for Education’s guide for parents and carers. Also, your local information, advice and support service will be able to help you.

See www.gov.uk/appeal-ehc-plan-decision

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Specialist Educational Provision in Wiltshire

Nurseries, Schools and Colleges

In Wiltshire, as in most counties, a significant amount of the support and support and help that is available is through Nurseries, Children’s Centres, Schools and Colleges.

In 2014 the Children and Families Bill meant that all schools have to put on their website the support that they offer to children with Special Educational Needs including ASC. You can go on to any schools website to find this. All schools however will have broad training in meeting the needs of children/ young people with ASC. They also have funding and access to a range of support services which help them gain extra skills in meeting the needs of children with ASC. The SENco will organise a bespoke curriculum that can happen in the classroom with other children. This may involve special sessions, classes or approaches to support particular needs linked to ASC to ensure that as many children and young people as possible can be educated in mainstream settings.

In Wiltshire we also have a number of Resource Bases (for primary age children), Enhanced Learning Provisions (for Secondary age children) and Special Schools which are for children who have an Education Health and Social Care Plan (EHCP, My Plan). This means that if your assessment shows that you need an EHCP and your needs cannot be best met in a mainstream Nursery, Children’s Centre, School or College you can be considered for a place in a Resource Base / Enhanced Learning Provision or Special School

Resource Bases

There are resource bases located throughout Wiltshire offering an enhanced education for children and young people with communication and interaction difficulties including needs related to ASC and complex SEND which can include ASC. These Resource Bases are part of mainstream schools and offer a number of places to children and young people in the local area.

Teachers and support staff in these schools will have extra training, qualifications and experience in working with children and young people with ASC. Children will have opportunities to spend significant time in special classes as well as joining their peers in mainstream classes.

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Enhanced Learning Provision

Enhanced learning provision is available in all Wiltshire’s Secondary Schools. They offer a similar provision to Resource Bases for this older age group. Some young people can access this provision with a My Support Plan rather than an EHCP My Plan. The assessment process will determine if this is a good approach for your young person’s education. Wiltshire also have Colleges which can support ASC needs in a similar way to Enhanced Learning Provision. When you are in year 11 your annual review will enable you to think through what opportunities are available to you and how you can access further education and transition into your adult life. If you have only recently had a diagnosis of ASC in years 10,11 or further on you can still access this support through the assessment processes.

Post 16 Education

All young people are now expected to be involved in education up to the age of 18. Through the assessment process you can also access support and further education up to the age of 25 through services linked with children and young people. However once you are over 18 you can also start to access support from adult services. There is no longer a solid cut off point between and children and adult provision so that you can have the right support as you transition into your adult life. As you get older you can choose to have a stronger focus on independent living skills and provision that can equip you for work. Please look at the Preparing for Adulthood section of the local offer for more information.

Special Schools

Special schools offer education to children with ASC when it is clear that the child or young person needs a full time, comprehensive, long term specialist education. There is:

• Exeter House, Salisbury which is a 2 site school for 4 19 year olds.

• Silverwood School, which is a 4 19 year olds co-educational special school with 3 campuses at Chippenham, Rowde and Trowbridge.

• Springfields Academy, Calne. Autism only

• Salisbury Academy for Inspirational Learning. A free school for autism and SEMH.

If you live very close to the county border or your needs can not be met in one of the provisions described above you can also consider schools in other counties. Also, a new free SEND school in Salisbury is being built at this moment catering for 5 19 year olds for 150 pupils.

If you go on the Local Offer site (https://localoffer.wiltshire.gov.uk) you can find further information about the assessment process, My Plan and the way Nurseries, Children’s Centres, Schools and Colleges can offer support and help. There is also a list of which schools have Resource Bases and the Special Schools in Wiltshire.

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Support in Wiltshire for Autism: School Strategies or ‘SWASS’

Helping your child at school and at home

An extremely helpful Autism-specific resource has been produced by Wiltshire Council as a tool to offer schools strategies for supporting your child/young person in school. Although intended to be a school resources, many, if not most of the strategies can be used or adapted for home life as well.

