News

Sheffield Adult Autism Support Hub tell us:

We are proud to announce that our service will be going live from Monday 20th November, and that anybody who would like to access our support can contact the service via email or phone to book an appointment or to book on a group session. We are still building our staff team so the capacity for the service might be lower than usual for the first couple of weeks.  However, appointments and group sessions will still continue on every day the service is open.

We are in the process of creating an online booking system which was discussed in co-production and would be an ideal way to book an appointment. Therefore, this will be updated as soon as we can, but for now an email or a phone call to the service will be the way in which people can book in to see a member of our staff team.

The service is open on the following days and times:

Please note you must contact the service prior to accessing support from the service so that an appointment or a space on the group session can be booked for you.

More information can be found our website, and more information will be updated in due course.
Adult Autism Support Hub website:  https://www.mhm.org.uk/adult-autism-support-hub

Address: MHM Building, 44 Bank Street, Sheffield, S1 2DS (Monday & Wednesday only)*
Who can access this service: Anyone 16+ can access this service
Referral criteria: People can self-refer or be referred from a professional source
Support available: One to One and Group support via phone calls, face to face appointments, online video consultation and email.
Get in touch: 07811 589 909 or email: adultautismsupporthub.mhm@nhs.net

Website: https://www.mhm.org.uk/adult-autism-support-hub

Service opening times: Sunday: 17:00 – 20:30, Monday: 10:00 – 14:00, Tuesday 17:30 – 20:30 and Wednesday 10:00 – 14:00

*Please note

– we only operate on a face to face basis on Mondays and Wednesdays at the moment;

– this is a new service specifically for adult autism and separate from the Sheffield mental health support hub also provided by MHM.

 

Welcome all – members old and new – and here is a round-up of information and news for NOVEMBER.

We are also focussing on children and young people for this month including information about support for ADHD which I hope which we hope you will find useful and of interest.

Latest News

Sheffield Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) News

For up-to-date information about all things SEND – for parents, carers, professionals, and everyone interested in SEND please click on the link below for the round of information:

SEND News in Sheffield (govdelivery.com)

Sheffield ADHD Project
We support the families of children and young people diagnosed with ADHD by raising knowledge and awareness of the disorder, providing strategies for managing the symptoms associated with it and promoting the individuality and potential of those affected. Families must live in Sheffield to access our service.

We welcome referrals from parents of children and young people diagnosed with ADHD. For further information or to make a referral please contact: adhd.sheffield@family-action.org.uk

ADHD Cafe drop-in sessions (children and young people)
These are informal drop-in sessions. Have a coffee, chat with other parents and meet staff from Sheffield Family Hubs, Family Action, Ryegate, Parenting and other services. No diagnosis required. There are sessions running throughout the next couple of months at various venues in Sheffield. For any queries, contact Sheffield Family Hubs on 0114 273 5665.

ADHD information sessions | Sheffield Parent Carer Forum

Sheffield Parent Carer Forum Information sessions
Booking essential at: Events | Sheffield Parent Carer Forum

Introduction to autism

WHEN: 12.30 till 2.30pm Tuesday 14 November
Adult: free

WHERE: Primrose Family Centre,
45 Creswick Street,
Sheffield,
S6 2TN

Autism and anxiety

WHEN: 12:30pm – 2:00pm Thursday 23 November

Adult: Free

WHERE: First Start Family Hub,
441 Firth Park Rd,
Sheffield ,
S5 6HH

Introduction to demand avoidant behaviour

WHEN: 10:15am – 12:45pm Monday 20 November
Adult: free

WHERE: St Mary’s Church and Community Centre,
Bramall Lane,
Sheffield,
S2 4QZ

For full information about all the information sessions on offer please click on the link above.

Free Mental Health First Aid training for volunteers

VAS are coordinating a programme of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for staff and volunteers working in Sheffield’s VCS, funded by NHS Health Education England. Through this programme places to attend certified training are fully funded for Sheffield’s VCS staff and volunteers. This programme aims to upskill staff and volunteers to feel better equipped to support people with mental health conditions in the community, as well as supporting the growth of the VCS workforce.

The courses are 14 hours long, which is either two days back to back (for the in-person courses) or 4-half days (online courses) and folk need to attend the full course to get the certificate. There are both Adult and Young People courses available.

If you or your colleagues are interested please have a look at this webpage for details and information on how to book.

Get involved – adults

· Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 15 November everyone welcome – new members too! This is a Sheffield Autistic Society group and meets on the second Wednesday of the month,

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive.
Future dates: 13 December

Peer to peer support (Zoom)

These online only sessions are facilitated by Helen Purdie for the Sheffield Autistic Society. They will be an opportunity for individuals to check-in with themselves and to talk about their lived autistic experience with another autistic adult who is experienced in offering individual and group support in this way.

Sessions are free of charge and are for one hour – please contact helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

· Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health. Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub, a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

· WAND – Autistic Women’s Network

WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield. If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk and she can give you more information and sign you up.

ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more. The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers.

For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans. They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with our staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call.

The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. For more information see leaflet: Sheffield Support Hub

Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB. Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim. Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information.

Adult Autism Support Hub to open later this year

The aim of the new service is to develop and deliver drop-in provision offering support to autistic people aged 16 and above, and their (informal) carers and families. People will be provided with information, advice and opportunities to connect with community groups and support in a welcoming and safe environment. If there are any questions please contact the service directly using the contact details below:

Adult Autism Support Hub, Mobile Number: 07811 589909

Email: adultautismsupporthub.mhm@nhs.net
Website: Mental Health Matters www.mhm.org.uk

 

Referred for a diagnostic assessment at SAANS? – latest waiting times

Please see the link below for information on the waiting times for an adult autism or adult ADHD assessment at the Sheffield Adult Autism and Neurodevelopmental Service (SAANS) https://www.shsc.nhs.uk/services/sheffield-adult-autism-and-neurodevelopmental-service-saans

If you think you would benefit from a referral to this service you need to speak to your GP or health professional who is supporting you. If they agree that an assessment would be appropriate they need to complete a referral form.

Looking for help with finding a job or employment?

The Autism Centre for Supported Employment offers skilled and experienced guidance for individuals with autism to find placements (unpaid) and paid employment within Meadowhall Centre, Sheffield City Centre and beyond.

The aims are:
To find paid work and work experience placements for working aged adults who are on the autistic spectrum.
Give specialist support to our clients as well as advise and support their employer so that each individual gets the best out of the experience.
Break down barriers so people who have autism will be recognised for who they are as individuals. https://ac4se.org/

Autism Plus

Autism Plus has several programmes to assist autistic people with employment including:

Preparing for Work: Employment support for young adults with SEND (18 to 24)
Access to Work: Fully funded support to individuals in employment, including those in apprenticeships and internships.
One Off Sessions: Sessions aimed at individuals who may need a little extra guidance and support every now and then.
See this link for more information https://autismplus.co.uk/employment-support/individual-support

Local Supported Employment (LSE)

Local Supported Employment (LSE) helps individuals with autism into work. LSE is new programme that is already making a huge difference to individuals with learning disabilities and autism, who are looking for paid employment. The programme is part of Opportunity Sheffield, the employment and skills service at Sheffield City Council.

Not only do our LSE Job Coaches help individuals overcome barriers to employment, but they also support them throughout their journey once they have found permanent employment.

Local Supported Employment helps individuals with autism into work

 

Need some In Work Support?

