Linkup February 13 - Leicestershire Autistic Society

The newsletter of the Leicestershire Autistic Society,
Charity no. 507300
Issue No. 120 of the Leicestershire Autistic Society - February 2013
Link~Up
Contents page
Autism Month 2
Autism Information Hub 3
LAS Membership 4/5
Family Rights Project Workshops for Parents 6
100 Club 7
Fundraising 9
Person Centred Support 10
Monday Club 12
New School 13
Housemates 14
Miracles to Believe In trips 16-19
Face to Face 20
Embrace Arts 22 & 25
Leicestershire Autism Outreach Service 23-25
MAC 26
Sibs 33
Jigsaw & Translate 37
Helpline and other useful numbers 38-40
LAS Website at www.leicestershireautism.org.uk
Email: leicestershireautisticsociety@gmail.com

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AUTISM MONTH – April 2013
Just a quick reminder that now is the time to prepare for April’s
Autism Month. If you are going to have a bake/cake/book/car boot
sale, or other fundraising and awareness event, please contact
me asap so that I can get leaflets and info out to you.
We are looking for volunteers to help at a Used Children’s Toy,
Clothing and Book Sale to be held in April at a Venue yet to be
confirmed. If you know of any no cost, or low cost venues please
contact me asap. If you are able to donate items for the sale,
please contact me so that we can arrange drop off or collection.
LOUGHBOROUGH SUPPORT GROUP
New Leader Required!
Jenny Cornwell
We are a group of parents who meet on the last Monday of the month at
John Storer House, Wards End. Loughborough, Leicestershire, LE11
3HA at 7.30pm. We are a small friendly group who meet up for tea and
coffee (lots of it!), a chat and speakers.
Dates
25th February 2013 Ruth Howard NAS Family Rights Project
25th March 2013 Speaker to be confirmed
After many years of running the Loughborough Support Group, I had to
announce at our January meeting that I would be standing down in
March. Many years ago I took over after Sue Harrison wanted to step
down, despite not at the time going to the Group that was then running!
Is there anyone out there who would like to step into my shoes and take
over the running of the Group. The LAS will pay expenses, room hire
etc. It may be that you would like to run a Group from a different location
(many of our parents are from Ashby for example) - again we (the LAS)
can help and support you
Please contact Carole Heubeck on 01530 244790 to discuss

NEW AUTISM INFORMATION HUB TO LAUNCH
IN LEICESTERSHIRE IN SPRING 2013
Leicestershire County Council working with the National Autistic Society
and other local organisations, including the Monday Club and the Leicestershire
Autistic Society is launching a new service for adults with Autistic
Spectrum Conditions, their parents, carers and families. The Hub will
have two functions:
An Information Service: this will be available via telephone and e-mail,
Monday to Friday every week, 9am – 6pm (excluding Bank holidays).
Two dedicated members of staff will deliver the service, providing a comprehensive,
online information resource giving information on services
across Leicestershire, for adults with Autistic Spectrum Conditions. The
database will be regularly maintained and updated and include information
from Leicestershire County Council, local voluntary organisations,
the Health sector and national organisations and charities.
Promotion of Autism Awareness: the Hub team will also work with local
employers to promote autism awareness and provide autism training
for employers and organisations in Leicestershire to improve opportunities
for adults with Autistic Spectrum Conditions.
The Hub Team
We are seeking to recruit the Hub team who should ideally have a
background in information provision and an excellent understanding of
autistic spectrum conditions. We have 2 posts:
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a full-time Information Manager, responsible for delivering the service
and maintaining the information resources and,
a part-time Employment Support Co-ordinator who will assist with the
information service but also focus on the promotion of autism
awareness for local employers and organisations.
Advertisements will be placed shortly, locally and nationally, but if anyone
would like further information, at this stage, please e-mail:
wendy.small@nas.org.uk

