Local Information Briefing from Me too & Co
Dear Parents, Carers, Friends and Associates,
Welcome to your local information briefing from Me too & Co. Here is some information from other organisations that might be of interest to you.
We have divided this into 7 sections this month:
1. Activities for children and young people
Please click on the headings to see the full information (please note some iphone devices may not support this function. Please scroll down instead).
We hope you find the briefing useful, please get in touch if you have any information for inclusion.
Best wishes,
Skylarks Team
a) Sport
LEARNING TO SWIM
Specialising in baby swimming, pre-school swimmers and toddlers
Wendy Dorgan is well known to many in the SEND world for teaching children to swim. She operates out of Teddington Pool and teaches mostly on a one to one basis and all kinds of disabilities are catered for.
Offer mainly 1:1 lessons but also small group work for improvers.
Venues in Shepherd’s Bush and Kensington. Parents say they are expensive but worth it.
Did you know that people with certain health conditions in Richmond are entitled to a free swimming pass?
SWIMMING CLUBS
Teddington Torpedoes is run by Wendy Dorgan at Teddington Pool. The aim is to enable children to be safe in water so they and their families get more out of holidays and swimming.
RISE (Richmond Inclusive Sports and Exercise) run a swimming group on a Tuesday evening at Teddington Pools. It runs from 6.00 - 6.45pm in term time.
Saturday afternoons at 3pm and 4pm
Companion Cycling is a scheme that enables people who are unable to ride “solo" cycles for whatever reason to enjoy the pleasure of cycling with a companion in the traffic-free surroundings of Bushy Park, adjacent to Hampton Court.
MULTI SPORTS
RISE canoeing
We work alongside two local football clubs who provide Saturday morning sessions and matches for children with Disabilities. Please contact:
Thursdays, 6.30 to 7.45pm
Waldegrave School
The Chelsea Football Club’s charitable and community activities, include running football clubs for children both in the UK and overseas.
Inclusive rugby sessions for children who have Special Educational Needs and Additional Vulnerabilities. This will run every Sunday, during the season at the club from 10. There is NO TACKLING in Inclusive Rugby and those players who pick the game up well may use it as a stepping stone into mainstream rugby with their parents and their agreement.
Richmond Gymnastics Association provides a range of services at its purpose-built headquarters in Kew:
Option one is a disability specific class on Wednesdays or Fridays, these classes are split by age/year group.
Saturday Drama in East Sheen
Knots Arts drama sessions run in East Sheen and are an exciting place for children aged 4 – 16 years old with social communication difficulties to come and make new friends whilst having fun.
Richmond Mencap offers activities for young people aged 12+ and adults with learning difficulties. Their latest newsletter and activity list are available here:
Time to Sparkle runs on Friday mornings in term time at Ham Children’s Centre. This is a smaller, quieter stay and play group for children who need support with their communication, social and emotional development and attention skills and families who would benefit from some additional support.
OKMT Summer Workshops Twining Avenue Studio
1st August & 8th August and 15th August & 22nd August :
OKMT MUSIC MARATHON – SUNDAY 30th SEPTEMBER
One of our families has set up a new playgroup in Hounslow for children with additional needs and their families.
Surrey Explorers is the London branch of Potential Plus UK (PPUK), a charity whose aim is to enable children of all ages with high learning potential to grow in confidence, thrive and achieve social, emotional and academic fulfilment.
All children with additional needs and their siblings are invited to join the OK Youth Choirs project. Only a love of singing is necessary. Non-verbal and emerging voices are welcome too.
SATURDAY ABA CLUB
The club is open to children with autism and those with other social communication disorders aged 2 to 12 and it operates in Cheam, Surrey.
INCLUSIVE PLAY PROJECT
SATURDAYS 10 - 12
Marble Hill Adventure Playground is open on Saturday mornings for the Inclusive Play Project, which takes place every Saturday all year round from 10am - 12pm for children with additional needs and their siblings, aged up to 15 and is free of charge.
Some of our families have recommended this amazing playground run by KIDS for children with additional needs and their siblings in Wandsworth.
Redlees Play Centre, in the corner of Redlees Park in Isleworth, has a fantastic adventure playground which is fully accessible and also a building with sensory room and café. T
Reflections runs drop-in play sessions for children with additional needs and their families every other Sunday (when Redlees is not open) from 10am to 2pm. No need to book and free of charge.
Relationship-building courses, weekend camping adventures and 1:1 mentoring for fathers.
Orleans House Gallery invite your secondary school aged children to become part of the Octagon Club, their after school club for children with SEN age 11 - 17 on Tuesday afternoons from 4-6pm.
DID YOU KNOW THAT THE TAG YOUTH CLUB HAPPENS EVERY FRIDAY EVENING, ALL YEAR ROUND! AND TAG JUNIOR YOUTH CLUB IS EVERY OTHER FRIDAY!
NEW!
www.parklanestables.co.uk Tel: 07796 842328 Email: parklanestables.co.uk
Horse riding lessons plus opportunity to care for horses in Park Lane, Teddington, riding in Bushy Park. Some funding through Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
NEW!
www.turtlekeyarts.org.uk Tel: 020 8964 5060 ruth@turtlekeyarts.org.uk
Based at the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith Turtle Key Arts work to encourage participation in the arts by groups of disadvantaged and marginalised people of all ages.
NEW!
Yorda is a not-for-profit community organisation based in Chessington that works with families in and around the borough of Kingston-upon-Thames. They provide play projects for children and young people with severe learning disabilities.
NEW!
Pictologue is an organisation based in Mortlake which offers inclusive Playgroups and 1:1 PlayTime. They also offer Play Therapy as well as Speech and Language therapy sessions at home, school or their playroom.
This pass enables free entry to a range of our family programmes at Orleans House Gallery
In the summer holidays the Holly Lodge Centre will be once again running Summer Fun in Richmond Park.
www.action-attainment.com Tel: 0208 392 9946 sam@action-attainment.com
This organisation supports young people with social communication needs work to enjoy positive sporting experiences: kayaking, paddle boarding, ball sports, golf, tennis and also cycling and bike maintenance.
NEW!
Role Models SEN Summer Camps are now known as Merton Mencap’s Movers and Makers
for children aged 6-12 years with mild to moderate special needs.
Kingston, Guildford, Farnham and beyond. Youth groups and respite care.
At Challengers, we run Pre-Schools for disabled and non-disabled children ages 2-5, Playschemes for disabled and non-disabled children ages ages 4-12, Youth schemes for disabled young people ages 13-18, and Young Adult Schemes for disabled young people ages 18-25. We have schemes across Surrey and the South East.
RUN BY THE CHANGE FOUNDATION
The Change Foundation runs disability programmes including the London Futures programme. The aim of this programme is to help young people into employment or Higher Education.
HERE IS A QUICK SUMMARY OF THOSE WE ARE AWARE OF. IF THERE ARE ANY YOU KNOW ABOUT WHICH ARE NOT ON THIS LIST, PLEASE DO DROP US AN EMAIL.
Did you know: every Local Authority has to provide a Local Offer, a database of everything that is available locally for children and young people with additional needs.
Steve Broach and the Post-16 maze
SEND Family Voices invites you to come and listen to Steve Broach, a leading barrister and
expert on health, education and social care for SEND.
Friday 21st -Sunday 23rd
September 2018
with
Sona Sharma
LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR RESPITE CARE NEEDS
The Friends of Croft Cottage are a group of parents of children with disabilities who came together to keep Croft Cottage open.
RUILS Family Matters Workshops
RUILS PAYROLL SERVICES
Voiceability offer advocacy support. Most of their services are available to those living in Wandsworth, but some services are offered in Hounslow and Merton too.
AfC info for Kingston and Richmond are running some courses which could be useful for our parents:Are you concerned about your child's behaviour at home? Would you like to talk to a member of our Educational psychology or Emotional Health teams about this?
.
Time Out for Teens is a positive parenting course for parents of adolescents from age 11 to 19 and is being held in Whitton on a Monday morning from 9.30 to 11.30 am.
ADHD Richmond is a voluntary, independent, non-funded, parent/carer support group for the neuro-developmental condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder & all its co-morbidities. Parents and carers from any borough are welcome to attend their seminars.
NEW!
Fastminds is the Kingston ADHD support network.
The charity Mencap arrange seminars on setting up a Will or Trust for parents of children with learning disabilities.
Freephone Helpline, 10.00am - 4.00pm Mon-Fri: 0800 808 3555
Do you know how to contact Contact A Family?
Do you know about Hounslow Toy Library? You don't have to live in the borough of Hounslow to go there! Just like Skylarks, anyone from anywhere is welcome!
NEW PLAYGROUP IN HOUNSLOW ON MONDAYS
One of our families has set up a new playgroup for children with additional needs and their families on Mondays in Hounslow.
Activity Station in Barnes offer activities and a respite service for people with mild/moderate learning disabilities.
21&Co are based at the Langdon Down Centre in Teddington and their aim is to enhance the lives of children with Down syndrome and their families.
KIDS has the local contract to provide the benefits advice service to support families of children and young people (up to 18 years) to complete the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independent Payment (PIP)
Did you know that Charley Ripley and the team at KIDS can attend school meetings with you?
KIDS has the contract for Richmond and Kingston to offer support and guidance to parents to have effective interactions with schools.
The Richmond office of Moore Blatch, holds regular legal clinics offering advice to parents and young people regarding a range of education issues, specifically around Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) issues.
Major expansion of Universal Credit
The Universal Credit full service was rolled out to a further 47 jobcentres in May, with further 60 areas planned for June. Visit our Universal Credit webpagefor more information about how Universal Credit is being rolled out and how to make a claim.
Did you know that as a carer of a disabled child you can claim Carer’s Credit?
This is different from Carers Allowance.
SEND Family Voices is the local parent-led forum for parents of children with additional needs in Richmond and Kingston. They ensure that the parent voice is represented to decision makers, offer advice and organise a wide range of workshops and meetings:
by stevebroach - Updated 19 March 2018 - RIGHTSINREALITY
“Thoughts on the crossroads of law, politics and society – for when a tweet isn't enough. This blog contains general information and commentary on legal matters. It is not intended to provide legal advice. This blog discusses the law in England, unless otherwise stated.”
CHILDREN’S CENTRES, run by the Local Authority, offer a variety of
services, including:
Free information sessions available to help with benefits, budgeting and everyday expenses
A service for children with autism and is a not-for-profit community organisation supporting young people
NEW!
Parenting a sensory child- a course for parents and carers (3-part course)
Does your child have difficulties processing sensory information? Is parenting your sensory child challenging? This is the course for you!
Families with children aged 5-18 in the borough of Richmond who has been diagnosed
with autism within the last year can contact CAMHS to be put on the list for their
next parenting course
KAG is a not-for-profit charity that helps vulnerable people have a say in decisions that affect them and how they live their lives.
All parent carers of children with disabilities are invited to our monthly Forum meeting. This is a chance to be involved and kept up-to-date with all the services provided for our children and is an opportunity to have your say.
We run a home education group for parents/carers who have a child who is not at school for any reason, or are thinking about home schooling. The sessions are held at Skylarks.
BENEFITS ADVICE FOR HOUNSLOW
The Carers Project takes place on Wednesday mornings between 10am and 1pm. The venue is The Bridgelink Centre, Summerwood Road, Isleworth TW7 7QR. (Next to Asda).
ASD Support Group for Parents and Carers of children with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
NEW!
resourcesforautism.org.uk Tel: 020 8458 3259 Email: admin@resourcesforautism.org.uk
A registered charity based in North London providing practical services and support for adults and children with ASD and their families
Richmond AID and RUILS have been providing an Independent Support service to families and young people in the borough for the last 4 years. The Independent Supporters are Alex Hardy and Jonathan Rourke.
Have you heard of RUILS’ Sitting and Befriending service?
http://www.ruils.co.uk/services/sitting-befriending/
For more information please contact Sue Robson at suerobson@ruils.co.uk or on 020 8831 6413.
Free confidential service for all young people between the ages of 11 and 26 who live, work or study in the borough of Hounslow.
Counselling Service for parents/carers of children with special needs
Express CIC have launched a low-cost counselling service to parents and carers of children with autism and additional needs.
Did you know that Ruils has a counselling service for adults? We have a student counsellor offering 3 slots a week – Tuesdays at 5pm and 6pm and Wednesdays at 8.30am.
Relate London SW offers free counselling to children and Young People aged 5-18 years old. Children are entitled to up to 12 sessions 1:1 counselling free of charge if they live or study in the boroughs of Richmond or Kingston under a contract with Achieving for Children.
Off The Record Twickenham
We are a charity that offers:
Walk-in information
Counselling
Sexual health service
If you are a young person aged 11 to 24 who lives, studies, or works in Richmond borough, then you can use these free confidential services.