It explains how ASC can affect the children/young person’s learning, communication, social interaction with others, sensory sensitivities, difficulties with change, the effect of environment, obsessions, rituals and likely hot-spot situations during the day.

It offers a wide range of strategies to help with these, guided by pictures and supported with links to websites with downloadable materials.

The guide states the importance of working closely with parents/carers in order to ensure consistency of approach.

This resource shas been sent to all schools in Wiltshire, and your school’s SENCO should know about it, and have a copy. It can be helpful to refer to it when discussing your child / young person’s My Support Plan or My Plan and their Individual Education Plan and Reviews. The guide is available at: https://rightchoice.wiltshire.gov.uk/ page/13393 then scroll down until you get to the SWASS download (pdf)

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Accessible Uniforms

The good school guide has a section on where parents/carers can find accessible uniforms for their child/young person who has sensory issues and/or physical disabilities, such as incontinence or dexterity difficulties. Their advice can be found at www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/special-educational-needs/help-and-advice/clothing-forspecial-needs.

Lots of mainstream shops, such as Asda and Marks and Spencers, have now become more aware and produce their own line of products.

Periods: This is a challenging time for many autistic teenagers and Robyn Steward has written a book published by Jessica Kingsley called 'the autism friendly guide to periods'. Many autistic teenagers dislike the feel of sanitary pads and hate seeing blood which rule out menstrual cups and disposable pad. Because of this, period pants have become popular with WUKA and Modibodi manufacturing seamless varieties for people with sensory difficulties. Lots of mainstream shops such as Marks and Spencers and Superdrug also sell them in their stores.

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Home Education

As stated by the Education Act, parents are responsible for their children’s education, ‘either by regular attendance at school or otherwise’. Education is compulsory, but schooling is not. Many parents choose to home school their children.

For further information about this please refer to the following:

Government Advice:

Wiltshire Council:

Education Otherwise:

Home Education Futures:

www.gov.uk/home-education

www.wiltshire.gov.uk/article/2153/Homeeducation

www.educationotherwise.org

www.homeeducationfutures.co.uk

Facebook Groups:

Salisbury Home Educators

Home Education Wiltshire

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Wiltshire Autism Partnership

What it does:

The Wiltshire Autism Partnership holds regular meetings face to face or via zoom to discuss matters that effect people with Autism in Wiltshire.

You can feedback verbally in person or using the mic or you can use the message chat or email. There is no obligation to contribute, and you can have your camera off if you prefer.

How to Access:

Email:

Information of upcoming meetings can be found via the WPCC information bulletins. Or you can email: autismpartnership@wiltshire.gov.uk. This is open to Autistic people over the age of 18 years old and parent carers. The meeting with have professional from local services such as WSUN, WCIL, WPCC, CAMHS and Wiltshire Council.

autismpartnership@wiltshire.gov.uk

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Wiltshire

Area covered

Professionals– who they are and what they do

Depending on your child or young person’s needs, there is a list of professionals (in alphabetical order) you may have contact with.

CAMHS Workers

Art Therapist—A Therapist who uses a form of psychotherapy using art media as its primary mode of communication.

Care Co-ordinator - The person who is the organiser of your care and often a main point of contact for the young person and their family / carers

Clinical Psychologist Helps people with the way they behave and the way they feel and think about things.

Family Therapist A therapist who helps families to make changes by working with all parts of the family, listening to different perspectives.

Psychiatrist a Doctor with specialist training in child and adolescent mental health. They are also trained in prescribing medications used in CAMHS. The Consultant has overall medical responsibility.

Psychotherapist A professional who has specialist training in psychoanalytical approaches to the treatment of mental health problems in young people and families.

Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMN) - a Nurse with specialist knowledge of mental health, who works directly with the young person and their families / carers

Senior Mental Health Practitioner A Social Workers, RMN or OT who may work with you individually.