Spectrum-e

Spectrum-e offer disability specialist ‘in-work’ support to individuals with Autism, Asperger Syndrome, learning disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD and ADD, physical disabilities and long term health conditions.
https://www.spectrum-e.co.uk/

Sheffield Occupational Health Advisory Service SOHAS

SOHAS The first step to getting one to one support and advice when your health is impacted by your working environment. The service we provide is free and confidential and is accessible for anyone who lives or works in Sheffield who have any type of health issue. We give advice either face to face or by Teams, Zoom, WhatsApp or over the telephone.
https://www.sohas.co.uk/

The Peer Support Service for parents/carers from Sheffield Parent Carer Forum

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

 

Family Support Groups

Autism Hope Sheffield

We are a support group for parents and family members of children of all ages, with Autism Spectrum Conditions based in north Sheffield. We meet weekly to offer support, understanding, advice and friendship to each other (during term time). We have in person meetings with a cuppa, cake and chat and also zoom meetings if you can’t make it in person. We have regular guest speakers from organisations that can help and signpost to other services.

Contact Details: Email Address: autismhopesheffield@gmail.com
Facebook: Autism Hope Sheffield
Tel: 07968 984179
Web: https://www.autismhopesheffield.co.uk/

ACCT Sheffield

We run a wide range of in-person and online activity groups for autistic children and young people, parent-carers and whole family activities. We run several sessions each week, including multi-activity groups and specialist sessions focused on particular activities that children and young people attending ACCT has asked us to run.

Our regular activities currently include:

Acctivate – multi-activity in-person group for autistic 5-12 year-olds held on Saturday mornings (9.45am-12.15pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.
Teenage Club – in-person group for autistic teenagers aged up to 18, held on Wednesday evenings (7-9pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

ACCT Academy Football Coaching – Friday evenings (6 -7pm) at Goals on Norfolk Park Road. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Minecraft Club (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run through a private server. For any age, every Saturday morning. ACCT has guest logins available for participants who don’t have their own. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Dungeons and Dragons (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run over Zoom. For teenagers and young adults. Every Monday evening or Saturday afternoon. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Parent-Carer Meetings – ACCT runs fortnightly meetings, on Tuesday evenings, via Zoom, for peer support, information sharing and discussion of topics of interest and importance to parent-carers of autistic children and young people. Book a place by contacting ACCT. We also run workshops and training for parent-carers.

Places at Acctivate and Teenage Club are available through referral by contacting Sheffield City Council. All other activities are available directly from ACCT. Join ACCT as a member (it’s free), then contact us to book a place. More information about referrals and joining ACCT available here https://acctsheffield.org.uk/about/

Sparkle Sheffield

Sparkle Sheffield is a local registered charity that supports children and young people from birth to 25 with Autism Spectrum Conditions and other social communication difficulties. Founded and run by parents who have autistic children, we understand what life is like and how we can work together to improve our children’s and our family’s life. Sparkle Sheffield exists to support families with autistic children meet the challenges they face, feel less isolated, less frightened and more empowered. Autism affects individuals and their families in a wide variety of ways and the approach we use recognises these individualities.

Sparkle Sheffield aim to support and help individuals and families by providing:

• Opportunities for children and families to create a support network with others in similar situations – we regularly organise online and in-person events where children and families can meet others without fear of judgment.

• Providing support for autistic individuals: social groups, activities and forming friendships – we host regular events such as Ninja Warrior, swimming, cinema trips and other fun activities.

• Providing a circle of support for individuals to feel they belong and fit in, have friends and develop the strategies and skills they need to succeed in life.

Most importantly – we have lots of fun in the process! https://sparklesheffield.co.uk/

 

SSENDIAS information sessions

Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions. These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND. The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

– What is an EHC Needs Assessment
– SEN Support in Schools
– Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk

 

Support for Carers

Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:

Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.

Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.

Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.

Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.

Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.

Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.

Emergency Planning: We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.

Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.

Time for a Break Grant: Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.

Information and resources: Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.

Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’ provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.
Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at: https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

 

Working in partnership for better services

What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

From next year the APB will change structure to be more streamlined and to ensure a good representation across all parties. It will have several working groups that will feed into the APB meetings which will then meet every two months.

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership/

Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers. For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

Best wishes – Sheffield Autistic Society

 

 

 

 

Welcome all – members old and new – and here is a round-up of information and news for OCTOBER.

We are also focussing on employment for this month which I hope which we hope you will find useful and of interest.

Latest News

Sheffield Carers Roadshow

We’re delighted to announce the launch of the Sheffield Carers Roadshow on Thursday 5 October. Sheffield Carers Centre will be partnering with Sheffield Young Carers, South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board and Sheffield City Council, plus the national carers charity Carers UK to raise awareness of the support available for carers in the city. We’ll also be joined by Carers Trust and 30 other local organisations on the day.

See attached flyer for full information

Looking for help with finding a job?

Hidden Disability Job Fair
Discover employment and training opportunities for adults with neurodivergent conditions.

Tuesday 10 October at The Showroom Workstation, Paternoster Row, Sheffield, S1 2BX.  12.30pm until 2pm
https://autismplus.co.uk/employment-support/hidden-disability-job-fair

The Autism Centre for Supported Employment
offers skilled and experienced guidance for individuals with autism to find placements (unpaid) and paid employment within Meadowhall Centre, Sheffield City Centre and beyond. The aims are:

To find paid work and work experience placements for working aged adults who are on the autistic spectrum.
Give specialist support to our clients as well as advise and support their employer so that each individual gets the best out of the experience.
Break down barriers so people who have autism will be recognised for who they are as individuals.
https://ac4se.org/

Autism Plus

Autism Plus has several programmes to assist autistic people with employment including:

Preparing for Work: Employment support for young adults with SEND (18 to 24)
Access to Work: Fully funded support to individuals in employment, including those in apprenticeships and internships.
One Off Sessions: Sessions aimed at individuals who may need a little extra guidance and support every now and then.

See this link for more information https://autismplus.co.uk/employment-support/individual-support

Local Supported Employment (LSE)

Local Supported Employment (LSE) helps individuals with autism into work. LSE is new programme that is already making a huge difference to individuals with learning disabilities and autism, who are looking for paid employment. The programme is part of Opportunity Sheffield, the employment and skills service at Sheffield City Council.

Not only do our LSE Job Coaches help individuals overcome barriers to employment, but they also support them throughout their journey once they have found permanent employment.

Local Supported Employment helps individuals with autism into work

 

Need some In Work Support?  Spectrum-e
Spectrum-e offer disability specialist ‘in-work’ support to individuals with Autism, Asperger Syndrome, learning disabilities, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, ADHD and ADD, physical disabilities and long term health conditions.

Homepage

 

Sheffield Occupational Health Advisory Service SOHAS
SOHAS The first step to getting one to one support and advice when your health is impacted by your working environment. The service we provide is free and confidential and is accessible for anyone who lives or works in Sheffield who have any type of health issue. We give advice either face to face or by Teams, Zoom, WhatsApp or over the telephone.

Home

 

Help needed with research into Fabricated or Induced Illness as an autistic parent:
I am now recruiting participants for my PhD so if you know any autistic parents who have been accused of fabricated or induced illness (FII) as an autistic parent please can you share this post with them. Please see attached flyer for more information about this.