Toileting Issues
Some parents have mentioned at some of the support
groups I attend around the City and County the toileting
issues their children with a diagnosis of ASD and a
Statement of Special Educational Needs, who are in
mainstream schooling, are facing. Parent/carers indicated that although
the child is potty trained, they still find difficulty with personal care in the
toilet, and despite it noted in their SEN, schools are not helping the child,
thus causing an array of problems related to the soiling of clothes
(bullying, name-calling, physical problems in girls, etc). I would agree
with school policy that physically & literally helping the child can be a
safeguarding issue, but what parents are asking is for assessment or advice
from the OT service or other services and the school on how to help
the children with the actual actions while at school and at home. Parents
just want to work in partnership with the schools, to maintain continuity
for the child.
Does anyone have or have had this problem with their child? Do you
have any hints, tips on how to help these parent carers with this situation?
Any ideas on what can be done at home to help teach the child?
Please contact me, and I will pass on your ideas to these parent carers.
Jenny Cornwell
Receiving this copy of LinkUp - time to renew your membership of the
Leicestershire Autistic Society?
We send out LinkUp 4 times a year which now costs £2.00 in postage to
every household. Together with the cost of printing and envelopes this
will amount to the £5 it costs to be a member of the Leicestershire Autistic
Society.
We can also offer you the opportunity to just receive LinkUp by email
instead of, or as well as, a hard copy.
Email heubeck111@btinternet.com to request your electronic copy.
As well as LinkUp we also provide a family support worker, support
groups and both a children's and adults directory.
Our membership form is on page 5 opposite - please fill it in and return
to our membership secretary now - thank you for reading this.
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Las Membership April 2013-March 2014
I would like to receive LinkUp and become a member of
the LAS and enclose a
£5 (families)
or £7 (Professionals)
cheque or postal order made payable to the Leicestershire
Autistic Society.
Name...................................................................
Address: ...............................................................
...............................................................................
..............................................................................
Post Code:..................Email .....................................
Telephone(s):................................................................
Parent/Professional (please delete what is not applicable ).
Name of Child/person with
ASD....................................
Age...............
Gift Aid Please tick if a tax payer so we can reclaim the tax you
have already paid tax on
Please send the application form along with your £5 cheque or
postal order to the
Lindy Hardcastle Membership Secretary
31 Flaxfield Close , Groby , Leicester, LE6 0EZ

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Workshops for Parent/Carers
and extended family members
The Family Rights Project is a Department for Education-funded project
for parents/carers of a child with an autism spectrum disorder, delivered
by The National Autistic Society.
They will provide training days for parent/carers across England that
provide accurate information about you and your child's rights and entitlements
in three key areas:
• Education
• Welfare (benefits)
• Community care
The project also helps parent/carers to utilise the information about their
rights and entitlements to their best advantage, by starting to develop
goals and plans within the sessions. You'll get an information pack to
take away, and you'll also receive updated information as and when
changes to legislation and guidance are introduced which may affect
your rights and entitlements.
Everyone would be welcome, but pre-registration is necessary.
Dates are:
Saturday, 23rd February - 9.30am-1.30pm incl lunch- Wigston (Venue
to be confirmed)
Tuesday, 5th March - 10am-2.30pm incl lunch- Loughborough (Venue
to be confirmed)
Thurs 7th March - 10am-2:30pm incl lunch @ BW2 (Birchwood Special
School-upper school building), Burton Road, Melton Mowbray, LE13
1DR
:
Please contact Jenny Cornwell to register for the daytime sessions
- 07786 626 426

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Leicestershire Autistic Society
100 Club 2012-13
Please register me as a member of the 100 Club from April
2013 - March 2014 and enter me in the monthly cash prize
draw.
Name: …………………………………………………………………….
Address: …………………………………………………………………
Telephone: ………………….E-mail: ………………………………….
I enclose a cheque for £12 payable to the Leicestershire Autistic Society
Signed: …………………………………. Date: ………………………
Return to Lindy Hardcastle 31 Flaxfield Close Groby LE6 0EZ
Join the 100 Club!
The 100 Club, launched seven years ago, has been a great success,
providing a steady income for the Leicestershire Autistic Society. As I
am sure you all know, we are totally dependant on fundraising and donations
for our income and we greatly value the support of our members.
The 100 Club works like this: we ask members to pay £12 a year and a
winning number is drawn each month. The lucky winner receives half
that month’s subscriptions and the other half goes to the LAS – so the
more members we have, the bigger the prize and the bigger the Society’s
share.
For new members, there is an application form above with this copy of
Link-Up. !
Please only use this form if you are a new member of the 100 Club
or if you wish to purchase a second number. Existing members
should use the tear-off slip from their renewal letter.
Lindy Hardcastle
Congratulations
to Jane Burnsall, who is the 100 Club winner in January!