Community Paediatrician

Specialist children’s doctor who have a particular expertise in looking after children with long term health problems which may have an impact on other areas of their life.

Continence Nurse

A Continence Nurse runs clinics throughout Wiltshire and manages the assessment for, and supply of, incontinence products. The Continence Nurse also trains and works closely with other professionals in the community to help young people achieve some degree of continence. This training is intended to equip community health professionals, like school nurses or health visitors, to carry out basic assessments and monitor need.

Early Years Inclusion Officer

Offers advice and support around early help and identification and then helps coordinate appropriate support for the child and family.

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Educational Psychologist

Tackle challenges such as learning difficulties, social and emotional problems, issues around disability as well as more complex developmental disorders in children and young people.

Educational Welfare Officer (Inclusion Officer)

They work closely with schools and families to ensure that every school age child is receiving a suitable, full time education by encouraging regular attendance at school (or ensuring they’re being home educated).

School Based Assistants

Sometimes known as Teaching Assistants who work alongside school /nursery teachers helping pupils get the most out of their learning by supporting individuals or groups within the education setting.

SEND Lead Workers

When a child or young person has significant special educational needs and disabilities the SEND Lead Worker can support and advise the family. They will act as the single point of contact for the child / family and keep practitioners focused on the child/ family, co-ordinate actions agreed by the practitioners and the family and avoid potential duplication.

Social Worker

Provides advice and support to individuals and their families, assisting them to live more successfully within their local communities by helping them find solutions to their support needs. Works in both mental health provision as well as Autism / learning difficulties and safe guarding.

Special Educational Needs Coordinator

Often referred to as ‘SENCO’, they are responsible for the day to day implementation of the school’s special educational needs policy. The SENCO will co-ordinate additional support for pupils with SEND (special educational needs) and liaise with parents, teachers and other professionals involved with the child.

Speech and Language Therapist

Often referred to as ‘SLT or SALT’. Provide treatment, support and care for children and adults who have difficulties with communication or with eating, drinking and swallowing (excluding sensory and behavioural).

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Wiltshire Libraries

There are 31 libraries and 5 mobile library units across Wiltshire. They hold a good stock of books relating to autism which can be searched online at: www.wiltshire.gov.uk/libraries

If you are looking for a specific book it is possible to have a copy ordered from another public library anywhere in the country. There is a small charge for this. Also, if the book you want is not available to borrow, provided it was published not more than a year previously and is reasonably priced, you can request that a copy be purchased to go onto the shelves. A central panel decides which books will be bought.

The leading Autism publish is Jessica Kingsley publishers, they produce a booklet twice a year listing new titles, older titles, and most popular titles. You can join their mailing list by going online to their website.

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www.jkp.com Email: hello@jkp.com Telephone 0207 833 2307

Website

Further Websites

Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities

Provides information for people with learning disabilitieswww.learningdisabilities.org.uk

Patient.co.uk

Website offering evidence based information and resources on a wide range of medical and health topics to patients and professionals. Search Autism for a comprehensive section containing information and links to further websites. - www.patient.co.uk

NHS

Information on all health matters and how to get help. Search Autism for information. www.nhs.uk/conditions/autism/

Autistic Eye

Website offering people on the Autistic Spectrum to sell their artwork and share their creativity in a positive way. www.autisticeye.co.uk

The Autism Directory

A useful directory of national information, resources and services, with some local organisations listed as well. The site also has an online community sharing information and experiences. www.theautismdirectory.com

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Auticon

Area covered

What it does:

Website:

London and Edinburgh in the UK but has headquarters worldwide such as New Zealand and Germany

A social innovation company that employs IT specialists who are Autistic. They are supported by job coaches and project managers and are involved in IT projects for major business’ such as KMPG, GlaxoSmithKline, Experian and Channel 4.. It also helps create a neurodiverse environment in client companies through education.

www.auticon.com

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What it does: Online printable resources for communication cards and for making visual timetables often used by teachers. There is a “try for free” membership which will give you access to printable taster packs such as SEND resource packs. There is an option to have a paid membership that will allow you to print a larger selection of cards

Website: www.twinkl.co.uk

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Nationwide

Twinkl Area covered

Wrong Planet

Area covered Worldwide

What it does: Wrong Planets is a Autism online web community designed for individuals (and parents / professionals of those). We provide discussion forums, where members communicate with each other, and article section, with exclusive articles and how-to-guides and a blogging feature.