Potential participants can email me at Murphysh@edgehill.ac.uk

 

Sheffield Parent Carer Forum events
Information session: Autism and anxiety
WHEN: 12:30pm – 2:00pm Tuesday 3rd October
Adult: Free
WHERE: Lowedges Community Centre, Gresley Road, Sheffield, S8 7HN

Information session: Sensory issues and behaviours that challenge
WHEN: 1:00pm – 2:30pm  Friday 6th Oct
Adult: Free
WHERE: Darnall Family Centre, 563 Staniforth Road, Sheffield, S9 4RA

 

Information session: Autism and food
WHEN: 12:30pm – 2:00pm  Tuesday 10th Oct 2023
TICKETS: Adult: Free
Please book your place at https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP activities – autumn programme
These sessions are open to children and young people (0-25years) with a learning disability and their families to enjoy together. Please note that parents/carers must stay with their children at all our activity sessions.

What’s on offer:
Swimming at Hillsborough Leisure Centre
Taekwondo sessions at the English Institute for Sport (EIS)
Trampoline at Hillsborough Leisure Centre

Please see attached information sheet for more info and how to join the sessions.

Get involved – adults

· Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 18 October everyone welcome – new members too! This is a Sheffield Autistic Society group and meets on the second Wednesday of the month,

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached for group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive.

Future dates: 8 November, 13 December

Peer to peer support (Zoom)

These online only sessions are facilitated by Helen Purdie for the Sheffield Autistic Society. They will be an opportunity for individuals to check-in with themselves and to talk about their lived autistic experience with another autistic adult who is experienced in offering individual and group support in this way.

Sessions are free of charge and are for one hour – please contact helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

· Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health. Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub, a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

· WAND – Autistic Women’s Network

WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield. If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk
and she can give you more information and sign you up.

ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more. The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers
For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans. They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with our staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call.

The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached leaflet.

Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB. Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim. Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information.

Adult Autism Support Hub to open later this year

The aim of the new service is to develop and deliver drop-in provision offering support to autistic people aged 16 and above, and their (informal) carers and families. People will be provided with information, advice and opportunities to connect with community groups and support in a welcoming and safe environment. If there are any questions please contact the service directly using the contact details below:

Adult Autism Support Hub, Mobile Number: 07811 589909

Email: adultautismsupporthub.mhm@nhs.net Website: Mental Health Matters www.mhm.org.uk

Referred for a diagnostic assessment at SAANS? – latest waiting times

Please see the link below for information on the waiting times for an adult autism or adult ADHD assessment at the Sheffield Adult Autism and Neurodevelopmental Service (SAANS) https://www.shsc.nhs.uk/services/sheffield-adult-autism-and-neurodevelopmental-service-saans

If you think you would benefit from a referral to this service you need to speak to your GP or health professional who is supporting you. If they agree that an assessment would be appropriate they need to complete a referral form.

The Peer Support Service for parents/carers from Sheffield Parent Carer Forum

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

 

Family Support Groups

Autism Hope Sheffield

We are a support group for parents and family members of children of all ages, with Autism Spectrum Conditions based in north Sheffield. We meet weekly to offer support, understanding, advice and friendship to each other (during term time). We have in person meetings with a cuppa, cake and chat and also zoom meetings if you can’t make it in person. We have regular guest speakers from organisations that can help and signpost to other services.

Contact Details: Email Address: autismhopesheffield@gmail.com Facebook: Autism Hope Sheffield Tel: 07968 984179 Web: https://www.autismhopesheffield.co.uk/

ACCT Sheffield

We run a wide range of in-person and online activity groups for autistic children and young people, parent-carers and whole family activities. We run several sessions each week, including multi-activity groups and specialist sessions focused on particular activities that children and young people attending ACCT has asked us to run.

Our regular activities currently include:

Acctivate – multi-activity in-person group for autistic 5-12 year-olds held on Saturday mornings (9.45am-12.15pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

Teenage Club – in-person group for autistic teenagers aged up to 18, held on Wednesday evenings (7-9pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

ACCT Academy Football Coaching – Friday evenings (6 -7pm) at Goals on Norfolk Park Road. Book a place by contacting ACCT.
Minecraft Club (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run through a private server. For any age, every Saturday morning. ACCT has guest logins available for participants who don’t have their own. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Dungeons and Dragons (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run over Zoom. For teenagers and young adults. Every Monday evening or Saturday afternoon. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Parent-Carer Meetings – ACCT runs fortnightly meetings, on Tuesday evenings, via Zoom, for peer support, information sharing and discussion of topics of interest and importance to parent-carers of autistic children and young people. Book a place by contacting ACCT. We also run workshops and training for parent-carers.

Places at Acctivate and Teenage Club are available through referral by contacting Sheffield City Council. All other activities are available directly from ACCT. Join ACCT as a member (it’s free), then contact us to book a place. More information about referrals and joining ACCT available here https://acctsheffield.org.uk/about/

Sparkle Sheffield

Sparkle Sheffield is a local registered charity that supports children and young people from birth to 25 with Autism Spectrum Conditions and other social communication difficulties. Founded and run by parents who have autistic children, we understand what life is like and how we can work together to improve our children’s and our family’s life. Sparkle Sheffield exists to support families with autistic children meet the challenges they face, feel less isolated, less frightened and more empowered. Autism affects individuals and their families in a wide variety of ways and the approach we use recognises these individualities.

Sparkle Sheffield aim to support and help individuals and families by providing:

• Opportunities for children and families to create a support network with others in similar situations – we regularly organise online and in-person events where children and families can meet others without fear of judgment.

• Providing support for autistic individuals: social groups, activities and forming friendships – we host regular events such as Ninja Warrior, swimming, cinema trips and other fun activities.

• Providing a circle of support for individuals to feel they belong and fit in, have friends and develop the strategies and skills they need to succeed in life.

Most importantly – we have lots of fun in the process! https://sparklesheffield.co.uk/

SSENDIAS information sessions
Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions. These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND. The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

– What is an EHC Needs Assessment
– SEN Support in Schools
– Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk

Support for Carers

Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:

Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.
Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.

Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.

Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.
Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.

Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.

Emergency Planning: We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.

Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.
Time for a Break Grant: Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.
Information and resources: Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.

Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’ provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.
Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at: https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

Working in partnership for better services

What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership/

Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers. For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Welcome to all our new members and thank you to everyone for your support. Here is a round-up of information and news for JULY which we hope you will find useful and of interest.

Latest News

Adult Autism Support Hub to open this autumn

The aim of the new service is to develop and deliver drop-in provision offering support to autistic people aged 16 and above, and their (informal) carers and families. People will be provided with information, advice and opportunities to connect with community groups and support in a welcoming and safe environment.

MHM want to say a big thank you to everybody who has been involved with our recent focus groups, online forms or who have provided feedback via email or phone calls. This has been very well received and we already have a lot of information to help with the co-production of the Adult Autism Support Hub.

Below are the links for anybody who would like to have their say about the new service by completing the short online forms:

· What would you like the service to look like?

· How would you like the service to operate?

· How best to engage with the service and receive information?

We may not be able to do everything that has been suggested straight away to focus on ensuring the service is fit for purpose and allow time for the service to function effectively. We will always show in a ‘you said, we did or working on’ approach so that you are aware of what activities might be coming to the Adult Autism Support Hub once it goes live in the Autumn.