SITUATIONS VACANT:
NEW!
Does your child have a fantastic LSA at school who might be interested in a little bit of paid work in the summer holidays? Or a teaching assistant or carer who want to earn a bit more money?
If so, please put them in touch with us!
Wimbledon family (SW20) looking for nanny to assist mom with 6, 5, and 2 year old girls. They are sweet, kind, and happy girls. Assist with day-to-day responsibilities of a busy household. Hours: Mon- Fri 2-8pm.
NEW!
A FAMILY IN TEDDINGTON is looking for a live-in au-pair as their current helper is leaving at the end of May.
NEW!
Child-focused play worker for ABA therapy needed in Isleworth
A lovely family are looking for someone to work with their wonderful 5 year old son who has ASD (verbal) on a part time ABA programme.
MOTHER’S HELP/COOK NEEDED IN STRAWBERRY HILL
Hours 12:15 to 7:15 Strawberry Hill, Monday to Friday
Pay: depends on experience, £10-12 net per hour
We are a warm, friendly, informal family looking for a kind, experienced helper to help with a variety of jobs in the home, the core tasks being cooking, pet care and light household tasks.
AND
Skylarks PARENTS OFFERING AVAILABILILITY TO WORK
Does your child need help with English?
One of our mature mothers who has had a successful career in corporate company secretariat, legal, administration, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, retail operations and property within the retail and pharmaceutical industries, is looking for home based or local opportunities on either a part-time or project work basis.
Moving from primary to secondary school raises a number of challenges for children. This may be particularly true for pupils with neurodevelopmental disorders who have to deal with additional changes in the structure and quantity of additional support they are receiving in school.
We are final year undergraduate students at Northumbria University conducting research into effective communication platforms to raise awareness of the adapted clothing market for people with complex needs and disabilities.
This is a list of organisations that offer grants or funding to families that can be used towards short breaks, equipment and other things.
The father of one of our children is running the British10K in London on Sunday 15th July to raise funds for Small Steps and would appreciate any support. Good luck Ashley!
new!
If you can’t make it to the hairdressing sessions at Skylarks, then there is another option:
Gina Selby
c/o Action For Children Warren Park Respite Centre, Kingston
Kingston Hill
Kingston upon Thames
KT2 7LX
SUPPORT FOR CARERS TO MOVE INTO EMPLOYMENT
Working for Carers is a London-wide project that supports unpaid carers, aged 25 or over, to move closer to employment. The project is led by Carers Trust and delivered by its network of 24 partners across London, and is jointly funded by the Big Lottery Fund and European Social Fund.
RICHMOND AID’S BUDDY UP SCHEME FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN RICHMOND AND KINGSTON
BuddyUp supports young disabled people between 14-18 years old and help them to get out and access a range of different social / leisure activities of their choosing.
CREATING A SUPPORT NETWORK FOR DADS
The Emotional Health Service and Family Support Service are running an informal, drop-in group to
support dads in their role as a parent or carer of a child with a disability.
FUTURE LEARN OFFERS FREE ONLINE COURSES, WITH THE OPTION TO UPGRADE TO A PAYING COURSE IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE A CERTIFICATE
This is for anyone who has a child or children who are high functioning , with or without disability (gifted and talented).
The charity Sibs supports siblings of those with additional needs.
A Skylarks parent has recommended the Disability Identification Card, which is an easy way to let others know your child has a disability and may need extra consideration and/or support.
PIP worries? Talk to the experts online
The disability charity Scope has an online community which has recently seen many posts relating to PIP and other benefits.
Richmond Carers Centre has produced a Caring and Technology Guide to help carers to think about how technology could help them and how to access it.
NEW!
Great Oaks College is opening in September 2018 in a purpose built building on our new site at Gresham Road, Hounslow offering a range of Further Education opportunities to young people aged 19-25 with moderate, severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties, including autistic students.
NEW!
www. ymcalsw.org Tel: 07587 034278 Hayley Turner Email: Hayleyturner@ymcalsw.org YMCA London South West, through their Inclusive Lives Project, offer a range of health and wellbeing activities for people with disabilities including dance, tennis and supported gym sessions. V
PHYSICAL THEATRE AND MOVEMENT WORKSHOPS
Fun theatrical workshops, exploring methods of physical theatre and movement through games and exercises, to promote inner confidence and improve physical fitness.
True Access runs a variety of social activities for young adults with disabilities aged 18 and above.
Our Barn is a youth club in Isleworth for young people with additional needs aged 16 to 25. It is open every Sunday from 3-6pm except for during the summer holidays.
PART 1: ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Firstly, a new Facebook page
Which should have everything you could possibly need on it!
SEN Fun London
a) Sport
LEARNING TO SWIM
Waterlife Swim School
Specialising in baby swimming, pre-school swimmers and toddlers
One of our parents teaches at this swim school. They welcome children with additional needs and have experience teaching children who are deaf and have Downs Syndrome. One of their teachers is Makaton trained.
Warm pools, small classes (not 1:1), and Saturday classes
at Cedars Club on Richmond Hill or Strathmore School at Grey Court School in Ham.
For more info call 0208 947 2149 or email info@waterlifeswimschool.com
WENDY DORGAN
Wendy Dorgan is well known to many in the SEND world for teaching children to swim. She operates out of Teddington Pool and teaches mostly on a one to one basis and all kinds of disabilities are catered for.
For further information about Teddington Torpedoes swimming club, contact Wendy Dorgan: Tel: 020 8943 0796 or 0790 555 6283 Email: wendydorgan@hotmail.co.uk
Another parent recommends:
International Swimming Academy
Offer mainly 1:1 lessons but also small group work for improvers.
Venues in Shepherd’s Bush and Kensington. Parents say they are expensive but worth it.
Swimming Nature
1:1 or 2:1 lessons at venues in Ham, Hounslow, Hammersmith and Kensington
Richmond free swimming pass
Did you know that people with certain health conditions in Richmond are entitled to a free swimming pass?
People living in the borough of Richmond can apply for a free swim pass if they have a health condition that can be improved by swimming (e.g. Weight Management Diabetes Arthritis, Lower Back Pain, Stress, Depression, Osteoporosis, Poor Balance, Poor Mobility or other conditions).
Call 020 8831 6133 or email daniel.hughes@richmond.gov.uk to get an application form. You can then take this form to your GP and explain you’re applying for a free swimming pass. You need your GP to sign the form and send it with a passport size photograph to the address below. You will receive your swim pass in the post. It is valid for one year, and can be used for entry to pools operated by and within Richmond Council.
SWIMMING CLUBS
Teddington Torpedoes
Teddington Torpedoes is run by Wendy Dorgan at Teddington Pool. The aim is to enable children to be safe in water so they and their families get more out of holidays and swimming. Large cubicles have been installed for easy changing. The scheme began with the enthusiasm of one teacher who has now trained several colleagues to work with disabled children.
The club meets every Wednesday and Friday evenings (during term time, where the children and young people improve their swimming skills in a fun, enjoyable and supervised environment.
There are 3 sessions, as follows:
Wednesdays 6-6:45 pm for beginner and intermediate swimmers aged 7-13 approx, each swimmer has 1:1 support in the water from a teenaged or student age helper.
Wednesdays 6:45-7:30 pm for intermediate and advanced swimmers aged 13+, mainly teenagers and young adults, some swimmers have 1:1 support but the majority take part in swim training with lane coaches standing on the side.
Fridays 6:30-7:15 pm for beginner, intermediate and advanced swimmers: all age groups 7+, some with 1:1 support, others doing training. (mostly adults in this group, plus the younger swimmers who can't make Wednesdays.)
The cost ranges from £5 to £8.50 per week (paid termly), depending on the level of support the swimmer receives. The helpers come from local schools, colleges and universities. They are all keen swimmers and some have swim teacher qualifications. Many of them are siblings of swimmers or have come to us via Duke of Edinburgh, and in some cases the helpers are swimmers who have shown a talent for assisting their peers. We swim during term-time, usually 11-13 weeks per term.
They also offer weekly swim training supplemented by aqua fit, a bit of water polo, learning life-saving skills, practising jumps and dives into the water, etc. They take part in a disability gala at the Spectrum in Guildford twice a year, as well as occasional other galas on offer. They have links with the local scuba diving club who offer diving sessions every winter. Most summers they do a bit of kayaking at the Lensbury. Plus the annual discos are quite popular too!
The social side of the club is quite important, with helpers facilitating friendships between swimmers and coaches. They have never decided if we are a swimming club that socialises or a social club that swims! Although the group is mainly focused on improving swimming skills, stamina and fitness, we have a lot of fun along the way.
Wendy says: “The group has been going for 12 years now, and many of our swimmers have been with us from the early days. Hence there aren't many spaces available, but based on individual swimmers' abilities and needs, I do my best to fit in as many as we can. Ideally, I prefer it if swimmers can already do basic swimming as swimming club is not a replacement for a swimming lesson. I'm happy to talk to parents about their children's needs re swimming and point them in the right direction.”
For further information about Teddington Torpedoes swimming club, contact Wendy Dorgan: Tel: 020 8943 0796 or 0790 555 6283 Email: wendydorgan@hotmail.co.uk
RISE SWIMMING GROUP
RISE (Richmond Inclusive Sports and Exercise) run a swimming group on a Tuesday evening at Teddington Pools. It runs from 6.00 - 6.45pm in term time. It came out of training for London Youth Games a few years ago and has developed into a very social group of young people who would like to improve their swimming stroke. Swimmers age from 8 to 18 and they must live or go to school in the borough of Richmond, as it is related to the London Youth Games programme. The swimming takes place in the main pool and swimmers need to be able to swim a length of the pool unaided - this does not have to be a fully recognised stroke but they do need to do be able to move themselves along in the water, not holding on to the sides or someone else. This session does not take the form of lessons, but is more of a social swim as this group have enjoyed the opportunity to keep swimming with people the same age as them. They have all improved their fitness, stamina and their swimming stroke and a couple of them won medals in the London Youth Games Paragames gala (it is not compulsory for participants to enter the gala if they do not want to). The cost for this is £5 per week and we ask for payment termly.
If your child or young person is interested in a weekly swimming club, please get in touch with:
Lizzy Roberts
Sports Development Officer
Phone: 020 8831 6134
INCLUSIVE SATURDAY TENNIS, CHELSEA HARBOUR CLUB FULHAM, BOOKING NOW
Saturday afternoons at 3pm and 4pm
there are two sessions – one for primary age at 3pm and another at 4pm for secondary age children. All SEN welcome – no aptitude or skill at tennis required. Lots of children have started without showing much interest or skills but have grown to learn and love it. The coach Andrew is very supportive and gentle and there is a team of volunteers to support him. For further details contact Paul.Smith2@lbhf.gov.uk. or 07903 864851 First come first served. You do not have to be a resident of Hammersmith and Fulham to attend.
Companion Cycling
Companion Cycling is a scheme that enables people who are unable to ride “solo" cycles for whatever reason to enjoy the pleasure of cycling with a companion in the traffic-free surroundings of Bushy Park, adjacent to Hampton Court.
They are a community resource helping people (including children) with special needs to enjoy the fun of cycling, by offering unique access to a range of specialised cycles. The hire scheme is available to individuals with special needs, families and special needs organisations (e.g. schools, day centres or clubs for people with disabilities). They can also arrange “one-off” visits for groups. Anyone, whatever their ability or mobility, can become a cyclist using one of the special cycles and with the aid of a “pilot” who might be a carer, a friend, a family member or one of their volunteers. The scheme operates in Bushy Park out of “The Stockyard” Environmental Education Centre.
Address: Companion Cycling, The Stockyard, Bushy Park, Hampton Court Road, TW12 2EJ
Tel: 020 8979 6061. Website: www.companioncycling.org.uk
Email address: general enquiries: info@companioncycling.org.uk
bookings: bookings@companioncycling.org.uk
Richmond’s Inclusive Sports and Exercise (RISE)
MULTI SPORTS
Hampton Sports Centre, Hanworth Road TW12 3HB
Saturdays 9 June – 21 July 2018
10.30-11.30
Ages 11-25 years
£4.70 (with a Richmond Card) £5.40 without
Canoeing/kayaking at the Lensbury Club
Football for age 5+ on Saturday mornings in Sheen
Multisports for 11+ on Saturday mornings
Dance for age 5-9 and 10-16 in Teddington
Trampolining for all ages in Whitton on Saturday mornings
Wheelchair basketball for ages 10+ in Twickenham on Thursday evenings
RISE canoeing
Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s 23 July – 31 Aug
10:30-12:30 £15.00 a session. Carers/parents go free. Canoeists must be 8 years or above
Contact:
Sports Development Team, LBRuT
Telephone: 020 8831 6181/6134
Fax: 020 8891 7904
Email: rise@richmond.gov.uk
BRENTFORD FOOTBAL L CLUB COMMUNITY SPORTS TRUST
We work alongside two local football clubs who provide Saturday morning sessions and matches for children with Disabilities. Please contact:
Chris Tribe
Disability Projects Co-ordinator
Email: CTribe@brentfordfccst.com
Telephone: 020 8326 7030
WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL
Thursdays, 6.30 to 7.45pm
Waldegrave School
For details and how to book, please contact: office@knightsbasketball.co.ukor 020 8797 0477
INCLUSIVE FOOTBALL FROM THE CHELSEA FOUNDATION
The Chelsea Football Club’s charitable and community activities, include running football clubs for children both in the UK and overseas.