Areas covered: LGBT+, dating, autism research, and gaming to name a few.

Website: www.wrongplanet.net

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Autism Alert Card

Area covered

How to access:

What it does:

Website:

Nationally recognised

They can be bought online from the National Autistic Society shop for 50p on their website: www.autism.org.uk/shop/products/merchandise/alertcard or downloaded for free and then you print it out at home: www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/resources/ downloads/i-am-autistic

By showing it, you can let people know that you are autistic and that you might need some extra time or help in certain situations. The NAS also do “my child is autistic” and “this person is autistic” cards. They are credit card sized so can be carried easily in a purse / wallet.

www.autism.org.uk

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Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

Who can refer:

Carers are given a card with a 24/7 contact number and a unique PIN number that emergency services can access if the carer is involved in an accident or unexpectantly becomes unwell. The emergency services can then contact the service to arrange alternative care for the cared for person. A carers emergency card also gives the carer the opportunity to outline their preferences for alternative care.

Anyone who is a carer. You can complete the form online on the Your Care Your Support website: https:// adultslas.wiltshire.gov.uk/web/portal/pages/referrals/ acreferral Or

Carers Support: www.carersupportwiltshire.co.uk/ information-hub/carers-emergency-card

You can also fill out a paper form by contacting Carer Support Wiltshire on 0800 665 068 and request a paper copy of the Carers Emergency Card form to be sent to you, filling it in and sending it back to the address provided.

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’s

Carer

Card

Sunflower Lanyard

Area covered

What it does:

Website:

Nationwide although some counties are beginning to adopt the scheme.

Initially started at Gatwick airport, this nationwide scheme allows people with hidden disabilities, such as autism, to discretely make known that they may require assistance from staff, colleagues and health professionals when in shops, airports, hospitals etc. They can be obtained for free from places like Sainsbury’s Tesco’s, Morrisons, Marks and Spencers as well as some airports and train stations. Some motorways service stations even provide sunflower car stickers to put on your car to alert emergency services that someone in the car may need additional support. They can also be obtained online at www.hiddendisabilitiesstore.com but there is a cost involved.

www.hiddendisabilitiesstore.com

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What it does:

A scheme that provides a safe environment for people that may require some additional support when out and about in the community. Local shops, businesses and organisations will display an A5 size round safe place sticker in their window to alert that they are a ‘safe place’. This shows that people are welcome to come in if they need help due to anxiety, fear and distress. When a person uses a safe place they will be listened to, reassured, supported and offered time and a safe place to wait. Staff members can contact someone to come and help support the distressed person such as a friend or relative.

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Safe Places

Nationwide

Area covered

Private Mental Health Support

The UK Council for Psychotherapy UKCP www.psychotherapy.org.uk

The British Psychological Society BPs www.bps.org.uk

The National Counselling Society NCS www.nationalcounsellingsociety.org

British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy BACP www.bacp.co.uk/

Unfortunately due to the growing demands on the NHS mental health services, there are often long waiting lists for treatment. Many parent/carers may be asked to consider looking at private care. Often word of mouth, from other people who have used private care in the past, is a good way of finding a therapist. WPCC are unable to provide recommendation for private practitioners but the above societies provide a list of qualified practitioners that have to practice safely and ethically and abide by a robust code of practice.