If there are any questions please contact the service directly using the contact details below

Adult Autism Support Hub, Mobile Number: 07811 589909

Email: adultautismsupporthub.mhm@nhs.net

Website: Mental Health Matters www.mhm.org.uk

SAPAG Meeting and AGM Wednesday 19th July

The next Sheffield Aspergers Parent Support Group (SAPAG) support meeting will be at 7pm on Wednesday 19th July at The Curzon Cinema in the upstairs cafe bar area.

Look out for the table with the SAPAG label. Website: https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/

 

Get involved – adults

· Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 12 July everyone welcome – new members too! This is a Sheffield Autistic Society group and meets on the second Wednesday of the month,

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached for group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive.

Peer to peer support (Zoom)

These online only sessions are facilitated by Helen Purdie for the Sheffield Autistic Society. They will be an opportunity for individuals to check-in with themselves and to talk about their lived autistic experience with another autistic adult who is experienced in offering individual and group support in this way.

Sessions are free of charge and are for one hour – please contact helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

· Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health. Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub, a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more. The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers.

For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information.

Autistic Women’s Network – WAND
WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield. If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson (s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk) and she can give you more information and sign you up.

Space for new members at Gateway social groups

They can also support with the current cost-of-living crisis with sessions and advice on saving money, living well on a budget and cooking cheap and tasty meals.

Groups are held at Sheffield Mencap and Gateway each week on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 6:30pm – 8:30pm.

For more information, or to book a free trial session, please get in touch with Laura at adultsprojects@sheffieldmencap.org.uk or on 01142767757

New Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans. They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with r staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call.

The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached leaflet.

Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB. Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim. Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

Support with accessibility during hospital visits

A new team has been set up within the hospital trust to support Autistic people and/or those with a learning disability in making their visits or stays more suitable. You can contact the team on 01142267472 or sth.lda@nhs.net

Take part in research at the Diversity Lab in London

We are researchers from the Developmental Diversity Lab at University College London (UCL) conducting a research study on implicit mentalizing and voice processing among autistic people. Our target participants are autistic adults. In the study, participants will be invited to participate in two cognitive assessment tasks and a voice-processing task (in-person at UCL Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience). The whole experiment takes around 2 hours, participants will be compensated for 9 pounds per hour, and reimbursed for come-and-return costs.

We assure you that all necessary information and materials will be provided promptly to facilitate the promotion process. We appreciate your consideration of our request, and should you require any information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Thank you for your time, and we look forward to hearing from you soon.

To learn more about Developmental Diversity Lab at UCL, please click here https://devdivlab.org.uk/

Get involved – children and young people

Sheffield Parent Carer Forum events

Free information session: Introduction to Autism
Tuesday 18th July 2023 at 10:00am – 12 noon
at St Mary’s Church and Community Centre, Bramall Lane, Sheffield, S2 4QZ

This is a two-hour presentation and workshop for parents who are starting their exploration of autism: whether you have recently received a diagnosis, are waiting for one, or perhaps you suspect that your child might be on the autism spectrum. We will discuss the main traits, challenges and strengths associated with autism and do a bit of myth-busting too.

Please book your place at https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

Information session: Autism and Anxiety
Thursday 13 July 10.30am til noon
Stocksbridge Children’s Centre, 648 Manchester Road, Sheffield, S36 1DY

This information session will be delivered by a member of our Peer Support Team. It will consist of a presentation on autism and anxiety, followed by plenty of time for discussion and peer support around any issues on this subject that parent carers would like help with. There is no charge for the session and no diagnosis is required, all are welcome to attend. Booking essential.

To book and for more details: https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

Autism Hope Sheffield

We are a support group for parents and family members of children of all ages, with Autism Spectrum Conditions based in north Sheffield. We meet weekly to offer support, understanding, advice and friendship to each other (during term time). We have in person meetings with a cuppa, cake and chat and also zoom meetings if you can’t make it in person. We have regular guest speakers from organisations that can help and signpost to other services.

Contact Details: Email Address: autismhopesheffield@gmail.com Facebook: Autism Hope Sheffield Tel: 07968 984179 Web: https://www.autismhopesheffield.co.uk/

ACCT Sheffield

We run a wide range of in-person and online activity groups for autistic children and young people, parent-carers and whole family activities. We run several sessions each week, including multi-activity groups and specialist sessions focused on particular activities that children and young people attending ACCT has asked us to run.

Our regular activities currently include:

Acctivate – multi-activity in-person group for autistic 5-12 year-olds held on Saturday mornings (9.45am-12.15pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

Teenage Club – in-person group for autistic teenagers aged up to 18, held on Wednesday evenings (7-9pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

ACCT Academy Football Coaching – Friday evenings (6 -7pm) at Goals on Norfolk Park Road. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Minecraft Club (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run through a private server. For any age, every Saturday morning. ACCT has guest logins available for participants who don’t have their own. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Dungeons and Dragons (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run over Zoom. For teenagers and young adults. Every Monday evening or Saturday afternoon. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Parent-Carer Meetings – ACCT runs fortnightly meetings, on Tuesday evenings, via Zoom, for peer support, information sharing and discussion of topics of interest and importance to parent-carers of autistic children and young people. Book a place by contacting ACCT. We also run workshops and training for parent-carers.

Places at Acctivate and Teenage Club are available through referral by contacting Sheffield City Council. All other activities are available directly from ACCT. Join ACCT as a member (it’s free), then contact us to book a place. More information about referrals and joining ACCT available here https://acctsheffield.org.uk/about/

The Peer Support Service for parents/carers

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

SSENDIAS information sessions
Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions. These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND. The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

– What is an EHC Needs Assessment
– SEN Support in Schools
– Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

 

SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk

 

Support for Carers

Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:

Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.

Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.

Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.

Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.

Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.

Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.

Emergency Planning: We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.

Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.

Time for a Break Grant: Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.

Information and resources: Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.

Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’ provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.

Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at: https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

Working in partnership for better services

What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

 

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership

Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers. For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

Sheffield Autistic Society

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Latest news

The Autism Show 2023

Access over 100 hours of specialist talks, clinics and workshops at this year’s Autism Show.

Once inside the event, all theatres and features are free to enter and content is CPD certified for professionals

7 – 8 July, Manchester Central https://manchester.autismshow.co.uk/

Congratulations to ACCT

Winners in The People’s Projects. This secures £70k of funding for all of our clubs THANK YOU so much for all of your votes, and all of your shares.

Understanding the Mental Capacity Act

Free online event for people with a learning disability, autistic people and family members and friends on Tuesday 20 June 11am-12.30pm – see attached PDF.

Support with accessibility during hospital visits

A new team has been set up within the hospital trust to support Autistic people and/or those with a learning disability in making their visits or stays more suitable. You can contact the team on 01142267472 or sth.lda@nhs.net

Get involved – adults

· Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 14 June everyone welcome – new members too! This is a Sheffield Autistic Society group and meets on the second Wednesday of the month,

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached for group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive.

Peer to peer support (Zoom)

These online only sessions are facilitated by Helen Purdie for the Sheffield Autistic Society. They will be an opportunity for individuals to check-in with themselves and to talk about their lived autistic experience with another autistic adult who is experienced in offering individual and group support in this way.

Sessions are free of charge and are for one hour – please contact helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk for more information.

· Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health. Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub, a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more. The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers.

For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information.

Autistic Women’s Network – WAND

WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield.

If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson (s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk) and she can sign you up. WAND has recently launched an online Forum and Sylvia can explain how to access that.

New Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans. They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with r staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call.

The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached leaflet.

Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB. Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim. Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

 

 

 

From Emma Tomkinson, Mental Health Matters

Hello,
We are proud to announce that Mental Health Matters (MHM) are soon going to be launching a new drop in provision for autistic people in Sheffield but we need your help to decide what this service should be called.

Therefore, we are asking potential clients, friends/family, referral agents, partners and commissioners to have their say and come up with some names. Once the initial names have been collated another survey will be sent for you to choose which name you want our service to be called.

If you would like to contribute towards creating our new service name, please click on the link below to complete a short survey by 11:59 on Sunday 21st May 2023
https://forms.office.com/e/4thZQyMCkK

About the service
The aim is to develop and deliver drop-in provision accessible to, and offering support to, autistic people aged 16 and above, and their (informal) carers and families. People will be provided with information, advice and opportunities to connect with community groups and support in a welcoming and safe environment.

We will work closely with other partners and VCSE groups to create the drop in provision and will continue to work with these services to support the delivery of the provision. Further information will be shared once a name has been decided.

Objectives

Autistic people in Sheffield aged 16 and above will:

* Have increased access to services and support in their community (a community hub that would provide a signposting service and a space where other experts could hold more specialist sessions)

* Feel better supported, with more of their individual needs met as a result of accessing the provision

At MHM, we believe in empowering people to put themselves at the centre of their care/support, and in control of their lives.

MHM are passionate about partnership working to support service users to achieve their goals.
For the creation of the drop in provision we are looking to identify what the needs are of individuals and those involved with autistic people to look at what support is best to help all to achieve their goals. Therefore, we will work closely with individuals, partners and other organisations to create a provision that will support all. Further surveys and focus groups will be communicated to understand what the goals of individuals so that we can create a service which will meet as many needs as possible.

We really appreciate your thoughts and look forward to hearing your suggestions for what this exciting, new service should be called

Kind regards

Emma Tomkinson
Area Manager (North West)
Mental Health Matters (MHM)
Website: Mental Health Matters (mhm.org.uk)

 

Hi Everyone

Welcome to all our new members and thank you to everyone for your support. Here is a round-up of information and news for May which we hope you will find useful and of interest.

Get involved – adults

Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 10 May everyone welcome – new members too! This is a Sheffield Autistic Society group and meets on the second Wednesday of the month,

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached Group Online Group guidelines 2023 which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive.

Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health. Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub, a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more.

The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers.

For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community, alternate Thursdays on Zoom, 3-4pm or at Spirit of Sheffield, 3-5pm. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information.

Autistic Women’s Network – WAND

WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield.

If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson (s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk) and she can sign you up. WAND has recently launched an online Forum and Sylvia can explain how to access that.

New Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans.

They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with r staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call. The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached leaflet.Sheffield Support Hub – A5 Leaflet

Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB. Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim. Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

Get involved – children and young people

Free information session: Autism and anxiety

It will consist of a presentation on Autism and anxiety, followed by plenty of time for discussion and peer support around any issues on this subject that parent carers would like help with.

There is no charge for the session and no diagnosis is required, all are welcome to attend. Please book your place at https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

Monday 15th May 2023 at 10:00am – 11:30am at Primrose Family Centre, 45 Creswick Street, Sheffield, S6 2TN

Sheffield Parent Carer Forum events:

Transition subgroup meeting on 16 May :
This group is for parents of young people aged 14-25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities. This meeting will have a focus on employment support, and we’ll be joined by representatives from Autism Plus and Opportunity Sheffield to learn more about the support they offer. We are a friendly group and there will be time to chat and swap information with other parents. No need to book, just turn up.

FREE trial session: Craft for children with additional needs on 1 June

This is an opportunity for your child to try out the craft sessions we’ll be running with Ignite Imaginations during the summer holidays. Led by a professional artist, the sessions are aimed at age 7-11 years, but older children who enjoy ‘younger’ activities and non-disabled siblings are welcome, too! Parents must stay for the whole session. Booking essential. Please book via Ignite Imaginations. If you have any queries, call Ignite Imaginations on 0114 2686813 or email enquiries@igniteimaginations.org.uk

To book and for more details: https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

Autism Hope Sheffield

We are a support group for parents and family members of children of all ages, with Autism Spectrum Conditions based in north Sheffield. We meet weekly to offer support, understanding, advice and friendship to each other (during term time). We have in person meetings with a cuppa, cake and chat and also zoom meetings if you can’t make it in person. We have regular guest speakers from organisations that can help and signpost to other services.

Contact Details: Email Address: autismhopesheffield@gmail.com
Facebook: Autism Hope Sheffield
Tel: 07968 984179
Web: https://www.autismhopesheffield.co.uk/

ACCT Sheffield

We run a wide range of in-person and online activity groups for autistic children and young people, parent-carers and whole family activities. We run several sessions each week, including multi-activity groups and specialist sessions focused on particular activities that children and young people attending ACCT has asked us to run.

Our regular activities currently include:

Acctivate – multi-activity in-person group for autistic 5-12 year-olds held on Saturday mornings (9.45am-12.15pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.
Teenage Club – in-person group for autistic teenagers aged up to 18, held on Wednesday evenings (7-9pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.

ACCT Academy Football Coaching – Friday evenings (6 -7pm) at Goals on Norfolk Park Road. Book a place by contacting ACCT.
Minecraft Club (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run through a private server. For any age, every Saturday morning. ACCT has guest logins available for participants who don’t have their own. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Dungeons and Dragons (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run over Zoom. For teenagers and young adults. Every Monday evening or Saturday afternoon. Book a place by contacting ACCT.

Parent-Carer Meetings – ACCT runs fortnightly meetings, on Tuesday evenings, via Zoom, for peer support, information sharing and discussion of topics of interest and importance to parent-carers of autistic children and young people. Book a place by contacting ACCT. We also run workshops and training for parent-carers.

Places at Acctivate and Teenage Club are available through referral by contacting Sheffield City Council. All other activities are available directly from ACCT. Join ACCT as a member (it’s free), then contact us to book a place. More information about referrals and joining ACCT available here https://acctsheffield.org.uk/about/

The Peer Support Service for parents/carers

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

SSENDIAS information sessions
Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions. These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND. The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

– What is an EHC Needs Assessment
– SEN Support in Schools
– Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk

Support for Carers

Free Workshop: Wills and Power of Attorney – 12 May

Sheffield Carers Centre are working with ‘Lawson Wills and Probate’ to help carers with free access to legal advice on various topics, including this one on ‘Wills and Power of Attorney’. Lawson Wills and Probate is a family-focused business run by Leigh Purdy who is a member of the Institute of Professional Will Writers and adheres to their code of practice.

During this workshop, Leigh will explain the importance of organising Wills and Power of Attorney for all involved in a caring role. The workshop will also include a Q&A session at the end.

For more details and to book https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/Event/workshop-wills-and-poa or phone us on 0114 278 8942

Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:

Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.

Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.

Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.

Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.

Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.

Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.

Emergency Planning: We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.

Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.

Time for a Break Grant: Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.

Information and resources: Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.

Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’ provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.

Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at: https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

Take part in research about autism

Are you a woman (Cis or Trans) or person assigned female at birth who has a diagnosis of autism?