The Foundation runs pan-disability football for children from 4 years up at the Chelsea FC training ground in Cobham, Surrey on Sundays from 2:00-3:30pm costing £54 per term. Children with disabilities including hearing impairments, Cerebral Palsy and autism amongst others, are all welcome and this club has been recommended by a Skylarks parent to be suitable and inclusive.
For further details:
WIMBLEDON RFC IN THE COMMUNITY
Inclusive Rugby Team
Inclusive rugby sessions for children who have Special Educational Needs and Additional Vulnerabilities. This will run every Sunday, during the season at the club from 10. There is NO TACKLING in Inclusive Rugby and those players who pick the game up well may use it as a stepping stone into mainstream rugby with their parents and their agreement.
If you have a son or daughter between the ages of 7 & 12 and think they just might enjoy what we have to offer, then bring them along to one of our sessions and give them a chance. There's no charge for the first few sessions so you've nothing to lose and more to the point you and your children may just find a whole new way to have fun and exciting new club to join.
We just need an idea of numbers so please let us know if your planning to come along plus a few details about your child e.g. name, date of birth and any particular likes and dislikes by e mailing us at: inclusiverugby@wmrfc.co.uk
John Woods, Development Manager WRFC
RICHMOND GYMNASTICS ASSOCIATION
Richmond Gymnastics Association provides a range of services at its purpose-built headquarters in Kew:
Option one is a disability specific class on Wednesdays or Fridays, these classes are split by age/year group. These classes offer the gymnasts a much smaller ratio of gymnast to coach and provides specialist one on one coaching. All of the coaches in this class are specifically qualified to work with children with disabilities and special needs. There are roughly 12 people or fewer in a class at a time. During this class the children will use a variety of equipment such as the trampoline, the balancing beam and the bars. There are also opportunities for the children to compete or perform in competitions, festivals and displays.
The times of the disability specific classes are:
Wednesday- 4pm-4.45pm – Reception and Year 1
Friday- 4pm-4.45pm – Year 2-Year 4
Friday – 4.45pm-5.30pm – Year 5 +
Option two is to be integrated into the mainstream classes here at Richmond with the option of a one on one coach if required. The Head of Disabilities will make the decision in conjunction with the parents on the most appropriate class for the child. There are many factors involved in making this decision, including whether a coach is available to provide one on one coaching if required. These classes are much larger than the Friday class, with often 40-50 children in a class with a 1:8 coach to gymnast ratio. During the class the children also go on a variety of equipment such as trampoline, the balancing beam and the bars.
For more information, please contact:
Jacqui Taylor
Head of Disabilities
Richmond Gymnastics Association
Townmead Road, Richmond TW9 4EL
Tel: 020 8878 8682 | email: rga@richmondgymnastics.co.uk
b) Social
KNOTS ARTS DRAMA CLASSES
Saturday Drama in East Sheen
Knots Arts drama sessions run in East Sheen and are an exciting place for children aged 4 – 16 years old with social communication difficulties to come and make new friends whilst having fun.
Drama sessions consist of games and activities which are designed to support the development of team working, processing and understanding and speech and language. Each session begins with a sharing of news from our week, followed by drama games appropriate to the ability of the group and culminating in a drama activity such as story-telling, physical theatre or improvisation.
Sessions run on Saturday mornings from 9am - 1.30pm, with each group running for between 45 minutes and 1 hour, dependent on age/ability, please contact us for more information on relevant time slots.
Sessions cost £100 per 10 week term, bursary spaces are available.
Saturday Youth Club in Mortlake
Knots Arts Saturday Youth Club takes place at the Powerstation Youth Club in Mortlake every Saturday during term time for young people aged 13 – 25 years old. The club is a thriving group of young people with social communication difficulties who love to try new things, meet new people and above all have fun. Sessions are designed to empower young people to try new experiences and suggest what they would like to be doing whilst at the club. Each week we begin with a sharing of news which is followed by a healthy activity (e.g. sport or cookery) and then a creative or discussion activity (art/drama/planning a trip).
Sessions run from 3pm - 5pm each week.
Sessions cost £200 per 10 week term, bursary spaces are available.
Monday evening Girls Group in Sutton
Knots Arts Girls Groups run on Monday evenings during term time at Sutton Life Centre, near Sutton Common. The groups are specifically for girls with social communication difficulties and are structured around weekly activities which give the girls a chance to share experiences, learn new skills and develop communication and friendships. Activities include arts, crafts, music, drama and games and are developed using the girl’s ideas, likes and suggestions.
Sessions run as follows:
Ages 6 – 10 years – 5.15pm – 6.15pm
Ages 11 – 13 years – 6.30pm – 7.30pm
Ages 14 - 16 years - 6.30pm - 7.30pm
Sessions cost £100 per 10 week term, bursary spaces are available.
Friday evening Youth Club in Croydon
Knots Arts Friday night Youth Club in Croydon takes place at the Samuel Coleridge Taylor Centre near Norwood Junction station and is for young people aged 13 – 25 years old with a social communication difficulty.
Sessions are designed to empower young people to try new experiences and suggest what they would like to be doing whilst at the club. Each week we begin with a sharing of news which is followed by a healthy activity (e.g. sport or cookery) and then a creative or discussion activity (art/drama/planning a trip).
Sessions run from 6pm - 8pm each week
Sessions cost £2 per week (thanks to support from Croydon Council)
RICHMOND MENCAP
Richmond Mencap offers activities for young people aged 12+ and adults with learning difficulties. Their latest newsletter and activity list are
available here:
http://richmondmencap.org.uk/whatwedo/whatwedo/regular-activities/
TIME TO SPARKLE
Time to Sparkle runs on Friday mornings in term time at Ham Children’s Centre. This is a smaller, quieter stay and play group for children who need support with their communication, social and emotional development and attention skills and families who would benefit from some additional support.
This is a drop in session on Fridays from 1.15 – 2.45pm at the Windham Croft Centre, Kew.
For more information please contact the Time to Sparkle Facilitators:
Helen Montgomery-Smith
07738 764076
Kathryn Hogarth
07864 609915
The timetable for all Children’s Centres activities can be found on the Achieving for Children website - www.afcinfo.org.uk - along with lots of other information about the Early Years provision across the borough.
Otakar Kraus Music Trust
OKMT Summer Workshops Twining Avenue Studio
1st August & 8th August :
Interactive Poetry & Music Workshop with Philip Wells and Edison : 4:00 to 4.45pm younger group (5 to 11 year olds)and 4.45pm to 5.30pm for the older group (12 years old and above)
15th August & 22nd August :
Drumming Workshop with Edison: 4:00 to 4.45pm for the younger group and 4.45pm to 5.30pm for the older group.
For more information or to book a place for your child, please contact Mercedes: mercedes@okmtrust.co.uk
Siblings are welcome to join in.
GENERAL
MUSICIANS WANTED....
OKMT MUSIC MARATHON – SUNDAY 30th SEPTEMBER
After Kate Heywood's marathon success earlier this year... OKMT are getting in on the act and taking on our own marathon... a marathon with a difference!
We are planning a NON-STOP MUSICAL EXTRAVAGANZA on Sunday 30th September 2018 from 12 noon until 6pm at St Margaret's Church Hall, St Margaret's, to raise funds for our OK Music School for children and young people with additional needs. We aim to have a day filled with music of many types along with stalls, games and refreshments.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR MUSICIANS, SINGERS, CHOIRS, BANDS - OF ANY STYLE - ALL ARE WELCOME!
You just need to be free to perform any time on 30th September 2018 between 12 and 6pm and get sponsorship from your friends and family. All money raised will go towards our amazing OK Music School.
If you or anyone you know would be interested in taking part in this fun day for a great cause, please contact Lucy Soleri at lucy@okmtrust.co.uk for an information pack, or visit our website at https://www.okmtrust.co.uk/news/okmt-music-marathon/
MONDAY AFTERNOON MOSQUE PLAYGROUP
One of our families has set up a new playgroup in Hounslow for children with additional needs and their families. This event takes place every Monday afternoon from 3 to 6pm at the Hounslow Jamia Masjid Mosque on Wellington Road South, Hounslow TW4 5HU.
You are very welcome to attend with your children.
For more information, please follow them on Facebook:
Surrey Explorers; stretching young minds
Surrey Explorers is the London branch of Potential Plus UK (PPUK), a charity whose aim is to enable children of all ages with high learning potential to grow in confidence, thrive and achieve social, emotional and academic fulfilment.
Surrey Explorers is an organisation which runs Talks and Workshops on interesting subjects for children who are curious, motivated and eager to learn beyond the school curriculum and to explore new interests.
THIS SUMMER
Surrey Explorers Summer School
Monday August 13th 10.45 - 3.00
and Thursday August 30th 11.45 - 4.00
This summer school is intended for children aged eight to thirteen to expand their comprehension and writing skills beyond what is taught in school. It is best suited for those who are creative, perhaps naturally more advanced than their peers, and who are bored or insufficiently stretched by lessons. The school is led by Oxbridge undergraduate humanities students with help from sixth-formers from St Paul's School. It aims to foster the super-curricular interest in literature, history and philosophy which is the perfect grounding for academic success at a higher level, as well as for a well-rounded intellectual life. Sessions will be taught in small year groups.
To be held at Putney Methodist Church. £25 per child, £23 for PPUK members. Buffet lunch included. If you cannot come to both days, each day is standalone. Places limited to 30 children. To book, reply to jennyclive@gmail.com, stating your child's name, age, school, school year entering in September and whether you are a member of PPUK. Payment on the day.
Topics to be announced.
Their term time workshops and talks take place on a couple of Sunday mornings per month from 10.30 – 12.30 in Epsom. Open to all 7 - 13 year olds (rough age guide, as they are happy to welcome older children) and cost £10 per child on the door, £2 discount for PPUK members. Parents are welcome to stay. Their sessions are held at Kingswood House School, 56 West Hill, Epsom KT19 8LG. 10 mins walk from Epsom station.
Typical workshops include subjects such as:
Genes and proteins
A cure for scurvy
Reporting the news
The history of the English language
How to design a satellite
Photography – what you didn’t know your camera can do
OTAKAR KRAUS YOUTH CHOIRS
All children with additional needs and their siblings are invited to join the OK Youth Choirs project. Only a love of singing is necessary. Non-verbal and emerging voices are welcome too.
Saturday mornings in term time
10.00 am: for ages 5-11 (40 minutes)
10.45 am: for ages 12 – 25 (40 minutes)
At the music department in Newland House School, Waldegrave Park, Twickenham TW1 4TQ.
For more information or to confirm your place, please email mercedes@okmtrust.org.uk
FOCUS SURREY
SATURDAY ABA CLUB
The club is open to children with autism and those with other social communication disorders aged 2 to 12 and it operates in Cheam, Surrey.
For more information/to speak to someone on the team, please email:
squadschool@thechildrensplaceslt.com
MARBLE HILL ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
INCLUSIVE PLAY PROJECT
SATURDAYS 10 - 12
Marble Hill Adventure Playground is open on Saturday mornings for the Inclusive Play Project, which takes place every Saturday all year round from 10am - 12pm for children with additional needs and their siblings, aged up to 15 and is free of charge. Families from any borough welcome.
Marble Hill Playcentres, Marble Hill Park, Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2NL. Pay and display car park.
For more information:
LADY ALLEN ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND, WANDSWORTH
Some of our families have recommended this amazing playground run by KIDS for children with additional needs and their siblings in Wandsworth.
It is mainly for Wandsworth residents, for whom the entry price is £3.50. Families from other boroughs can attend but need to contact them in advance and may have to pay more.
It is open after school every day and in the school holidays on weekdays.
Contact:020 7228 0278
REDLEES PLAY CENTRE, ISLEWORTH
Redlees Play Centre, in the corner of Redlees Park in Isleworth, has a fantastic adventure playground which is fully accessible and also a building with sensory room and café. The whole play centre is enclosed with a secure gate. You don’t need to live in the borough of Hounslow to use this facility.
