According to the Ambitious About Autism website, one in a hundred people are on the autism spectrum in the UK, enough to fill Wembley Stadium nearly eight times over! In 2019, it was the fastest-growing need type in Kent, UK.
Autism is a lifelong condition. It cannot be “treated” or “cured”. Many on the spectrum find this idea as offensive as being autistic is part of their identity, who they are, and their personality.
There is no specific identified cause for autism. However, researchers believe it is likely to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors which can interrupt the development of the brain and central nervous system.
Autism is a spectrum condition. Every individual is unique and it is important to understand that being autistic affects people in different ways.
The above wording is all taken from the wonderful people at The Autism Apprentice CIC. Through the Covid-19 pandemic, they have continued to work remotely, giving much-needed, free support and advice to families with children who have autism.
Sarah & Donna, who are The Autism Apprentice, are both parents of children with additional needs. This means they have lived experience through most processes. They offer services within Education (including help with Ehcp application), Family Support, Workplace advice, and, a consultancy service. They provide strategies around challenging behaviour, anxiety, sleep, school refusal, etc. You can find them on Facebook where they are advertising, a Swale parents online meet up:
If you’d like to find out more or book a space, please contact: info@autismapprentice.co.uk or call 0300 011 0300
At BCIC we believe everyone can make a contribution to society, no matter their ability or background. Each person is of value. At Craftworks, we provide a practical learning experience aimed to enhance skills, provide qualifications, and equip young people for a positive next step into adulthood. As part of this, we take care to work with students who have Education and Health Care plans, providing TA’s, SENCO and tailored work plans.
As part of our youth work, we have a Monday Night Club which is exclusive to young people with an Ehcp. Before the pandemic, we ran two Cooking Up Ideas clubs (in Ashford and in Faversham), which we can’t wait to get started up again. These clubs offer young people a fabulous opportunity to learn about different foods and cook a meal together. It is a fun, interactive club that helps to develop social and independent skills.
We also offer our Learnabout Participants (adults with learning needs) work experience within our social business. This could be working with Jason in our Pruning Time gardening business, or as part of our Café and delivery service team in Ashford.