Elissa Thompson and her colleagues from Sheffield Health and Social Care Trust are conducting a research project around understanding the experiences of Autistic women and women diagnosed with a personality disorder. They are currently recruiting for people to take part in the research questionnaires, and a £25 voucher is on offer for those taking part. Please see flyer attached SHSC Research for more information about it.Take part in research

Do you have a diagnosis of autism? Are you looking for treatment of anxiety?

I am writing to you from the University of Bristol Medical School about the STRATA study – the largest ever study of its kind investigating the treatment of anxiety in autistic adults. I wonder if you would kindly circulate the research opportunity below to people access your services or in your newsletter? See Anxiety STRATA Recruitment Poster

We are also looking to recruit participants with a carer, who, with permission, we would approach about taking part in a sub-study to explore how the treatment of anxiety for adults with a diagnosis of autism affects them as a carer. A carer can be anyone who knows the person well and helps them with some tasks – they do not need to be a formal carer.

We are recruiting participants in Sheffield and surrounding areas, and so are trying to spread the word about the opportunity to take part to as many people as possible. I’m very happy to speak with you about it in more detail/answer any questions. Leonora Cotton, STRATA Trial Manager, Tel: 0117 455 5738 Email: leo.cotton@bristol.ac.uk

Autistic and ADHD traits in people from mixed population correlate with stress regulation – can a Fitbit help?

My name is Dr Gabija Toleikyte and I am a neuroscience and psychology lecturer who is passionate about investigating how we can create the best society, learning and working environments for neurodiverse individuals. To achieve that, I am currently testing if heart rate variability (HRV) assessed by Fitbit could be a useful measurement of well-being and stress regulation. I am curious if the number of neurodiversity traits in ADHD and Autistic spectrums would correlate with HRV and Emotional wellbeing scores. Therefore, I am seeking for healthy adult participants regardless of their relatedness to neurodiversity labels. In the study, you will be expected to come to SHU Collegiate Campus to complete 3 questionnaires self-assessing relatedness to Autistic traits, ADHD traits, and emotional wellbeing. Then you will receive Fitbit Charge 5 which you will need to wear for 2 weeks (24/7) and mark your levels of stress, emotional well-being and physical health on the daily basis. After 2 weeks you will need to come back to SHU collegiate campus to return Fitbit and, if all the steps are completed correctly, receive £20 Amazon voucher as your reward. By the way, if you start taking part and change your mind, you can withdraw at any point during the study, also, you can ask your data to be deleted up to 7 days after your participation has been completed.

Who can take part if you:

• Are 18 years and over;

• Don’t find topics of autism, ADHD, emotional wellbeing, and HRV emotionally upsetting;

• Are not currently suffering from an acute mental health issue such as depression or anxiety or take antidepressants or anxiety meds;

• Do not have any known cardiovascular system’s issues such as excessively high blood pressure, or heart arrhythmia;

• Do not suffer from insomnia or take sleep-inducing medicine;

• Do not have a known allergy to rubber;

• Would not mind being subject to Fitbit’s data privacy policy (https://www.fitbit.com/global/us/legal/privacy-policy)

If you would like to take part or have any questions, please email me at g.toleikyte@shu.ac.uk

Working in partnership for better services

What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership

Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers. For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

Autism Support Hub

We are awaiting further details about when this is going to be available and will let you know as soon as we have more information.

All-age autism assessment pathway

The NHS has coproduced a new national framework for planning, design and delivery of an all-age autism assessment pathway that works for everyone: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/autism-diagnosis-and-operational-guidance/

Best wishes

www.sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk

 

 

 

 

Hi Everyone

Here is a round-up of information and news which we hope you will find useful and of interest.

Get Involved – Adults

• Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm:  Wednesday 12 April everyone welcome – new members too!

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk  and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along.  See attached for group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings which are friendly and supportive. Peer Group Online Group guidelines 2023

• Join the A Team!

We are a group of adults on the autistic spectrum who meet socially on a regular basis either just to enjoy ourselves or to learn something new or to improve our physical or mental health.  Some of us are parents, some work for local employers or are self-employed, others engage in volunteering and other forms of work experience and others still are studying.

We have a number of regular activities which include a monthly meeting at a friendly city centre pub,  a monthly walk in the area, a monthly art/craft event, a fortnightly snooker club and a monthly online social group. We send out a weekly newsletter to members about activities that are coming up and wider events in Sheffield.

For details of how to join please see https://sheffield-aspergers.org.uk/a-team-social-group/

• ACCTing Out Social Group

ACCTing Out is a social group for young autistic adults aged 18 and above. We run fortnightly activities normally on Tuesday evenings, to places like the cinema, to play pool, go for a meal, and more.

The group runs supportive social opportunities that help young adults to get out of the house and participate in activities with friends and peers. The group aims to help boost the confidence and self-esteem of young adults, have a positive impact on mental health and build social, communication and life skills. Each ACCTing Out activity is led and supported by ACCT staff and volunteers.

For details of how to join please see https://acctsheffield.org.uk/accting-out/

• Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community, alternate Thursdays on Zoom, 3-4pm or at Spirit of Sheffield, 3-5pm. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information. Poster attached.

• Autistic Women’s Network – WAND

WAND is an Autistic Women’s Network that is being established in Sheffield.

If you are interested in joining the network please contact Sylvia Johnson (s.m.johnson@shu.ac.uk) and she can sign you up.  WAND has recently launched an online Forum and Sylvia can explain how to access that.

• New Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support.  You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation.  They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans.

They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with r staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call. The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached leaflet. Sheffield Support Hub – A5 Leaflet

• Peer support – ADHD Adult Group

Face to face meetings upstairs at the NHS Walk In Centre on 75 Broad Lane, Sheffield, S1 3PB.  Second Wednesday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm.

For more details contact: ADHDPEERSSHEFFIELD@GMAIL.COM

• Autistic friendly swim at Concord Sports Centre

An autism friendly session takes place on Sundays between 3.45pm – 4.30pm: Autism/Sensory Swim.  Please see website for details of pricing and booking https://www.sheffieldcitytrust.org/venues/concord-sports-centre

Get Involved – Children and Young People

• Autism Hope Sheffield

We are a support group for parents and family members of children of all ages, with Autism Spectrum Conditions based in north Sheffield.  We meet weekly to offer support, understanding, advice and friendship to each other (during term time).  We have in person meetings with a cuppa, cake and chat and also zoom meetings if you can’t make it in person.  We have regular guest speakers from organisations that can help and signpost to other services.

Contact Details:  Email Address: autismhopesheffield@gmail.com Facebook: Autism Hope Sheffield Tel: 07968 984179 Web:  https://www.autismhopesheffield.co.uk/

• ACCT Sheffield

We run a wide range of in-person and online activity groups for autistic children and young people, parent-carers and whole family activities. We run several sessions each week, including multi-activity groups and specialist sessions focused on particular activities that children and young people attending ACCT has asked us to run.

Our regular activities currently include:

• • Acctivate – multi-activity in-person group for autistic 5-12 year-olds held on Saturday mornings (9.45am-12.15pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.
  • Teenage Club – in-person group for autistic teenagers aged up to 18, held on Wednesday evenings (7-9pm). Places available through Sheffield City Council’s referral process.
  • ACCT Academy Football Coaching  – Friday evenings (6 -7pm) at Goals on Norfolk Park Road. Book a place by contacting ACCT.
  • Minecraft Club (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run through a private server. For any age, every Saturday morning. ACCT has guest logins available for participants who don’t have their own. Book a place by contacting ACCT.
  • Dungeons and Dragons (Online groups) – facilitated by ACCT staff and run over Zoom. For teenagers and young adults. Every Monday evening or Saturday afternoon. Book a place by contacting ACCT.
  • Parent-Carer Meetings – ACCT runs fortnightly meetings, on Tuesday evenings, via Zoom, for peer support, information sharing and discussion of topics of interest and importance to parent-carers of autistic children and young people. Book a place by contacting ACCT. We also run workshops and training for parent-carers.