They have drop-ins every other Sunday from 10am to 2pm, for the whole family.
REFLECTIONS SUNDAY DROP-INS
Reflections runs drop-in play sessions for children with additional needs and their families every other Sunday (when Redlees is not open) from 10am to 2pm. No need to book and free of charge.
There is a relaxing white room, a ball pool, soft play area and garden for you to enjoy.
Reflections can be found at Hounslow Urban Farm, Faggs Road, Feltham TW14 0LZ.
MAN AND BOY
Relationship-building courses, weekend camping adventures and 1:1 mentoring for fathers.
MAN&BOY concentrates on supporting boys aged between 10 and 12 (school years 5,6,7 & 8 ) who may be struggling with life. The group believes that this transition from junior to senior school is particularly important in a boy’s life and that a supportive, encouraging male role model can make a huge difference to their self-esteem. This activity is not targeted at children with SEND but we have heard from several parents that their children benefitted from this course. There is a cost involved.
AFTER SCHOOL ART CLUB AT ORLEANS HOUSE GALLERY
Orleans House Gallery invite your secondary school aged children to become part of the Octagon Club, their after school club for children with SEN age 11 - 17 on Tuesday afternoons from 4-6pm.
Find out more here:
TAG YOUTH CLUB
DID YOU KNOW THAT THE TAG YOUTH CLUB HAPPENS EVERY FRIDAY EVENING, ALL YEAR ROUND! AND TAG JUNIOR YOUTH CLUB IS EVERY OTHER FRIDAY!
HERE IS THEIR VIDEO:
YOUTH CLUBS IN HAM FOR YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 10 TO 15 and 15 TO 25
TAG Youth Club in open every Friday between 19:30 and 21:30 and is for young people aged between 15 and 25.
The Junior Club meets every other week on a Friday at Ham Youth Centre. The Club is open between 17:30 and 19:00 and is for young those aged between 10 and 15. (Please note the change in opening times for the Junior Club).
They are both open to children and young people from any borough.
Those who are aged 14 attend the Junior Club on Junior Club weeks and the Youth Club on the other weeks to provide a transition period.
They have a different theme and different activities each week. The cost is £5 per session.
The club has a sensory room, a computer room, a sports hall, an art room, lounge areas, a kitchen, tuck shop and access to outside space. Each session has a theme which is planned in advance, such as Bake Off, It’s a Knockout, Wet & Wild, Battle of the Bands, Open Air Cinema, The Apprentice, TAG Dancing.
Have a look at their social media links with pages on Facebook - @tagjuniors and @tagyouthclub.org and a Twitter account - @TAGYOUTHCLUB2
If your child is interested in attending, please contact Giles Hobart via email:
NEW!
Park Lane Stables
www.parklanestables.co.uk Tel: 07796 842328 Email: parklanestables.co.uk
Horse riding lessons plus opportunity to care for horses in Park Lane, Teddington, riding in Bushy Park. Some funding through Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).
NEW!
Turtle Key Arts
www.turtlekeyarts.org.uk Tel: 020 8964 5060 ruth@turtlekeyarts.org.uk
Based at the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith Turtle Key Arts work to encourage participation in the arts by groups of disadvantaged and marginalised people of all ages.
NEW!
Yorda Adventures
Yorda is a not-for-profit community organisation based in Chessington that works with families in and around the borough of Kingston-upon-Thames. They provide play projects for children and young people with severe learning disabilities.
NEW!
Pictologue
Pictologue is an organisation based in Mortlake which offers inclusive Playgroups and 1:1 PlayTime. They also offer Play Therapy as well as Speech and Language therapy sessions at home, school or their playroom. They also have a toy library and do outreach in speech and communication tools via the local libraries.
Free Family Pass to Orleans House Gallery
This pass enables free entry to a range of our family programmes at Orleans House Gallery
Family passes are available for those who are:
Unemployed
Receiving benefits including: Income Support, Job Seekers or Disability Living Allowance
Caring for a child with a disability
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Foster families
c) Summer holiday activities
HOLLY LODGE FUN
In the summer holidays the Holly Lodge Centre will be once again running Summer Fun in Richmond Park.
These free drop in sessions take place in the park with activities suitable for children with special educational needs or disabilities and their families.
24th and 25th July Isabella Plantation, near Peg’s Pond between 11am – 2pm
Story telling, crats and sensory fun
Bring a picnic
Action Attainment
www.action-attainment.com Tel: 0208 392 9946 sam@action-attainment.com
This organisation supports young people with social communication needs work to enjoy positive sporting experiences: kayaking, paddle boarding, ball sports, golf, tennis and also cycling and bike maintenance.
Action Attainment’s summer holiday sports programme is called FUN IN THE SUN
Family Programme
July 22nd adults with children aged 8+ try out paddleboards, kayaks at Brentford Lock
Teenage & Young Adults Programme
July 23rd & 27th Paddleboards, July 25th Kayaking at Brentford Lock; July 24th and 27th Ball Sports/Cycling Proficiency at venues in Barnes and Richmond Park. 30th & 31st July Introduction to Golf; venues at Strawberry Hill, Chiswick and Richmond
5-11s Programme
July 24th and 27th Ball Skills in Barnes
NEW!
SUMMER HOLIDAY CLUB
Role Models SEN Summer Camps are now known as
Merton Mencap’s Movers and Makers
for children aged 6-12 years with mild to moderate special needs
23rd- 27th July Early camp 2018
20th-24th August Mid camp 2018
28th- 31st August Late camp 2018
Albemarle School, Princes Way, London, SW19 6JP
The camp costs £70 per day.
If you need information about how a place for your child could be funded, please contact
Miranda Duffy or Niki Lowe at office.manager@swlondonmencap.nhs.uk or telephone 020 8687 4651
Challengers
Kingston, Guildford, Farnham and beyond. Youth groups and respite care.
At Challengers, we run Pre-Schools for disabled and non-disabled children ages 2-5, Playschemes for disabled and non-disabled children ages ages 4-12, Youthschemes for disabled young people ages 13-18, and Young Adult Schemes for disabled young people ages 18-25. We have schemes across Surrey and the South East.
All our schemes are completely inclusive and we have a non-exclusion policy. We don’t set any geographical boundaries and young people do not have to be on a ‘disability register’ to access our service.
Our website has more information on all of the schemes that we run: https://disability-challengers.org/what-we-do/
We are also planning to run a Summer Holiday scheme in Kingston this summer for 15 days in August, which might be of interest to some of the families that you support? We're running a Playscheme and a Youthscheme from Bedelsford School.
Challengers summer holiday scheme for children and young people aged 4- 18, Kingston - New for 2018!
This summer Challengers will be running a holiday scheme for children and young people at Bedelsford School in Kingston.
Challengers Playscheme for children age 4-12, running from 9:30am-4pm. Play and leisure activities are running from Bedelsford School.
Challengers Youthscheme for young people age 13-18, running from 10am-4pm. This is also based at Bedelsford School running a mix of out-and-about and venue-based activities including bowling, drumming, summer crafts, & meals out in the Kingston area.
Both schemes will run from the 2nd-24th August.
The Summer scheme is being supported by the school so students of the school will be given an early chance to book, in advance of the general booking period.
Alternatively, you can email KingstonPlayscheme@disability-challengers.org.
The Operations Office Team will be able to help but you can also ask to talk to me – Sam Morris, Service Manager for the Summer scheme. Tel: 01483 230 930
You can find out more information, including a programme of the activities we are running, via the links below:
If you need any further information, please do give the Play and Leisure Team a call on 01483 230 930. If you have any questions about the Kingston schemes, please ask for Sam Morris, who will be managing these schemes.
LONDON FUTURES SUMMER CAMP
RUN BY THE CHANGE FOUNDATION
The Change Foundation runs disability programmes including the London Futures programme. The aim of this programme is to help young people into employment or Higher Education.
As part of the programme they are running a summer camp for young people to work on these skills and to play some sport, based in Sutton.
Activities will include: employability games and
sports including; cricket, football and dodgeball
For who? Young people with a disability
aged 16 to 23, siblings welcome.
Date: Monday 20th—Wednesday 22nd August 2018
Time: from 10:30am till 2.00pm.
Where? The Change Foundation, Plough Lane,
Sutton, Surrey, SM6 8JQ.
Cost? Totally Free
To book a place contact:
Daniel Mynott
Mobile number: 07426 837 184
Email:
danielmynott@thechangefoundation.org.uk
PART 2: LOCAL ORGANISATIONS AND SUPPORT WHICH MIGHT BE USEFUL FOR YOU
HERE IS A QUICK SUMMARY OF THOSE WE ARE AWARE OF. IF THERE ARE ANY YOU KNOW ABOUT WHICH ARE NOT ON THIS LIST, PLEASE DO DROP US AN EMAIL.
LOCAL OFFER WEBSITES:
Did you know: every Local Authority has to provide a Local Offer, a database of everything that is available locally for children and young people with additional needs.
Richmond and Kingston’s Local Offer website has now been integrated with their main website for children’s services. It is now available at:
We would be interested to hear how easy you find it to get the information you need via their new website.
Hounslow’s is available at:
Skylarks has been invited to write a blog on the Local Offer website for Richmond and Kingston. You can have a look at it here and please spread the word:
Support for parents
Steve Broach and the Post-16 maze
SEND Family Voices invites you to come and listen to Steve Broach, a leading barrister and
expert on health, education and social care for SEND.
Steve is an articulate and entertaining presenter who will guide us through the maze that
surrounds post 16 provision; he will cover the practical application of the law.
Thursday 27 September 2018 10am – 3pm
Clarendon Hall York House Richmond Road TW1 3AA
There will be a Q&A session and topics will include:
Respite/Short breaks
Mental capacity
Education choices
Support to work
Parental responsibility
Social care
Community health
EHCPs
The event is free to residents of Kingston & Richmond. Booking is essential:
I’m hoping some parents might escape the routine of their daily giving lives to give back a little time and treat themselves to some nourishing zen space in wild Wiltshire this September. The holidays always used to take it out of me! So here’s a retreat with me - with plenty of of time to rest, replenish with nature and easy yoga! I have 2 spaces left for the weekend and 3 spaces for day students who may only want to escape for just a day!
ONE OF OUR SUPPORTERS AND PARENTS, SONA IS RUNING A YOGA RETREAT IN WILTSHIRE OFFERING PEACE, QUIET AND REST.
Friday 21st -Sunday 23rd
September 2018
with
Sona Sharma
An hour and twenty minutes by car from London and thirty minutes from Bristol. Trains to Chippenham/Swindon.
Cost of weekend:
Bell Tent £275pp
Shepherd Hut £380pp
Price includes all meals, snacks, hot drinks, yoga and accommodation. A reduced rate is
available if sharing a tent/hut.
For enquiries and to book please call or
email Sona.
SONA SHARMA
M: + 44 (0)7812 525736
DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE SEVERE TO PROFOUND NEEDS?
LET US KNOW ABOUT YOUR RESPITE CARE NEEDS
The Friends of Croft Cottage are a group of parents of children with disabilities who came together to keep Croft Cottage open.
Following their successful negotiation with Achieving for Children to keep this respite centre in Richmond open for an information-gathering period of time, they have been working on another survey aimed at potential users of Croft Cottage, namely those families of children with severe to profound needs.
They hope to demonstrate by the results of this survey that there is a huge need to keep Croft Cottage from closing, because of individual need for a smaller setting, choice and of course, future demand.
PLEASE TAKE A FEW MINUTES TO COMPLETE THIS SURVEY TO SHOW WHAT NEED THERE IS FOR RESPITE CARE
RUILS RUNS WORKSHOPS WHICH WILL BE OF INTEREST TO OUR FAMILIES
RUILS Family Matters Workshops
Our next workshop is about relaxation – for children with special needs, and their parents. You can book a place here:
Just Relax: Relaxation techniques for children and Self-Care for Parents
Zara Simmonds is a certified Relax Kids and Just Relax Coach, teaching children and young people how to help themselves feel calm, focused and relaxed in a fun and engaging way. This session aims to give stressed and over-stretched parents and carers a much needed boost. Using the Relax Kids 7-Steps as a backbone, she’ll be looking at some methods to manage anxiety and stress, and work through some techniques that can be put into practice at home, and even shared with your children.
Linda Campbell-Arthur is a Clinical Psychologist and mum of a SEND child, with a special interest in anxiety management in both adults and children. She will be giving strategies on self-care for parents - looking at the typical pitfalls and dilemmas for parents of children with additional needs, and practical tips to put in place.
The session will be physical and interactive.
A free lunch is provided.