ARE YOU CONFIDENT THAT YOUR CHILDREN ARE SAFE AND
HAPPY IN SCHOOL? HOW SURE ARE YOU THAT THEY ARE NOT
BEING ABUSED VERBALLY,PHYSICALLY OR EMOTIONALLY?
Every school morning our daughter walks over to her bus and happily (or
otherwise, depending on her mood) and gets on, knowing she’s going off
to her special school. For the next 7 hours or so, I have just entrusted
our child to the bus driver, escort and school staff.
In the past few months, I have been informed of incidents occurring in
some schools, special schools, and playschemes in Leicestershire. It
has been reported that staff have verbally mistreated children in their
care. I was shocked to hear these reports, and am concerned about the
possibility of other incidents which haven’t been reported. As a parent, I
respect the staff at my daughter’s special school, and I know most parents
respect their children’s teaching staff too. We appreciate the work
involved in teaching and caring for our children, and we assume that all
staff are properly trained to work with all children, including children with
special needs.
There is NO acceptable reason where a child in these settings should be
subjected to any abuse, verbal or other. Children who exhibit challenging
behaviours should not be seen in a negative way. These behaviours can
be reduced or even eliminated, with the proper support of trained staff
and service providers. These children should not be viewed as malicious,
“uncontrollable” or naughty.
Not too long ago I heard in the news about controversy around using
CCTV in schools, and that this country was becoming into a “big brother
is watching”. My personal opinion: If there is nothing to hide, and you are
doing your absolute best, then why worry? I am truly concerned
Jenny Cornwell
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Wish to put something into the LinkUp?
Email us at heubeck111@btinternet.com
Remember that this Magazine belongs to you and that the articles and
information in it need to be provided by you. Please send copy by Mid
May 2013.
The next issue being in June 2013. If you are not yet on our mailing list -
please contact either myself, or Lindy Hardcastle Please note that we
NEVER give this information out to anyone else
Carole Heubeck, Editor.

SLIMMING WORLD COLLECTION BOXES (CLIVE MORGAN'S
GROUPS)
September 2012(2nd box) £91.62 (which included another clothes swop)
October 2012 £49.12
November 2012 £54.45
December 2012. £41.49
Clive's personal donation £10.00 (instead of sending Xmas cards)
GRAND TOTAL FOR THE YEAR £ 596.48!!!!
Once again a huge Thank you to Clive and all his members for donating
their 5ps each week from weekly meeting costs.
What a fantastic amount you have raised for us in a year.
Please keep supporting us we need all the help we can get.
PS DO YOU GO TO A WEEKLY SLIMMING CLUB OR SPORTS
GROUP ? Why not ask them to do the same for the LAS and we can get
you an official collection box. Jackie Hough
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NEW for 2013 !
“DESIGN AN LAS CHRISTMAS CARD” COMPETITION
As part of a fundraising idea, we would like to hold an
LAS Christmas Card Design competition. This year, the
LAS would like to sell their own Christmas Cards as a
fundraiser. We will print the 5 winning Christmas designs
done by our own loved ones who have a diagnosis of
ASD/Aspergers, and have them ready for all of us to sell
(and buy) from October-December. If you, your child, a
friend or family member who has ASD are/is interested
and would like to submit a Christmassy design, please
contact me at 07775 777 524,or email:
cornwells@hotmail.co.uk. There will be a prize given to
each of the 5 winning designs. The deadline for submissions
is 1 st May, 2013.
Jenny Cornwell-Fundraising Coordinator

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PERSON CENTRED SUPPORT
There’s no challenging behaviour here.....
The term “challenging behaviour” is used as a way of focusing our attention
on what the behaviour is telling us, and as a means of us finding out
what the individual is trying to communicate, rather than labelling the person
as the problem
When we think about challenging behaviour and the people we support
we generally understand this to include:
• Aggression e.g. hitting, biting, screaming, swearing
• Self - injurious behaviour e.g. head banging, eating inedible objects,
hitting face or head
• Damage to property e.g. Throwing furniture , breaking windows
• Socially inappropriate behaviour e.g. stripping, urinating, masturbating
But we often fail to recognise that it also includes other behaviours
which stop, or make it very difficult for, the person to be involved in
ordinary activities and relationships at home and in the community
such as:
• Self stimulatory behaviours e.g. finger-flicking, teeth-grinding,
humming
• Stereotyped or ritualistic behaviours e.g. body-rocking, arm flapping,
repetitive speech
• Obsessive behaviour e.g. putting together or taking apart objects,
lining things up, positioning furniture and doors, checking light
switches
• Withdrawn behaviour e.g. pulling clothing over head or eyes, fingers
in ears, closing eyes, routinely sitting or standing away from
other people
• Refusal or avoidance e.g. automatically saying no to requests or
suggestions, avoiding opportunities to interact with others or participate
in activities
Recognising these behaviours as challenging prompts us to try and understand
why the person behaves the way they do and places the responsibility
on us to find constructive responses and solutions, as illustrated
with the following example:
Jane *(not her real name)
Jane is a happy, fun loving and trusting person in their 20’s who attends
a Community Support Service. Jane loves to greet people when they