Places at Acctivate and Teenage Club are available through referral by contacting Sheffield City Council. All other activities are available directly from ACCT. Join ACCT as a member (it’s free), then contact us to book a place. More information about referrals and joining ACCT available here https://acctsheffield.org.uk/about/

• The Peer Support Service for parents/carers

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

• Coffee Morning at the Parent Carer Forum

Coffee mornings are run by our friendly volunteers. They are open to all parent carers, whatever their children’s needs, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed, mild or severe. Pre-schoolers and home-educated children are welcome too. Pop in for a few minutes or stay for the whole session – no need to book. You can be sure of a warm welcome and plenty of tea, coffee and cake!

Next session is: 10:30am – 12:00pm on Tuesday 25th Apr 2023 at St Mary’s Church and Community Centre, Bramall Lane, Sheffield, S2 4QZ https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

• SSENDIAS information sessions
  Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions.  These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND.   The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

• • – What is an EHC Needs Assessment
  • – SEN Support in Schools
  • – Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

• SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

• • Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
  • S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk  

Support for Carers

• Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:
• Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.
• Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.
• Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.
• Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.
• Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.
• Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.
• Emergency Planning:  We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.
• Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.
• Time for a Break Grant:  Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.
• Information and resources:  Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.
• Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’  provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.
• Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at:  https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

• Carer’s Credit

To get a full state pension you need a certain number of years of NI contributions. Carer’s Credit is a National Insurance credit that helps with gaps in your National Insurance record. Your State Pension is based on your National Insurance record. Your income, savings or investments will not affect eligibility for Carer’s Credit.

You could get Carer’s Credit if you’re caring for someone for at least 20 hours a week and they don’t have to be in receipt of benefits themselves. It is worth checking your eligibility as could make a difference to your pension.  Full details are at:   https://www.gov.uk/carers-credit/eligibility

You can also check your NI record https://www.gov.uk/check-national-insurance-record to see if you have any gaps and your State Retirement Pension at: https://www.gov.uk/check-state-pension

• Council webpage with links to lots of practical and helpful information on cost of living

Everyone is affected by the cost-of-living crisis in some shape or form. Sheffield City Council has a special page on their website highlighting some of the local and national support available to help you manage the cost-of-living in Sheffield.

The webpage has sections for areas such as Money Support, Food Support, Help with Energy Costs plus information on community help.

https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/cost-of-living?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

Working in Partnership for Better Services

• What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership

• Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers.  For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

• Autism Support Hub

Limited funding has been made available for an Autism Support Hub in Sheffield.  The proposal will develop and deliver a service specification of drop-in provision accessible to and offering support to autistic people in Sheffield. This will be available to people aged 16 and above with or without a formal diagnosis of autism.  Services will be provided in easy to access community venue/s through the support of recognised, established, and specialised organisations.

If you would like to be part of the working group around developing this concept then please email k.toman@vas.org.uk.

Best wishes
Sheffield Autistic Society

 

From Liz Friend:

Hi Everyone,
Spring is around the corner and the nights are finally getting lighter!
Here is a round-up of information and news which we hope you will find useful and of interest

Get involved – adults

Adult Autism Peer Support Group (Zoom)

For autistic adults 18+ only – will meet online over Zoom on the following date from 7pm until 8.30pm: Wednesday 8th March everyone welcome – new members too!

Please contact Helen for more information at helen.purdie@hotmail.co.uk and she will send you the joining details if you wish to come along. See attached for group guidelines which set out what to expect at the meetings.

Free one-to-one support sessions for autistic adults

These online only sessions are facilitated by Helen Purdie for the Sheffield Autistic Society. They will be an opportunity for individuals to check-in with themselves and to talk about their lived autistic experience with another autistic adult who is experienced in offering individual and group support in this way. Through dialogue in a confidential space, individuals will be able to share concerns, gain a better understanding of their autistic selves and feel heard.

Sessions are free of charge and are for one hour – please see Peer Group Online Group guidelines 2023 for further information.

Inclusive LGBTQ+ Café

A social meet up for neurodiverse/disabled members of the LGBTQ+ community, alternate Thursdays on Zoom, 3-4pm or at Spirit of Sheffield, 3-5pm. Email Kelly.scargill@disabilitysheffield.org.uk for more information. Poster attached.

New Mental Health Drop Hub in Sheffield city centre

A new drop-in Mental Health Support Hub has opened for people who are experiencing a mental health crisis and want support. You can just turn up as there is no need to book. The staff team is available to provide emotional, social and practical support if you are in crisis or feel you are heading toward a crisis situation. They also offer help in creating staying well and crisis plans.

They offer support in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can come just for a chat or to access one-to-one support and group sessions with our staff team. Help is available in person, over the phone and via video call. The Hub is on Bank Street S1 2DS and open in the evenings 6pm –12 pm and 2pm -12 pm at weekends. See the attached  Sheffield Support Hub -Leaflet.

Take part in research about autism

“I’m Sharon and I am researching into autism and special interests and passions for my MA in Autism at Sheffield Hallam University. If you would like to take part in this study then I would be very grateful.

Part of my project is to interview autistic people who are over 18 years of age. It is a semi-structured interview so not set questions, it will be more of a discussion about the pros and cons of having special interests/passions. It is voluntary but I will cover travel costs and happily buy coffee and cakes.

If you’d like any further information, please contact me by email smcourt10@hotmail.com. Please see attached Special Interest Research Group Poster for more info.”

Autism Alert ID Card – South Yorkshire Police

South Yorkshire Police and the National Autistic Society have worked together to create a new Autism Alert Photo ID Card. The free, credit-card sized, Autism Alert cards are now in circulation to help police and other emergency services workers communicate with autistic residents more effectively, helping those on the autism spectrum feel more comfortable in what perhaps could potentially be an extremely stressful or frightening situation. In addition, we offer Learning Disability Alert photo ID cards to help our officers and other emergency service workers communicate effectively with individuals with learning disabilities. https://www.southyorkshire.police.uk/sign-up/autism-alert-learning-disability-alert-or-mental-heath-alert-card

Get involved – children and young people

Breaking News (3 March 2023) about SEND provision from the National Autistic Society:

“In 2022, over 42,000 of you asked the Government to invest in autistic children’s futures and fix the broken SEND system. After a long wait, and lots of pressure from our campaigners, this week the Government finally published the SEND and Alternative Provision Improvement Plan.

The plan announced new funding for SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), which will be used to recruit more school staff and simplify the process of getting EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans). This could be great news for some autistic children and young people.”

For more information and a link to download the plan see: https://www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/news/long-awaited-send-improvement-plan-released

Start for Life Sheffield – Parent Focus Group

Sheffield City Council are keen to hear from parent/carers with children in their early years (0-5yrs) with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), to understand their recent experience of accessing services able to provide help and support to both children and families in their early years. Your feedback will help inform the new Early Years Strategy, “Start for Life Sheffield. The current version, “A Great Start in Life”, is due to end in March 2023. We would like your support in ensuring that the new strategy is reflective of our city and its families.