Family Matters run workshops and drop-in sessions at the Disability Action & Advice Centre, 4 Waldegrave Road Teddington TW11 8HT every 4th Tuesday of the month from 10am-1.0 except for school holidays.
RUILS staff, including Sian Austin and Linda Campbell-Arthur from Family Matters, Alex Hardy from Independent Support & Sue Robson from the Sitting & Befriending service, are on hand to answer your questions. Family Matters offers 1:1 support for parents and carers of children with extra needs. We can work with you to focus on areas of family life that are causing concern and identify steps to address them. We can provide information, support and advocacy services. If we can’t find an answer, we will find someone who can.
For more information, please contact:
RUILS
Disability Action & Advice Centre (DAAC)
4 Waldegrave Road (A309)
Teddington
TW11 8HT
Tel: 020 8831 6083
E-mail: info@ruils.co.uk
RUILS PAYROLL SERVICES
We are delighted to announce that as from April 2018 Ruils will be expanding its payroll and managed account services.
If you employ a Personal (care) Assistant to support you in your daily life, you may need help to manage their pay and tax.
Using our payroll service means peace of mind for you and your PAs.
We will help you fulfill your legal responsibilities regarding tax and National Insurance payments to HMRC.
We calculate how much to pay your PAs, and how much tax is due.
We provide payslips for each PA monthly and tell you how much to pay them and HMRC.
We keep records of your PAs holiday entitlement and advise you on pensions and other legal responsibilities.
We will also coordinate and submit your end of year summary if required.
All you need to do is let us know the hours worked and rate of pay and we do the rest.
If you’d like to know more, speak to Nisha, our friendly and efficient Payroll Administrator on 020 8831 6412 or Paula on 020 8831 6088 or email payroll@ruils.co.uk
VoiceAbility
Voiceability offer advocacy support. Most of their services are available to those living in Wandsworth, but some services are offered in Hounslow and Merton too.
Call: 0300 330 5499 (Helpline Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm)
Email: imca@voiceability.org
CHALLENGING BEHAVIOUR WORKSHOPS
AfC info for Kingston and Richmond are running some courses which could be useful for our parents:
Are you concerned about your child's behaviour at home? Would you like to talk to a member of our Educational psychology or Emotional Health teams about this?
.
We would like to invite you to one of the following workshops:
For parents of children 8-12 years -
Thursday 12th July, 9.30am – 12.30pm
Moor Lane Centre, Moor Lane, Chessington KT9 2AA
All times are from 9.30 - 12.30 and the courses are free of charge.
To book your place, contact: beth.hitchens@achievingforchildren.org.uk
Also from Achieving for Children:
PARENTING TEENAGERS
Time Out for Teens is a positive parenting course for parents of adolescents from age 11 to 19 and is being held in Whitton on a Monday morning from 9.30 to 11.30 am.
123 MAGIC - ADHD
1-2-3 Magic is also being held in Whitton for parents of children aged 2-12 years diagnosed with ADHD or who display challenging behaviour. Thursdays from 7 to 9pm
To be put on the waiting list for the next courses, please contact:
Karen Williams, Parenting Officer, Achieving for Children
Phone: 020 8547 6965 / 07771974388
ADHD RICHMOND GROUP
ADHD Richmond is a voluntary, independent, non-funded, parent/carer support group for the neuro-developmental condition Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder & all its co-morbidities. Parents and carers from any borough are welcome to attend their seminars.
NEW!
ADHD RICHMOND have just started a YOUTH CLUB
ADHD Richmond Club for those aged 6 - 16.
Open to girls and boys with ADHD or high functioning ASD, across Richmond & Kingston
We already have a computer room, café, pool table, gym, table-tennis & football, games, music & lights
Specialist fitness trainers & sports instructors will offer your choice of work-outs
Get advice & information from trained leaders
Parents can drop-off or stay for their own session, in a private area, & meet ADHD & ASD advisers
Mondays 3.45 — 5.15pm
Whitton Youth Zone, Brittania Lane, Whitton TW2 7JX
Free booking: communications@adhdrichmond.org
ADHD Richmond offers private advice sessions
Valerie Ivens will be offering 1:1 sessions for parent-carers and/or young people who live in the borough of Richmond and are unable to access private support, to have private conversations with Val, who is an ADHD coach with 20 years experience.
Are you struggling to cope with ADHD?
Are you confused about what your next steps should be?
Do you need help to negotiate school?
Would your teen like to talk to someone about ADHD?
Wednesday mornings 10 – 11.30
Wednesday afternoons 12 – 1.30
Book your FREE appointment now by emailing valerieivens@me.com
NEW TO ADHD? POST DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION GROUPS RUN REGULARLY
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD for your child can be a confusing time. What does it mean? Is it my fault? Am I the only person dealing with this? What do I do next and where do I start?
At ADHD Richmond, with the NHS, we have developed a 2 hour information session. It’s part of the post-diagnosis pathway which all carers should attend. You will meet other parents and learn about the diagnosis, treatments, school, the impact, local services and can sign up for behaviour training.
These sessions are for Richmond and Kingston parents.
Email communications@adhdrichmond.org to book a place
The support group for parents and carers of children with ADHD in Richmond and the local area publishes a monthly newsletter with all their activities. It is available here:
ADHD Richmond recently ran a talk on Autism and ADHD with Nicola Ryan.
If you couldn't be there, here is the video and the slides: ADHD & ASD presentation
ADHD Richmond has a new venue: Ham Youth Centre, Ham Close, off Ashburnham Road, Ham, near Richmond TW10 7PL. Free parking in car park and on street.
Places must be booked in advance. Reserve your seats now, email: communciations@adhdrichmond.org
Email: info@adhdrichmond.org
Tel: 020 8943 1161 / 07946 313905
We also have copies of their handbook available on our information table at each Skylarks session. There is a suggested donation of £2 for this handbook, the cost of printing of which was raised by crowdfunding.
NEW!
FAST MINDS
Fastminds is the Kingston ADHD support network. This is an adult group that meet on:
Thursday's 10:30am to 12:30pm
and
every 4th Monday of the month 7:30pm to 9:30pm
at the Kingston Quaker Centre
INFORMATION ON WILLS AND TRUSTS – FROM MENCAP
The charity Mencap arrange seminars on setting up a Will or Trust for parents of children with learning disabilities. These free 2 hour seminars take place around the country and the next London ones are on Monday 12th November 2018 at either 12.30pm or 6.30pm
Contact a Family
Freephone Helpline, 10.00am - 4.00pm Mon-Fri: 0800 808 3555
Do you know how to contact Contact A Family?
You can call the helpline (Monday-Friday, 9.30am-5pm) on 0808 808 3555 and speak to an adviser for further advice. Where necessary we can also try and suggest organisations that provide support in accessing those services.
You can also email our helpline at helpline@cafamily.org.uk or post a message on our Facebook page, and our parent advisers will answer your query.
HOUNSLOW TOY LIBRARY
Do you know about Hounslow Toy Library? You don't have to live in the borough of Hounslow to go there! Just like Skylarks, anyone from anywhere is welcome!
This organisation has a playroom with a wide range of toys, including computers for your children and a seating/chatting area for parents where you can also keep an eye on your children. They also lend toys, games and equipment out for a small fee, so that you can try out different toys and move on to the next stage of development without spending a fortune. Well worth a look.
They are open on Wednesdays from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and Thursdays 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm, so you can go there and come to Skylarks too, without feeling disloyal! Now you only need somewhere to take your children on Mondays! (Now there is the new group, Zakariyah’s Friends on Mondays, see below – Ed)
https://www.facebook.com/Hounslow-Toy-Library-434423676663151/
ZAKARIYAH’S FRIENDS
NEW PLAYGROUP IN HOUNSLOW ON MONDAYS
One of our families has set up a new playgroup for children with additional needs and their families on Mondays in Hounslow.
After school on Mondays from 3 to 6pm at the Hounslow Jamia Masjid Mosque on Wellington Road South, Hounslow TW4 5HU.
You are very welcome to attend with your children. Muslims and non-Muslims welcome.
Arts, crafts, games. Comfortable and safe environment.
Contact 07498 650 283 or 07506038393 for more information
ACTIVITY STATION
Activity Station in Barnes offer activities and a respite service for people with mild/moderate learning disabilities.
In the holidays Activity Station offers a range of activities including a music concert, a creative arts workshop, a dance and drama workshop, gardening workshop and a youth club/disco evening.
Summer sports and Games Wednesday 22nd Aug 10:30-1:00 and 2:00-4:30 £10.00 each or both sessions for £15.00 11 years+
Group walks in Richmond Park 13 Aug and 20 Aug 10:30-12:30 Free
There is also a sensory film screening of “The Incredible Journey: Homeward Bound” on Monday 6th August at 9.45am.
Activity Station also offer a respite service for people with mild/moderate learning disabilities.
For more information and to book please visit www.activitystation.org.uk or call 07974028375.
These activities take place at :
OSO Arts Centre, Barnes Green, London SW13 0LF
21&Co SUPPORTS FAMILIES WHO HAVE CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME
21&Co are based at the Langdon Down Centre in Teddington and their aim is to enhance the lives of children with Down syndrome and their families.
They run a range of activities, including a youth club, so please visit their website for
more information.
For more information, please email tatty@21andco.org.uk
or visit: http://www.21andco.org.uk/
BENEFITS ADVICE FOR RICHMOND AND KINGSTON
KIDS has the local contract to provide the benefits advice service to support families of children and young
people (up to 18 years) to complete the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Personal Independent Payment (PIP)
application forms. This service covers the boroughs of Richmond and Kingston.
Contact: Vilma Watt, Benefits Information Advice and Support Practitioner (Tues, Wed, Thurs)
KIDS
Windham Croft Centre, Windham Road Richmond, TW9 2HP and
Moor Lane Centre, Moor Lane, Chessington, KT9 2AA
Office: 020 8831 6179
KIDS is a registered charity No 275936
You can also get more information from them via their Facebook page
MEDIATION
Did you know that Charley Ripley and the team at KIDS can attend school meetings with you?
KIDS has the contract for Richmond and Kingston to offer support and guidance to parents to have effective interactions with schools.
For more information, please contact:
Charley Ripley
SENDIASS Officer for Richmond and Kingston
Based at The Croft Centre and Moor Lane Centre
Tel: 020 8831 6179
Moore Blatch
The Richmond office of Moore Blatch, holds regular legal clinics offering advice to parents and young people regarding a range of education issues, specifically around Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP) issues.
Each session is 45 minutes, either in person or by phone.
Moore Blatch is committed to supporting the families affected by the SEN process and EHCP queries. The clinics also offer advice on:
School exclusions
School admissions
Discrimination
School transport
Special Educational Needs
First-tier tribunal
Education, Health and Care Needs assessments
Education Health and Care Plans
The Children and Families Act 2014
The next FREE clinic will be on Friday 18th May 2018.
All meetings or calls need to be arranged in advance.
To book an appointment, please click on this link:
INFORMATION FROM CONTACT A FAMILY
Major expansion of Universal Credit
The Universal Credit full service was rolled out to a further 47 jobcentres in May, with further 60 areas planned for June. Visit our Universal Credit webpagefor more information about how Universal Credit is being rolled out and how to make a claim. You can also download our Universal Credit - the essentials factsheet [PDF] or our factsheet on how Universal Credit affects families with disabled children [PDF]. If you are affected by any of these issues and need advice, please get in touch with our helpline.
Increase in Carer’s Allowance earnings limit
Carer's Allowance is the main benefit for carers. However, if you are a working carer, you cannot receive this benefit if your earnings are more than a set amount. This is known as the 'earnings limit' and from April this was increased from £116 to £120 per week. This means that you can work and still get Carer's Allowance so long as you earn no more £120 per week after deductions. For more information about how you qualify for Carer's Allowance and the types of expenses that can be deducted from your earnings, download our free Carer's Allowance factsheet [PDF].
CARER’S CREDIT
Did you know that as a carer of a disabled child you can claim Carer’s Credit?
This is different from Carers Allowance. And you don’t need to apply if you already receive Carer’s Allowance, as you will receive this automatically. You also don’t need to apply if you receive Child Benefit for a child under 12, as you will automatically get credits.
The scheme allows people to take on caring responsibilities without damaging their ability to qualify for a state pension
Carer’s Credit helps fill in the gap in your National Insurance contributions which count towards your state pension.
Your child needs to be receiving Disability Living Allowance at the middle or higher rate of the care component and you need to be a carer for your child for at least 20 hours per week.
You may still be able to receive Carer’s Credit even if you are not eligible for Carer’s Allowance or even if your child does not receive DLA, if a health or social care professional signs your form to say you are a carer.
