Families’ autism support group celebrates 10th anniversary.
An autism support group in Easter Ross that support families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder recently celebrated its 10th Anniversary on 17th March.
Over 40 people including children from the past and present as well as parents attended “The Saturday Group” celebrations at the Isobel Rhind Centre in Invergordon. Everyone had a great time catching up with one another.
Supported by NHS Highland and The Highland Council, The Saturday Group was formed in March 2002 as a result of Social Worker, Anne Kyle, having spent many months getting to know the children and families. In her role as Social Worker for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Anne was keen to provide a service that met the needs of local families. The children had stated that they wanted a ‘club’ where they could be with other children as they had experienced difficulty accessing other clubs. Anne handed over the running of the group to Linda Muir in 2007 and there is now a dedicated team of 10 where three staff members have worked at the group since the beginning.
Initially The Saturday Group was designed to encourage children to develop social skills in a formal planned environment and gradually the young people involved asked for the group to be their group as they did not want a formal setting. They chose to rename it to ‘The Saturday Group’ and it is, with support, child-led including enabling children to decide the rules. There is no pressure on the children to do things and they choose their own activities.
One parent has stated that the “group has kept her sane”. Someone else said “the group is unique as it is child led and it works”. Another has stated “how successful and life changing the Saturday Group has been for her child”. Prior to attending the group her child had “no social contact with peers and could not cope in any type of situations that required social interaction skills.” She states: “that her child has a social life, friends and is able to interact, all due to the group.”
All those involved are keen to see the group continue to grow and develop - with suggestions such as a drop in room for the older age group where they can listen to music, just chat or help with newsletters. The children and young people have given their views as to the future of this group as a resounding ‘YES’.
We are also keen to support some form of small group sessions supporting the young person to develop their identity and place within family, school etc. If you have any views about this please contact Alan Richards, Highland Council’s Team Manager Children's Disability Service on 01349 861508
Families linked to this project have found the ‘Parents Group’ extremely useful, as they have been able to meet and share successes and failures. They have been a great support to one another and it is particularly helpful to parents whose child has been newly diagnosed. The group ended when their children moved on and consideration is being given as to how to resume this - if you would like more information on this please contact Jackie Ross, Highland Council’s Senior Community Children's Worker on 01349 861508.
The Saturday Group runs every second Saturday between 9 30am and 2 30pm and it is based in the Isobel Rhind Centre, Invergordon. For more information contact Alan Richards 01349 861508