The focus group will run for approx. 2hrs. for up to 8 participants. You must have a child 0-5 years with SEND to attend this group and we are particularly keen to hear from those who have children 0-2 years. We are offering a £20 Love to Shop voucher to all attendees. Details are at: sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/start-for-life-sheffield-parent-focus-group/booking-form/

The Peer Support Service for parents/carers

The Peer Support Service was created in response to feedback from parents of children and young people aged 0-25 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) in Sheffield. Feedback clearly showed that there is a lack of support both before and after a child receives a diagnosis. Although the funding for the project has a focus on autism and other neurodevelopmental needs, our service is available for ALL families, with or without a diagnosis. We will continue to work closely with families in Sheffield, listening to their ideas and concerns, using these to shape the service going forward.

If you would like a 1-1 appointment, please call our main number 0300 321 4721 and select option 1 for our Peer Support Service. Alternatively, please email peersupport@sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk

Coffee Morning at the Parent Carer Forum

Coffee mornings are run by our friendly volunteers. They are open to all parent carers, whatever their children’s needs, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed, mild or severe. Pre-schoolers and home-educated children are welcome too.

Pop in for a few minutes or stay for the whole session – no need to book. You can be sure of a warm welcome and plenty of tea, coffee and cake! 10:30am – 12:00pm Tuesday 9 March 2023 at St Mary’s Church and Community Centre, Bramall Lane, Sheffield, S2 4QZ

 

SSENDIAS information sessions
Sheffield SENDIAS (Sheffield SEND Information and Advice Service) offer free online information sessions. These are for parents and carers of young people aged 0-25 with SEND. The sessions answer some of the most frequently asked questions.

There are various sessions available, which run in both the daytime and evenings covering topics such as:

– What is an EHC Needs Assessment
– SEN Support in Schools
– Checking a Draft EHC Plan

Details are at https://sheffieldsendias.org.uk/training-and-events

SEND Youth Clubs

Sheffield City Council Community Youth Services run the following youth clubs for young people aged 13 to 25 years with special educational needs and/or disabilities:

Leo’s SEND club: Monday 6-8pm, Centre in the Park, Guildford Avenue, Norfolk Park, Sheffield S2 2PL
S Club 5 SEND club: Tuesday 6-8pm, Milan Youth Centre, Longley Lane, Sheffield S5 7JS

Just turn up to your chosen club and a Youth Worker will help you to complete the registration form. For further information contact Community Youth Services on 0114 2057450 or e-mail youth.services@sheffield.gov.uk

Support for Carers

Sheffield Carers Centre is a local independent charity founded in 1993, that is also affiliated to the national Carers Trust charity. They provide a range of high quality services to unpaid adult carers in Sheffield. They can offer a range of support including:

Carer Advice Line: Call us for personalised expert advice on anything related to your caring role. One of the team is an Urdu and Punjabi speaker, and we use an interpretation service for other languages.

Carer Card: This offers discounts on a wide range of services, products and activities from local and national businesses; plus there is space to record two emergency contact numbers.

Carer Activities & Carers Workshops: Regular activities for carers to have a break from their caring role and look after their own wellbeing and a programme of workshops to help carers share experiences and learn new skills.

Legal Advice Clinic: Free 30-minute individual legal advice sessions with a legal expert, offering advice around topics such as wills, estate planning and power of attorney. Clinics are held on a monthly basis.

Carer Café & Support Groups: The Café is held every Friday and is a great chance to meet other carers. The Support Groups take place at various locations around Sheffield on a regular basis.

Community Connect: A telephone support service providing regular phone calls from volunteers to reduce social isolation and connect carers with their local community.

Emergency Planning: We provide information to help carers make an emergency plan if something unexpectedly stopped them from looking after the person they care for.

Carer’s Assessment: A carer’s assessment provides an opportunity to discuss the impact of your caring role with our Carer Advisors, who will discuss the support you might need and help put this in place.

Time for a Break Grant: Small grants for short breaks or activities that support wellbeing and help you take a break from your caring role. We’ll assess your eligibility as part of a Carers Assessment.

Information and resources: Easy access to a range of information and resources on our website from expert sources covering more than 20 topics to help with your caring role.

Digital Resources for Carers: Carers can access the free online ‘Digital Resources for Carers’ provided by Carers UK and Sheffield City Council, includes information, eLearning, resources, and the Jointly app.

Carers News: This free monthly E-newsletter provides up-to-date information about our services and activities, along with key news items that affect carers.

Details of all of the above are at: https://www.sheffieldcarers.org.uk/i-am-a-carer-so-how-can-you-help-me

Council webpage with links to lots of practical and helpful information on cost of living

Everyone is affected by the cost-of-living crisis in some shape or form. Sheffield City Council has a special page on their website highlighting some of the local and national support available to help you manage the cost-of-living in Sheffield.

The webpage has sections for areas such as Money Support, Food Support, Help with Energy Costs plus information on community help.

https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/cost-of-living?utm_content=&utm_medium=email&utm_name=&utm_source=govdelivery&utm_term=

Working in partnership for better services

What is the Sheffield Autism Partnership Board?

Sheffield’s Autism Partnership Board (APB) currently meets each month to improve the provision of services and support for autistic children, adults, their families and carers in Sheffield, including young autistic persons in transition to adulthood. Members include representatives from Sheffield City Council and local NHS bodies, community and voluntary sector organisations and services; autistic adults, their parents, carers and family members, professionals and other relevant organisations and individuals.

You can read more about the work of the APB on our website here https://sheffieldautisticsociety.org.uk/partnership

Sheffield Autism Partnership Network (SAPN)

The Sheffield Autism Partnership Network is a Sheffield based consortium focusing on improving the lives of Autistic people and their families in our city.

It is a network of organisations (voluntary, community, public, private and statutory), Autistic individuals and their support systems (parents, carers, friends, partners, etc) who work with Autistic people, their families and carers. For information about the network, its member organisations and how they can help you and your support system see the website: https://sapn.org.uk

All Age Autism Strategy for Sheffield

The Autism Partnership Board has developed a draft All Age Autism Strategy for Sheffield for the next three years, up to March 2026. We want to know what people think of the draft strategy before we launch it next month.The consultation runs until Tuesday 7 March 2023.

Here’s the link to the survey: https://haveyoursaysheffield.uk.engagementhq.com/autism-strategy-consultation

Potential funding for Autism Support Hub

Limited funding has been made available for an Autism support hub in Sheffield. The Supplier (successful bidder) will develop and deliver a service specification of drop-in provision accessible to and offering support to autistic people in Sheffield. This will be available to people aged 16 and above with or without a formal diagnosis of autism. Services will be provided in easy to access community venue/s through the support of recognised, established, and specialised organisations.

The specification and bid information are attached to this email.

If you would like to be part of the working group around developing this concept then please email k.toman@vas.org.uk

Best wishes

Sheffield Autistic Society

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Special Interests research poster.png
Attachments:
Peer Group Online Group guidelines 2023.docx 16.3 KB
Special Interests research poster.png 200 KB
Sheffield Support Hub – A5 Leaflet.pdf 183 KB
Drop_in_provision_to_support_autistic_people_RFQ (1).doc.docx 95.1 KB