For more information and to apply, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/carers-credit
SEND Family Voices
SEND Family Voices is the local parent-led forum for parents of children with additional needs in Richmond and Kingston. They ensure that the parent voice is represented to decision makers, offer advice and organise a wide range of workshops and meetings:
Who are SEND Family Voices?
SEND Family Voices are a mix of representatives from parent-led disability specific support groups across Kingston & Richmond, plus individual parents. We are all parent/carers and all give our time on a voluntary basis.
We include representatives from groups that cover Downs Syndrome, Learning Difficulties, Dyslexia, Physical Disabilities, Hearing Impairment, Autism spectrum and its co-morbidities (eg adhd), complex and profound needs. We are pan-disability and seek to work with families whose children are on SEN Support or have Education Health & Care Plans – or who just need a bit of extra help for now.
Our stated purpose…. We bring people together into a community to improve services, share support and strengthen our common voice. By ensuring families are heard, we aim to empower children, young people and their families to obtain the best possible care and services. We work independently from, but in partnership with the providers of children's services.
…and we founded in June 2014. If you would like to know more, and perhaps work more closely with our steering group or Trustees, please contact sendfamilyvoices@outlook.com
And our Film: I Just Want to Be Like Everyone Else
One of our projects from the last eighteen months is a film on ‘reasonable adjustments’, titled I Just Want to Be Like Everyone Else.
This is children and young people in their own words… on what works for them in school… its just under 10 minutes and well worth watching
.”
A SURVEY FROM SEND FAMILY VOICES:
What Matters to You?
We've put together a very short survey asking families about what matters to you... Please take a few minutes to complete our survey.
There are 5 multiple choice questions in total, the first two are mandatory (you have to answer these), the rest are optional. We’d value your comments as well!
SOME INFORMATION ABOUT SOCIAL WORKERS
Who and What is…
…the Disabled Children’s Team & Family Support Workers
Last year, we held two meeting on specialist family support workers and the DCT (= disabled children’s team). We’d like to thank Rhiannon Doyle who so kindly presented and answered family’s questions on these services. Rhiannon’s short presentation on this complex subject can be viewed on our website here: presentation on this complex subject can be viewed on our website here:
What is a Parent Carer Needs Assessment (PCNA)?
Parents and carers have a stand-alone right to assessments and services under the Children and Families Act 2014. This is called a Parent Carer Needs Assessment (PCNA). Very simply, a PCNA is about parents and carer's needs - assessing what parents and carers need to enable them to carry on caring. It is your chance to consider your role as a carer and what help you may need to support you, to maintain your own health, as well as balancing your caring role with other aspects of your life, such as work and family.
The law recognises that parents and carers needs are just as important as a child or young person’s. If a parent or carer’s needs are not met – how can they continue to care for their child or young person?
SEND Family Voices says: “Some while ago, we got very excited by PCNAs. We’d like to know now what your experience of this is… Did you apply for one? Did it meet your expectations?”
Please reply and let us know. E: sendfamilyvoices@outlook.com
A message from SEND Family Voices:
Participation – you can be paid for your time and expenses
It occurred to us that not everyone may realise that for participation and consultation events organised by SEND Family Voices, such as the Educational Psychology Services (EPS) focus groups and CAMHS Chats, parents and carers may claim for their time and expenses.
SEND Family Voices receive funding from the Department of Education to support families to take part (to participate).
This support takes the form of remuneration for your time in meeting, focus groups and consultations plus expenses such as travel and child care. It’s possible to be paid by cheque or in vouchers (we’re not allowed to offer cash). The remuneration rate is £10 per hour and you must provide receipts for expenses. We will have forms to hand at the EPS and CAMHS meetings as detailed in the newsletters.
Additional SEN Places in Kingston and Richmond
The final report from SEND Family Voices, incorporating feedback from both meetings
and any feedback we received through other sources has been sent to AfC The latest
Consultation reports and AfC presentation are on the SFV website here:
Your rights!
School Exclusions and SEND – Young people’s rights and the laws that protect them
This is our (SEND Family Voices) most recent publication. Why? Because recent reports and statistics indicate that children with SEND are much more likely to be excluded than children without SEND.
The law around exclusions can seem complicated and the implications of going along with informal (unlawful) exclusions affect your children’s and young people’s rights. We hope this booklet will give you some clear advice on your children’s rights, the law and some good questions that parents, carers and young people can ask.
“A child must not be excluded because they have additional needs or disability that the school feels unable to meet, or for which they have not provided appropriate support”
Children with medical needs:
What schools and settings need to know
Whilst this booklet is aimed at schools, it’s equally important for families to know what we should expect. The booklet is clear and easy to read. There is a lot of common ground within this booklet to SFV’s booklet on Exclusions and SEND.
NB: In Kingston & Richmond the role of the LA is taken by Achieving for Children
“Local Authorities (LAs) have a statutory duty under section 19 of the Education Act 1996 to provide education for pupils who are excluded, unwell or otherwise. This means that where a child cannot attend school because of health problems, and would not otherwise receive a suitable full-time education, the LA is responsible for arranging provision.”
My Rights Your Responsibility Leaflets
This is newly available as a free on-line training course. A set of modules that you can work through, and pause, at your own pace.
“My Rights, Your Responsibility is a set of information written primarily for parents of disabled children. It provides information to parents on their child's rights to access activities, community facilities and other services.”
SEND Family Voices and AfC – Workshops on behaviour
Are you concerned about your child’s behaviour at home?
Would you like to talk to a member of Achieving for Children’s Educational Psychology or Emotional Health teams about this?
T: 020 8547 6799 (Thursdays only)
Rights in Reality (ie what the law actually does)
by stevebroach - Updated 19 March 2018 - RIGHTSINREALITY
“Thoughts on the crossroads of law, politics and society – for when a tweet isn't enough. This blog contains general information and commentary on legal matters. It is not intended to provide legal advice. This blog discusses the law in England, unless otherwise stated.”
About
“I am a barrister at Monckton Chambers specialising in public law – that is, challenges to state policies and decisions. My background is in policy and campaigning work with and for disabled children and adults and their families. Many of my cases involve the intersection between law, policy and politics.”
Solicitors with expertise in disability and SEN cases
“I am often asked to recommend solicitors for SEN and disability cases. The following is a list of solicitors’ firms with whom I’ve worked and who I know have good expertise in SEN and disability issues. All these firms offer legal aid and will be able to advise disabled people and families about eligibility for public funding. All can help with judicial review cases and most advise and represent people in the First-tier Tribunal (education appeals) and the Court of Protection (Mental Capacity Act cases). However not every firm does every type of case. If in doubt, check the website or call the new enquiries number for the firm to ask. “
CHILDREN’S CENTRES, run by the Local Authority, offer a variety of
services, including:
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY
Free information sessions available to help with
benefits, budgeting and everyday expenses
Ham Children’s Centre has a Strengthening Families
Employment Advisor who can offer professional help and
advice with:
∙ CV building
∙ Effective job searching
∙ Interview skills and tips
∙ Training and education support
∙ Volunteering
∙ Benefit advice
∙ Work placements
For more information, please contact:
Email: northeastrcc@achievingforchildren.org.uk
Ham Children’s Centre Phone: 020 8734 3400
Barnes Children’s Centre Phone: 079 0455 6423
North Barnes Children’s Centre Phone: 020 3021 1990
Express CIC – a service for children with autism
Express CIC is a not-for-profit community organisation supporting young people
with autism and their families. It is based in Surbiton but anyone is welcome to
use their services.
Express CIC have groups for mums, dads, siblings and girls.
Click here to watch Express CIC’s introductory video:
express Support Groups
If you haven't yet been to one of our parent/carer support groups, please do come along. We are all very friendly and these groups are run by and for you. These groups are for whether you are currently going through diagnosis, have just received a diagnosis or have valuable experience to share. We run both daytime and evening groups.
A quick summary of what's on offer at express, all details can be found on our
website www.expresscic.org.uk including referral forms (we accept self-referrals):
Mondays:
Yoga Club for autistic children and young people (referral needed)
Tuesdays:
EHCP, DLA Support by appt.
Counselling by appt. (referral needed)
Siblings Group (referral needed)
Girls Group (referral needed)
Last Tues of the month (term time): Parent Support Group
Wednesdays:
Counselling by appt. (referral needed)
2nd Wed of the month (term time): Dad's Group
3rd Wed of the month (term time): TYA Support Group
Thursdays:
Drama Therapy 1: (referral needed)
Drama Therapy 2: (referral needed)
1st Thurs of the month (term time): Mums Group
Saturdays & Sundays:
Makaton professional courses both Foundation and Enhanced (parents costs are substantially subsidised, registration details at bottom of newsletter)
And of course we are always in the office for 1:1 support or a chat just drop us an email or phone us 0208 390 4273 to let us know you'd like to pop in.
Music Therapy Group
We are running a pilot group for pre-schoolers on the autism spectrum, starting late January. There will be maximum of 4 children in the group (parent attends too).
The group will run Mondays 11.45am -12.30pm at Express.
Spaces are limited so please email info@expresscic.org.uk asap if you are interested. You will need to be able to attend all 5 sessions
Makaton Courses @ Express
Express CIC hosts regular Makaton courses run by Makaton Trainer Fouad
Abbad - contact Fouad for more details and availability on the courses
Professional Training Route
Foundation workshop
Next Course: 15th & 22nd Sept 09.30am-16.00pm
(lots more regular dates coming up please contact fouadabbad@gmail.com)
at express CIC, 452 Ewell Rd, Tolworth, London, KT6 7EL
cost professionals £150, parents £90
includes manuals and pocket guides to sign & symbols (lunch not included)
Express CIC:
The Numbers and Words Club
For many young people the school day can seem full of challenges that they feel unable to tackle and learning can become something to endure rather than enjoy. This can be particularly true in Maths and English where many can quickly come to believe that because they are currently finding learning difficult they are simply not very good at it. As two highly experienced teachers, who have worked for many years in a variety of mainstream and special schools, we have seen how this has a huge impact on young people’s resilience and on their belief in themselves as capable learners. Our Numbers and Words Club offers the opportunity for young people to work collaboratively to develop these essential skills. By working together in small groups we will identify starting points and the reasons why learning may seem to be stuck. The weekly sessions will support the development of problem solving and communication skills and the ability to cope with challenges as we search for answers and learn together. Our work has confirmed our belief in the idea of the capable child ‘who delights in taking responsibility for his or her own learning’ and has consistently shown us the benefits of working in small groups.
The Numbers and Words Club for 7 – 10 year olds will take place:
at the express offices in Tolworth
Mondays 3.30pm – 4.15pm minimum group size 4, maximum group size 8
£10 per session payable in advance directly to the tutors on a half termly basis
If you are interested in this service, please email info@expresscic.org.uk
Please visit their website and social media for more information:
NEW!
GROW FAMILIES
Parenting a sensory child- a course for parents and carers (3-part course)
Does your child have difficulties processing sensory information? Is parenting your sensory child challenging? This is the course for you!
Where:
The Hub, 38 Surbiton Road, KT12HX
Please call Tanya on 07810643470 for the next course
Kingston vineyard is affiliated to Vineyard churches UKI
NEW!
NEW SUPPORT FOR PARENTS AND YOUNGSTERS NEW TO AUTISM
PROJECT FOR AUTISM AT RICHMOND CAMHS
Families with children aged 5-18 in the borough of Richmond who has been diagnosed
with autism within the last year can contact CAMHS to be put on the list for their
next parenting course
For queries, please e-mail Emily Rothon and Sally Evenhuis
Grand Avenue Primary and Nursery School in Surbiton
Runs regular training courses in autism and challenging behaviour for parents
Places cost £10
Please contact the Seminar Facilitator below for more information and an application form.
Name: Jane Pidduck
Email: jpiddu2@grandavenue.kingston.sch.uk
Telephone: 020 8399 5344
Kingston Advocacy (KAG)
KAG is a not-for-profit charity that helps vulnerable people have
a say in decisions that affect them and how they live their lives.
We do this by providing independent advocacy support at no
direct cost to individuals. Advocacy is provided by our specialist
employed staff and trained volunteers. This service is for Kingston
residents only.
Siddeley House
50 Canbury Park Road
Kington KT2 6LX
020 8549 1028
HOUNSLOW PARENT CARERS FORUM
All parent carers of children with disabilities are invited to our monthly Forum meeting. This is a chance to be involved and kept up-to-date with all the services provided for our children and is an opportunity to have your say.
HOUNSLOW PARENT CARERS FORUM
Forum Dates:
20th September 2018
18th October 2018
15th November 2018
13th December 2018
COFFEE MORNING
The next coffee morning will be on Tuesday 17th July 10 - 12
Mimi's Coffee and Dessert Lounge
5- 8 Noble Corner, Great West Road,
Hounslow, Middx TW5 0PA
(Next to where Master Robert Hotel, Great West Road, used to be)
On H91 and H28 bus routes and many from Bell Corner, Hounslow.