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Entertainment / Shopping

Theatre

Relaxed Performances Bristol Hippodrome. From panto to The Lion King, relaxed performances offer a performance where the lights are not dimmed, you’re able to move around the auditorium, there are chill out zones and staff trained to help. Keep an eye out on the WPCC newsletter for any performances coming up or visit the theatre website:

Cinema

Applying for a CEA card allows a carer to go in with an autistic child over 5 years old or young person for free in order to support. You can apply online and at present the card costs £6 per year. You need to be receiving Personal Independent Payments (PIP), DLA, Attendance Allowance or be registered blind. Apply on the website:www.ceacard.co.uk. You can also find autism friendly screenings at www.dimensions-uk.org/getinvolved/campaigns/autism-friendly-cinema-screenings

Museums

Local museums such as Salisbury provide plans of the museum to help you plan your day and prepare your child / young person. Larger museums, such as The Natural History Museum in London do special sessions for children and young people with SEND. Keep an eye out on the WPCC weekly newsletter or visit their websites for details. American Museum, Bath, offers noise cancelling headphone on request. Bowood house offers half price admissions.

Theme Parks

Many theme parks will do free carers tickets as long as proof of disability is shown. Some also allow for special access passes which allows the young person / child to avoid long queues if this is something they struggle with. It is always a good idea to check beforehand what is available with the park.

Supermarkets

Many supermarkets have quiet hour to help customers with hidden disabilities do their shopping. Lights will be dimmed, music played at a quieter level and footfall reduced.

Asda Monday Thursday, 2pm 3pm

Tesco Wednesday and Saturday, 9am 10am

Morrisons— Saturday, 9am 10am. Sunday, 10am 11am

Banks and Building Societies

Many banks and building societies offer quiet hours and quiet spaces to help those with SEND.

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Disabled Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independent Payments (PIP)

For information on benefits that might be available for your young person, see the NAS website: www.autism.org.uk/benefits

DLA

This is not a means tested benefit so your income, savings etc will not matter. DLA for children may help with the extra costs of looking after a child who:

• Is under 16

• Has difficulties walking or needs much more looking after than a child of the same age who does not have a disability

For more information and how to apply go to: www.gov.uk/dla-disability-livingallowance-benefit

PIP

If you have DLA this will be moved onto PIP at the age of 16. Any young person who is applying for benefits for the first time at the age of 16 and above will need to apply for a PIP. PIP can help with extra living costs if the young person has:

• A long term physical or mental health condition or disability

• Difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition

You can get PIP even if the young person is working, having savings or are getting most other benefits.

There are two parts of PIP:

• A daily living part if the young person needs help with every day tasks

• A mobility part—if the young person needs help with getting around. This can include needing help to access public transport due to anxiety.

For more information and how to apply go to: www.gov.uk/pip

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Carers Allowance

This is a payment of £69.70 a week if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week and they get:

• PIP daily living component

• DLA the middle or highest care rates

• Child Disability payment—the middle or highest care rate

• Adult Disability Payment daily living component at the standard or enhanced rate

• You do not have to be related to the person you care for.

• You do not get paid more if you care for more than one person

• If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carers allowance

Carers allowance can effect other benefits. There is a strict eligibility criteria that can be found on the government website, including how to apply online at: www.gov.uk/ carers-allowance

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Nimbus Disability—Access Card

What it does:

Referral:

The Access Card is basically an ID card for disabled people that indicates what their legal rights might be and gives businesses an indication of the support they need to provide.

Proof of Access Requirements

Many organisations ask for proof of disability/access requirements. The Access Card was designed to be a onestop-shop for assessing need and communicating this across to multiple providers giving consistency for customers and organisations.

An Access Card is only issued to disabled people who are able to provide a suitable degree of supporting information. This information includes things such as doctors reports, entitlement to disability-related benefits or any other type of Supporting information.

In the course of submitting an application for an Access Card, the symbols are assigned which indicates the type of reasonable adjustment a person may need in accessing the service.

You can apply for an access card by completing the online application card: www.nimbusdisability.com/quality-mark/ the-access-card/

Website: www.nimbusdisability.com/

Telephone: 0330 808 5108

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Nationwide

Area covered

Annual Learning Disability Health Checks

Area covered Nationwide

What it does:

Referral:

It is well researched that people with learning disabilities often have poorer physical and mental health than the general population. Anyone over the age of 14 years old and on the learning disability register is encouraged to have an annual health check with their GP. The health check can help people to stay well and will pick up any problems early on and is performed by a nurse of a doctor.

You should be invited by the GP surgery if you are on the learning disability register. If you don’t hear from them you can ring the surgery

Website: This tells you everything you need to know about Health Checks and what happens:

www.nhs.uk/conditions/learning-disabilities/annual-health -checks/

Autisica is at present developing a health check for people with autism in the hope that it will be offered in the future by the NHS as part of the Long Term Plan.

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Requesting an EHC needs assessment: Model letter 1

All of the parts of this letter in bold will need to be changed or deleted so that they are relevant to your situation.

[Your address and contact details]

Director of Children’s Services [or other title if different]

[Name of local authority]

[Address of local authority]

[If you know the email address of the Director also send by email and add here:]

And by email to: [insert email address]

[Date]

For the attention of [insert name of the Director of Children’s Services]

Dear [Sir or Madam],

[Child or young person’s name], DoB [date of birth]: Request for EHC needs assessment

I am writing [as the parent of the above child / on behalf of the above young person] to request an assessment of their Education, Health and Social Care needs under section 36(1) of the Children and Families Act 2014.

[Child / young person’s name] currently attends [name of school/college / is out of school/college]

I understand that the test that the LA must apply in considering this request is contained in section 36(8) of the Children and Families Act 2014 and has two parts.

Part one of the test is that the child or young person has or may have special educational needs.

[Delete the paragraphs below which are not applicable:]

[Child / young person’s name] has already been identified as having special educational needs by [name of school / college]. They identified them as:

[List the SEN already identified by school/college and provide any supporting evidence – for example reports from school/college or professionals. You can also add any other needs that you think your child has which have not yet been identified by your school/college.]

[Or:]

I feel that [child / young person’s name] has or may have special educational needs because:

[List the reasons why you feel your child has SEN and any evidence you have to support what you are saying – for example school reports, evidence of exclusions, and letters from any medical or other experts.]

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Part two of the test is that it may be necessary for special educational provision to be made for the child/young person through the issuing of an EHC plan.

My reasons for believing that [child / young person’s name] may need an EHC plan are:

[List any reasons you have which show why you think that an EHC plan may be needed to support the child or young person in education or training. If you can, it would be helpful to provide evidence that the school may not be be able to provide the support the child or young person needs out of their own resources. Examples include a need for specialist teaching, individual support beyond what the school can provide, therapies from external specialists, or specialist equipment. Evidence could include reports from professionals or the school/college recommending particular support, and/or evidence that the child or young person is not making progress despite the school or college putting interventions in place.]

The two-part test outlined above is the only test to be applied under the law. I understand that it would be unlawful for a local authority to apply a higher threshold for accessing an EHC needs assessment. Furthermore, this legal test is different to that which must be applied in the decision about whether or not to issue an EHC plan. [I / We] believe that the local authority should carry out an EHC needs assessment to determine the full extent of [child / young person’s name]'s needs.

I understand that you are required by law to reply to this request within six weeks, and that if you refuse [I / young person’s name] will be able to appeal to the First-tier Tribunal (Special Educational Needs and Disability).