All parent carers welcome. This is an informal, social get together
to meet up with other Parent Carers who are going through all the
same things as you and can often offer encouragement and good
advice. Please also come with your issues as the more we know about
what is happening in Hounslow the better the Forum can represent
parent carers.
Friday 7th September 2018
TRANSITION / PREPARING FOR ADULTHOOD
INFORMATION EVENT
ORGANISED BY HOUNSLOW PARENT CARERS FORUM
We are busy organising our next big event. This will be aimed at
young people 14+ and their parent carers. All parent carers worry
about what will happen to their child when they are no longer in
school, or when they finish college. The purpose of the day is to
provide information about the opportunities and options that are
open to our young people and we have invited representatives from
schools, colleges, support organisations and organisations that
provide activities to come and have a stand. We are in West Thames
College again and in the large sports hall and have lots of room for
many different organisations to come. Our last EPOCH event was
spread around the college and this proved very difficult to manage
so please don’t let that put you off as this event will be all in one
place except maybe for refreshments. We will have plenty of helpers
to show you where to go. The date to put in your diary is Friday 7th
September. We will provide more details in future emails
HOUNSLOW PARENT CARERS FORUM
WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP?
The Forum is always looking for people who would be willing to help. The sort of thing we are looking for are people willing to attend meetings as a representative of parent carers and the Parent Carer Forum. At the moment we especially need parents who would be willing to assist in the upcoming Ofsted CQC inspection of provision for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. We intend to provide training to anyone who would like to be involved.
We also need people who are willing to help out at events such as the Epoch event and workshops. If you are attending but would also like to help please let us know.
For more information, please visit:
or
or email Aldona at hounslowpcf@gmail.com
HOME EDUCATION GROUP
We run a home education group for parents/carers who have a child who is not at school for any reason, or are thinking about home schooling. The sessions are held at Skylarks.
Friday 6th July, 10.15am – 12 noon
During these sessions there is also the opportunity for your children to take part in activities organised by Skylarks, such as music therapy, art activities, karate, Kids Cookery School, see Singing Hands or even have their hair cut!
All Friday dates are 10am - 12 and the Tuesday dates are from 2.30 - 4pm. Please email hounslowpcf@gmail.com or contact Aldona on 07881 788483 if you are interested in being a part of this group.
BENEFITS ADVICE FOR HOUNSLOW
Our Barn Carers Project
The Carers Project takes place on Wednesday mornings between 10am and 1pm. The venue is The Bridgelink Centre, Summerwood Road, Isleworth TW7 7QR. (Next to Asda).
They offer support to deal with the emotional impact of being a carer from an accredited counsellor.
They also offer support with form-filling such as DLA and PIP and practical advice from a team of experienced volunteers.
If you need support on a complex matter or have a complicated form to complete such as DLA, please make an appointment by email to community@ourbarn.org.uk or
telephone 030 0777 2800.
Otherwise please just turn up.
HOUNSLOW ASD GROUP
ASD Support Group for Parents and Carers of children with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
We meet at CAMHS in the Heart of Hounslow Building in Bath Road, Hounslow on the 2nd Wednesday of each month between 10-12. (We don’t meet in August or during the Easter holidays).
The next dates will be:
Wednesdays
11th July
12th September
10th October
14th November
12th December
We welcome any parents or carers of children with a diagnosis of ASD, not just those who live in the Borough of Hounslow, although most of our parents are. We start with an informal gathering with tea and coffee and then usually have a speaker on a relevant topic, followed by Q&A and AOB. The group is confidential and very inclusive. The idea is to have a safe space for people to share their experiences and ‘download’ their anxieties and gain support from the other parents in the group. We usually have one or two members of CAMHS staff there including a clinical psychologist.
For more information, please email munkle.jones@btinternet.com or visit their Facebook page: ASD Support Group Hounslow: https://www.facebook.com/groups/440004316039381/
NEW!
Resources for Autism
resourcesforautism.org.uk Tel: 020 8458 3259 Email: admin@resourcesforautism.org.uk
A registered charity based in North London providing practical services and support for adults and children with ASD and their families
Continued Independent Support in Richmond and Kingston
Richmond AID and RUILS have been providing an Independent Support service to families and young people in the borough for the last 4 years. The Independent Supporters are Alex Hardy and Jonathan Rourke.
The programme was funded by the Council for Disabled Children (CDC) initially for the period of the transfer of Statements to Educational Health and Care plans and was therefore due to end in March.
However central government have provided some additional funding to the CDC that means in the short term (until July for now) that the project will continue to be available to support families with;
Issues relating to the transfer between Statement and EHCP.
New requests for an EHCP
Annual review processes
Part of the remit of the new funding is that CDC need to identify ways that support to families will be delivered in the future and how the current IAS service (provided by KIDS in Richmond and Kingston) and Independent Support will work together in future.
If you have any questions or need support with an Education, Health or Care Plan please contact the team at Richmond AID and they will contact you to arrange a visit or meeting.
T: 020 8831 6076
Or Alex Hardy at RUILS
020 8831 6179
INDEPENDENT SUPPORTER FOR HOUNSLOW
You can contact Jonathan Rourke at Richmond Aid for advice, information and support if you have applied for or are considering applying for an EHC Plan or have a Statement of Special Educational Needs that is being reviewed to become an EHC Plan.
Independent Supporters can help young people, children and families by;
Supporting you in understanding the legal framework that underpins the changes.
Preparing for and thinking through with you what the changes mean for your situation.
Preparing for meetings with schools and/or the Local Authority.
Attending meetings with schools and/or the Local Authority to support you in ensuring that your voice is heard.
The Independent Supporter for Hounslow parents is
Jonathan Rourke
020 8831 6076
His working hours are 9-5 Thursday & Friday.
Richmond AID | DAAC | 4 Waldegrave Road | Teddington | TW11 8HT | Advice: 020 8831 6070 | E-mail: advice@richmondaid.org.uk
ALSO
The local authority in Hounslow provide the SENDIASS service and can also advise
onEHC Plans. The contact person is Jo Classick. You can contact her
on 020 8583 2607 if you would like to know more.
Have you read the Code of Practice?
This is a little bit of light reading for when you have
nothing better to do, but is vital as it underpins all
the support our children need in school
CHILDMINDER FINDING SERVICE FROM RUILS
Have you heard of RUILS’ Sitting and Befriending service?
For more information please contact Sue Robson at suerobson@ruils.co.uk or on 020 8831 6413.
PART 3: COUNSELLING
HOUNSLOW YOUTH COUNSELLING SERVICE
Free confidential service for all young people between the ages of 11 and 26 who live, work or study in the borough of Hounslow.
The counsellors work at local secondary schools and 78 St John’s Road Isleworth TW7 6RU (bus numbers H37, 117, 235, 237, 267 and R62).
For more information or to make an appointment, please contact: ask@hycscounselling.co.uk or text 07784481308 or phone 020 8568 1818.
A NEW COUNSELLING SERVICE FROM EXPRESS
Counselling Service for parents/carers of children with special needs
Express CIC have launched a low-cost counselling service to parents and carers of children with autism and additional needs.
As parent/carers, life can be very challenging. It can feel overwhelming trying to manage the needs of your child and balance this with all the other parts of your life; family, work, friends. It is often hard to talk about your feelings with those close to you because you don't want to burden them or it can feel like they won't understand. Parenting a child with additional needs also puts huge pressure on relationships with partners and families that can be difficult to resolve. Counselling can offer a safe space where you can talk through all of your difficulties and anxieties. A counsellor is trained to listen and support you in a non-judgemental way, creating a safe space for you to express your feelings, whatever they may be. By talking, worries and difficulties can often seem clearer and easier to manage.
The counselling sessions will take place at the Express offices in Tolworth by counsellors with knowledge of autism and special needs. There would be a charge for sessions, on a sliding scale (£10- £30 per session) based on ability to pay. This is to cover our costs in delivering the service. We would offer 12 sessions initially, with the possibility of extending this to further sessions, depending on demand.
If you are interested in this service, please email counselling@expresscic.org.uk
MORE COUNSELLING AVAILABLE
Did you know that Ruils has a counselling service for adults? We have a student counsellor offering 3 slots a week – Tuesdays at 5pm and 6pm and Wednesdays at 8.30am.
Our counsellor is practicing integrative counselling - integrative therapy, or integrative counselling, is a combined approach to psychotherapy that brings together different elements of specific therapies - incorporating aspects of theory and practice from three main therapeutic traditions; person-centred, cognitive and psychodynamic. Integrative therapists take the view that there is no single approach that can treat each client in all situations.
Counselling aims to provide a safe space for you to talk, share and explore your feelings in your own time and at your own pace and, of course, it is confidential.
We are offering 12 sessions on a weekly basis. There is some flexibility if you can’t commit to 12 sessions – 9 or 10 would work – or if you need to skip one or two weekly sessions.
If you are interested in taking up our counselling service or you would like to find out more please contact Sue Robson at suerobson@ruils.co.uk or on 020 8831 6413.
We keep a waiting list so if the time slot you would like to attend isn’t currently available we will keep your details and offer it to you as it becomes available.
COUNSELLING FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Relate London SW offers free counselling to children and Young People aged 5-18 years old. Children are entitled to up to 12 sessions 1:1 counselling free of charge if they live or study in the boroughs of Richmond or Kingston under a contract with Achieving for Children. Parents and children can self-refer without going through a GP or other professional. The sessions can take place in Richmond or Kingston.
To make an appointment call:
020 8940 8578
Email: admin@relatelondonsw.org
For more information, please see:
ONE OF THE OTHER CHARITIES CHOSEN BY THE MAYOR OF RICHMOND THIS YEAR OFFERS COUNSELLING FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Off The Record Twickenham
We are a charity that offers:
If you are a young person aged 11 to 24 who lives, studies, or works in Richmond borough, then you can use these free confidential services.
Sexual health walk-in service
Monday
3:30 pm
to
5:30 pm
Counselling and walk-in information
Tuesday
2 pm
to
8 pm
Wednesday
3:30 pm
to
8 pm
Thursday
3:30 pm
to
8 pm
Friday
2:30 pm
to
6:30 pm
Saturday
10 am
to
2 pm
PART 4: JOBS AVAILABLE/WANTED
SITUATIONS VACANT:
NEW!
OCCASIONAL WORK IN SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
Does your child have a fantastic LSA at school who might be interested in a little bit of paid work in the summer holidays? Or a teaching assistant or carer who want to earn a bit more money?
If so, please put them in touch with us!
We need some responsible people to manage and help at our ad hoc events away from our usual venue and out of school time, such as our trips to the Holly Lodge centre in Richmond Park, our events at the Salopian Garden and other future trips.
Please ask them to get in touch with Fiona at info@skylarks.charity
Skylarks Minute Taker Job
WIMBLEDON FAMILY SEEKS NANNY
Wimbledon family (SW20) looking for nanny to assist mom with 6, 5, and 2 year old girls. They are sweet, kind, and happy girls. Assist with day-to-day responsibilities of a busy household. Hours: Mon- Fri 2-8pm. Nanny to collect girls from school, entertain them with activities, prepare meals, bathing, help with homework, reading books and keeping the house tidy. Weekend and late evening work is available. Contact Stephanie via email sblugani@gmail.com. Start date- ASAP. Salary to be discussed.
NEW!
AU-PAIR NEEDED IN TEDDINGTON
A FAMILY IN TEDDINGTON is looking for a live-in au-pair as their current helper is leaving at the end of May. They live in a small flat so can offer bed-sit type accommodation. They have a 2 year old son with autism. Please contact info@skylarks.charity to be put in touch and quote “Flo”.
NEW!
ABA PLAY WORKER NEEDED IN ISLEWORTH
Child-focused play worker for ABA therapy needed in Isleworth
A lovely family are looking for someone to work with their wonderful 5 year old son who has ASD (verbal) on a part time ABA programme. We are seeking a person who has experience working with special needs children, is willing to learn, enthusiastic, reliable and an excellent team player.
We are looking for Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays (4.30pm to 6.30pm) and Saturdays and Sundays (3.00pm to 5.00pm).
The programme is overseen and supervised by an experienced Consultant Behaviour Analyst. .A two day training course and workshop will be provided.
We are located in Isleworth, 15 minutes’ walk from Hounslow overground station and 15 min bus ride from Hounslow central station.
If you are interested, please email on joyiii82@gmail.com
MOTHER’S HELP/COOK NEEDED IN STRAWBERRY HILL
Job Available, Mother’s Help/ Cook
> Hours 12:15 to 7:15 Strawberry Hill, Monday to Friday
> Pay: depends on experience, £10-12 net per hour
>
> We are a warm, friendly, informal family looking for a kind, experienced helper to help with a variety of jobs in the home, the core tasks being cooking, pet care and light household tasks. You must be very flexible and have experience of family cooking and be able to cook to recipes and follow dietary requirements.