Yours faithfully,

[Your name]

[Or if on behalf of a young person:]

[Your name] on behalf of [name of young person]

208 Resources

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

ACE -Adverse Childhood Experiences

ADD - Attention Deficit Disorder

ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

AEN - Additional Educational Needs

AHT - Assistant Headteacher

ALS - Additional Literacy Support

AMHP - Approved Mental Health Professional

AS - Asperger Syndrome

ASC - Autism Spectrum Condition

ASD - Autism Spectrum Disorder

ASQ - Ages and Stages Questionnaire (a set of questions about children's development)

B

BESD - Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties

BEST - Behaviour and Education Support Team

BIP - Behaviour Improvement Programme

BST - Behaviour Support Team

CAF - Common Assess Framework

CAL - Computer-Assisted Learning

CAMHS - Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services

CAN - Children with Additional Needs

CHYPS - Child and Young People's Services

CIC - Child in Care

CIN - Child In Need

CP - Child Protection

209

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

CPI - Child Protection Issue

CPP - Child Protection Plan

CPR - Child Protection Register

CNS - Clinical Nurse Specialist

CoP - Code of Practice

CLLD - Communication, Language and Literacy Development

CMHN - Community Mental Health Nurse

CMHT - Community Mental Health Team

CPN - Community Psychiatric Nurse

CYP - Children and Young People

CYPS - Children and Young People Services

DDA - Disability Discrimination Act

DfE - Department for Education

DHT - Deputy Headteacher

DOL - Deprivation of Liberty

EAL - English as an Additional Language

EBSA - Emotional Based School Avoidance

EHCP - Education Health Care Plan

EOTAS - Education other than at School

EP - Educational psychologist

EYFS - Early Years Foundation Stage

EWO - Educational Welfare Officer

210

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

FAS - Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

FASD - Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

FE - Further Education

FSM - Free School Meals

GLD - Global Learning Delay

HCA - Health Care Assistant

HE - Higher Education

HI - Hearing Impaired

HLTA - Higher Level Teaching Assistant

HOD - Head of Department

HOY - Head of Year

HT - Headteacher

ICDS - Integrated Child Development Services

IEP - Individual Education Plan

IMCA - Independent Mental Capacity Advocate

IRP - Independent Review Panel

KS - Key Stage

211

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

LAC - Looked After Child

LDD - Learning Difficulties and Disabilities

LO - Local Offer

LSA - Learning Support Assistant

LSCB - Local Safeguarding Children Board

MASH - Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub

MCA - Mental Capacity Act

MLD - Moderate Learning Difficulty

MLT - Middle Leadership Team

MSI - Multi - Sensory Impairment

NAI - Non-Accidental Injury

NEET - Not in Education, Employment or Training

NICE - National Institute for Health and Care Excellence

ODD - Oppositional Defiant Disorder

OT - Occupational Therapist

PD - Physical Disability

PDA - Pathological Demand Avoidance

PEP - Personal Educational Plan

PLP - Personal Learning Plan

PMLD - Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties

PP - Pupil Premium

212

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

PRS - Pupil Referral Service

PRU - Pupil Referral Unit

PSA - Parent Support Adviser

PSHE - Personal, Social and Health Education

PSP - Pastoral Support Programme/Plan

RAD - Reactive Attachment Disorder

RCCO - Residential Child Care Officer

RM - Residential Manager (Children's homes)

RN - Registered Nurse

RNLD - Registered Nurse Learning Disability

RSS - Residential Special School

SALT - Speech and Language Therapy

SaLT - Speech and Language Therapist

SDQ - Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire

SEAL - Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning

SEBS - Social Environmental Behaviour Skills

SEMH - Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties

SEN - Special Educational Needs

SEND - Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

SENCo - Special Educational Needs Coordinator

SLCN - Speech, Language and Communication Needs

SLD - Severe Learning Difficulty

SLIC - Speech Language Interaction Communication

SLT - School Leadership Team

SM - Selective Mutism

213

Special Educational Needs and Disability

(SEND) Acronyms and Abbreviations

SpLD - Specific Learning Difficulty e.g Dyslexia

SpR - Specialist Registrar (Doctor)

SPD - Sensory Processing Disorder

TA - Teaching Assistant

TAC - Team Around Child

TAF - Team Around the Family (When CAF is about the whole family)

VI - Visually Impaired

YJB - Youth Justice Board

YOT - Youth Offending Team

214