We are a family where three of us have medical conditions and are mainly housebound.
For more details please e mail :bridget@bandura.co.uk, and I can send more details and arrange a phone interview in the first instance.
AND
Skylarks PARENTS OFFERING AVAILABILILITY TO WORK
LOCAL TUTOR
Does your child need help with English?
Qualified Secondary English teacher
Primary & secondary pupil experience
Tutoring primary pupils for 11+ exams
Secondary GCSE and A-level pupils
Special needs experience
Available to tutor at your home on Saturdays.
Contact: Louise 07720 288409
Qualifications, experience and references available on request.
A Skylarks PARENT LOOKING FOR A NEW JOB
One of our mature mothers who has had a successful career in corporate company secretariat, legal, administration, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, retail operations and property within the retail and pharmaceutical industries, is looking for home based or local opportunities on either a part-time or project work basis. She has a versatile background in facilitating multi-agency collaboration and has built and led teams through challenging periods of change in ownership and restructure of the businesses. She is very commercially focused with strong communication skills and has the ability to deal with various challenging projects on an international level.
Recently, she has also been working as a Panel Member with a nationwide Fostering & Adoption company and would be happy to be considered for the role of a Panel Member within different organisations. She is passionate about sharing best practices to promote the welfare, safety, educational achievement and individual needs of looked after children and helps carers to navigate life to ensure building a sense of safety, value and worth for themselves and the children in their care.
She volunteers as a Lead Parent for one of the world’s best Children Hospitals in the world and represents them at various conferences and seminars internationally.
Any help required with Personal Assistant services would also be considered.
Available on an hourly (minimum 4 hours) or day rate basis depending on the role.
For further details or Contact: Ana on 07481 070101
PART 5: RESEARCH
TranseND study: Transition in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Moving from primary to secondary school raises a number of challenges for children. This may be particularly true for pupils with neurodevelopmental disorders who have to deal with additional changes in the structure and quantity of additional support they are receiving in school. This study by research students in the Psychology Department at Kingston University will examine factors that influence a successful school transition for children with neurodevelopmental disorders but also to explore the views of their parents and teachers. This will also help us to identify examples of good practice to create informed guidelines for transition plans to be included in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
We are currently recruiting children Down syndrome, Williams syndrome and ASD and their parents who will start secondary school in September 2018.
Aims of study
This study examines transition from primary to secondary school in children with
neurodevelopmental disorders. Comparisons between Autism, Williams syndrome, and Down
syndrome allow insight into the unique and shared challenges and opportunities in relation
to children’s transitions.
Why is this important?
Using a novel approach by triangulating the views from parents, professionals, as well as children’s
own voices, their cognitive abilities, and mental health outcomes, this study allows for the
development of informed guidelines to support school transitions in these populations.
Who can take part in this study?
Children with Autism, Williams syndrome or Down syndrome (as well as their parents, and their
professionals) who are currently in their final year at primary school and move to a new secondary
school in September 2018
What does taking part entail?
Children will take part in two online assessments and a short online interview (in Spring 2018 and
again in Autumn 2018). Parents and professionals are asked to complete some questionnaires and to
take part in a short interview.
Who to contact?
Maria Ashworth: m.ashworth@kingston.ac.uk
ADAPTED CLOTHING RESEARCH
We are final year undergraduate students at Northumbria University
conducting research into effective communication platforms to raise awareness of the adapted clothing market for people with complex needs and disabilities.
Thank you for taking the time to complete our short questionnaire – it should take you no longer than 5 minutes.
Here is the link: https://nbsnu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_01BEIp67MUBxOBv
PART 6: GENERAL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS
Charities and Grants to support families
This is a list of organisations that offer grants or funding to families that can be used towards short breaks, equipment and other things. Each charity has its own criteria, so please check the list carefully to see if there is one that meet’s your family’s needs and circumstances:
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
The father of one of our children is running the British10K in London on Sunday 15th July to raise funds for Small Steps and would appreciate any support. Good luck Ashley!
new!
Special needs haircutting
If you can’t make it to the hairdressing sessions at Skylarks, then there is another option:
Gina Selby
Kingston Hill
Kingston upon Thames
KT2 7LX
Can also do home visits
07970 833652
WORKING WITH CARERS, CARERS TRUST
SUPPORT FOR CARERS TO MOVE INTO EMPLOYMENT
Working for Carers is a London-wide project that supports unpaid carers, aged 25 or over, to move closer to employment. The project is led by Carers Trust and delivered by its network of 24 partners across London, and is jointly funded by the Big Lottery Fund and European Social Fund.
Our aims are:
Support carers to pursue their employment goals through confidence building and skills development.
Offer a flexible service that considers individual needs and ambitions.
Engage with local businesses and organisations to create employment, training and volunteering opportunities for carers.
Highlight the benefits of employing carers, adopting carer friendly policies, and understanding the needs of carers in the workplace.
Carers can access free support, designed to meet their individual needs and delivered in their local area. This may include:
One-to-one support and advice with a dedicated Employment Personal Advisor
Group activities and training workshops
Support with writing CVs and interview techniques
Help with job-searching
Access to employment, volunteering and training opportunities
Eligible criteria:
Unpaid carer or former carer
aged 25 and over
living in London
not in any paid work
To find out more about this free service:
For carers in Camden, Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, Sutton, Wandsworth or Westminster:
Tel: 020 7428 8950 Email: wfc@camdencarers.org.uk
Do you know about the Buddy Up scheme?
RICHMOND AID’S BUDDY UP SCHEME FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN RICHMOND AND KINGSTON
BuddyUp supports young disabled people between 14-18 years old and help them to get out and access a range of different social / leisure activities of their choosing. We train up volunteers who may be studying Social Care / Psychology, or just have a keen interest in the area. I shadow initial sessions until young people, families and volunteer buddy all happy to proceed for more regular independent buddy sessions. Aside from the 1-1 buddy sessions we also frequently put together small groups of young people with a shared interest; be it cinema trips or playing pool or anything that we can suitably arrange!
We get positive feedback about BuddyUp. Here’s a recent quote from a parent to help back that up.
“This service has been very helpful to both my disabled children over the years. They are very supportive and helpful and always manage to put in extra hours to accommodate clients. Buddies also provide friends something both my disabled children lack. This service is very valued and should be kept to support children and young adults.”
For more information, please contact:
info:richmondaid.org.uk
Tel: 020 8831 6079
DADS GROUP
CREATING A SUPPORT NETWORK FOR DADS
The Emotional Health Service and Family Support
Service are running an informal, drop-in group to
support dads in their role as a parent or carer of a
child with a disability.
Thursday 12th July
Monday 10th September
6pm – 7.30pm
Heatham House, a short walk from Twickenham station
For more information please contact Brett Garcia
Integrated Services for Children with Disabilities
E: brett.garcia@achievingforchildren.org.uk
ONLINE TRAINING IN UNDERSTANDING AUTISM
FUTURE LEARN OFFERS FREE ONLINE COURSES, WITH THE OPTION TO UPGRADE TO A PAYING COURSE IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE A CERTIFICATE
They are offering a course in Understanding Autism developed by the University of Kent:
This event has been recommended to us:
RAISING THE BAR
NATIONAL PMLD CONFERENCE
FRIDAY 2ND NOVEMBER
BIRMINGHAM
£50 per parent, £100 for professionals
INTRODUCTION TO CHARITY FOR HIGH FUNCTIONING CHILDREN: PPUK
This is for anyone who has a child or children who are high functioning , with or without disability (gifted and talented). This is a very knowledgeable charity that has been going for 50 years. The website has a lot of advice and there are advisors that you can call. See website for more details:
SIBS
The charity Sibs supports siblings of those with additional needs.
DISABILITY IDENTIFICATION CARD
A Skylarks parent has recommended the Disability Identification Card, which is an easy way to let others know your child has a disability and may need extra consideration and/or support. It saves having to carry around paperwork and has minimal information, namely stating it is a Disability ID, with a photo of the individual, his/her name and expiry date. This is a national scheme and costs £10 for a year. For further info please see the following website: http://www.did-card.co.uk/index.php
Introducing The Benefits Training Co - Experts in disability benefits, tax credits and other benefits
PIP worries? Talk to the experts online
The disability charity Scope has an online community which has recently seen many posts relating to PIP and other benefits. So to help parents get through their benefits challenges they’ve teamed up with experts The Benefits Training Co., who are now answering queries in Scope’s dedicated ‘Ask a benefits advisor’ section.
You can also phone their helpline on 0808 800 3333 Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
SOME OF OUR FAMILIES HAVE TAKEN PART IN TUI NA MASSAGE THERAPY COURSES WITH LEONID. YOU MAY BE PLEASED TO HEAR THAT A DVD IS NOW AVAILABLE TO BUY:
"Tui Na for Autism " DVD and course book NOW available to purchase via Paypal.
"Tui Na for Autism " massage treatment that is now available for parents and professionals to buy due to high demand and incapacity to attend one of our courses.
The DVD shows a specific, step by step programme on how to massage your child and help relieve most of the symptoms related to ASD.
To accompany the DVD there is a course book which explains in detail the steps of massage, with the indications and actions. The script also indicates the correct point location, pressure and frequency required to maximize the benefits that this unique treatment can offer to your child.
The DVD is available to purchase via Paypal following the link below and will be sent by special delivery in UK or "tracked and sign” for international post.
The course book will be send to your e mail as a PDF file once funds are received.
If you have any queries, please message Tui Na Centre.
There is a short sample video on the Facebook page:
CARERS AND TECHNOLOGY GUIDE
Richmond Carers Centre has produced a Caring and Technology Guide to help carers to think about how technology could help them and how to access it.
Please read the article on their website for ideas of technology that could help and organisations that can provide funding:
7. Young adults
NEW!
NEW COLLEGE IN HOUNSLOW
Great Oaks College is opening in September 2018 in a purpose built building on our new site at Gresham Road, Hounslow offering a range of Further Education opportunities to young people aged 19-25 with moderate, severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties, including autistic students.
They will offer vocational, educational, sensory and sports facilities and education, supported by a range of therapists and health professionals.
For more information, please visit: https://www.oaklands.hounslow.sch.uk/page/?title=Great+Oaks+College&pid=199
NEW!
YMCA Inclusive Lives Project
www. ymcalsw.org Tel: 07587 034278 Hayley Turner Email: Hayleyturner@ymcalsw.org
YMCA London South West, through their Inclusive Lives Project, offer a range of health and wellbeing activities for people with disabilities including dance, tennis and supported gym sessions. Venues include Wimbledon, Kingston and Hampton. The project has included other opportunities such as an Employment and Life Skills Workshop in cooperation with Richmond Adult Community College
DRAMATIZE
PHYSICAL THEATRE AND MOVEMENT WORKSHOPS
Fun theatrical workshops, exploring methods of physical theatre and movement through games and exercises, to promote inner confidence and improve physical fitness.
Every Thursday, 5-6pm, term time only, at The Exchange, Twickenham
This workshop is aimed for adults aged 16+. The first session is free and then £10 per session.
It is aimed at adults with learning disabilities, but those with other additional needs are welcome.
To find out more and book a free taster session, please contact:
07785 18 77 48
True Access
True Access runs a variety of social activities for young adults with disabilities aged 18 and above.
For more information contact:
Winnie Danmole
07946 897 995
OUR BARN YOUTH CLUB
Our Barn is a youth club in Isleworth for young people with additional needs aged 16 to 25. It is open every Sunday from 3-6pm except for during the summer holidays.
Upcoming dates at Our Barn:
Friday 15th June - Football Tournament at goals in Osterley. Contact david@ourbarn.org.uk if you have a team or would like to take part.
Wednesday 27th June - Carer's Self-Care Day
From 10am to 2:30pm, Isleworth Public Hall. For unpaid family carers. A programme of activities: stress-busting for carers; a creative mosaic workshop (limited spaces); lunch; and, group singing led by Vocal Tonix. Contact karen@ourbarn.org.uk for more information.
Sunday 8th July – BarnFest. Our festival in a day. Music, food, good company.
Sunday 15th July – BBQ at Jubilee Lodge in the grounds of Osterley Park. Come and see what we do at our gardening project.
For more information, visit https://www.ourbarn.org.uk/ or email community@ourbarn.org or phone 0300 777 2800.
They also offer Gardening for young people aged 16-25 with autism or learning difficulties and their carers. This are free of charge. For more information, please contact Judith Sheppard on 0300 777 2800 or email judith@ourbarn.org.uk