arrive by giving them a bear hug. These interactions get very noisy and
disrupt the activities. Because the Service is very busy this becomes
very difficult for everyone to deal with, especially as Jane doesn’t respond
to suggestions about calming things down.
The team used assessment tools from Positive Behaviour Support
(particularly direct observation) to help them understand what was going
on. They established that the bear-hugging behaviour had the effect for
Jane of gaining and maintaining interactions, but they also found variations
in how much it happened in different circumstances - information
which they used to develop the intervention.
The intervention stressed that the role staff had in managing the noise
levels in the service - by greeting Jane promptly but in a measured and
calm way and in using distraction and preferred activities, helped her
manage her levels of excitement. These approaches were carried out
across a range of proactive and reactive strategies.
As a result, Jane is much more focused on the activity she’s engaged in
and less distractible - resulting in her being able to do some things on her
own that previously she could only have completed with support. She
always knows when people have come in and always greets them, but
this no longer creates disruption for her or for anyone else.
Her local Area Manager observed: “Staff didn't recognise Jane’s behaviour
as challenging because it was so positive in intent - she just wanted
to greet you and have fun with you. But the consequences for Jane and
other people who use the Service were becoming severe and could have
led to Jane not being able to attend. By seeing the behaviour as challenging
and not “just the way Jane is” and looking closely at what factors
affected the behaviour, the Service was able to change the ways Jane is
supported.
Thank you to Jackie Hough for this.
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LAS AGM and Conference
The LAS AGM will be coming up shortly and we will advertise it in the
next LinkUp. If you are interested in joining the Committee (we only meet
up a few times a year) or would like to get involved in some way with us
such as fund raising etc please contact Jenny our vice chair for more information
- contact details on page 40.

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Registered Charity No. 1126179
Limited Company No. 6384957
Job Vacancy
Group Development Project Coordinator
The Monday Club provides social support services to
adults with Asperger Syndrome in Leicester and Leicestershire
to provide individuals with the condition the opportunity
to meet others like themselves, to take part in
normal activities, access the wider community and to develop
their individual potential. The Monday Club is recognised
as a National example of Service Excellence and
is quoted as such in the National Autistic Society document
Taking Responsibility, Good Practice guidelines for
local services on how to help adults with As.
We require a member of staff to develop and facilitate
a c t i v i t i e s f o r o u r W e d n e s d a y G r o u p
Meeting and coordinate our growing bank of volunteers
in conjunction with the project manager. The Wednesday
Group is an extension of the service we provide on the
Monday evening and is aimed at providing more challenging
activities for our service users. The post is currently
for ten hours per week for one year.
The successful applicant will be someone with vision, enthusiasm
and energy, to join a small staff team of three
and play a key role in moving this excellent project into
the next phase of its development. The applicant will be
required to have some understanding of the needs of
people with Asperger Syndrome, experience in developing
activities preferably for adult group and experience
of coordinating volunteers.
For more details please contact Chris Covill via email at
themondayclub@hotmail.co.uk or on 07873 311 610 for
further information and application packs. The closing
date will be at 5pm on Friday 22 nd February 2013. Interviews
will commence during the week beginning Monday
25 th February 2013.

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NEW SCHOOL OPENING SOON IN
LEICESTERSHIRE
WOODSIDE LODGE OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTRE
Is an Autism specific provision,
based in Quorn, Leicestershire, for
children aged 11-19. We currently
offer 4 places, increasing to 8 over
the next 2 years.
Woodside Lodge is the creation of
Jonny Lakin, formerly of ASPIRE:
Lifeskills. For many years it has been
his dream to open his own provision
and after a lot of hard work, Woodside
Lodge will be ready to accept
children from February 2013.
Situated on a working commercial farm, our curriculum will give each
child the opportunity to spend as much time outdoors, with the animals
on the farm and in our own “on-site” woods, as possible.
Woodside Lodge will put the needs of all our students first. From the individualised
timetables with 1:1 teaching, to the individual booths for each
child to work in, every aspect of a child’s school life has been thought
about to help them all reach their full potential.
The school is now ready for parents and professionals to look around. To
arrange a visit, or to find out any more information, please email
info@woodside-lodge.co.uk or call Jonny on 07903 137 897. Alternatively,
you may download our brochure by visiting www.woodsidelodge.co.uk
and clicking on the BLOG tab.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Carer required for a few hours a week, out of school hours, for
16 year old autistic boy in Countesthorpe.
Social Services funded pay £8.50 per hour.
Jimmy is placid, affectionate but has little spoken language. He enjoys
going for walks, doing jigsaws and simple games and watching videos
(mostly Muppets). Your task is simply to be with him.
Phone Victoria on 0116 2771974 for more information.

Wanted – Housemates
Young People ready for more independent living
Do you have a son or daughter in the
late teens/early twenties who is ready for
more independence?
I’m not running a business but a mum
looking for housemates to share a
house. My son Alex is nearly 19, has
Asperger’s and is currently living in
‘halls’ in Loughborough College. He is
coping really well, with a little bit of help,
and he will be ready next year to move
into a house of his own in Loughborough.
We can’t be the only parents in a
similar position and wondered if there
were others ‘out there’ whose young people might be interested in renting
out a room and sharing a house with him on a longer term basis. It’s
likely to suit those who are relatively independent and ready to take that
big jump away from ‘Mum & Dad’ (It seems to have been more difficult
for me than for Alex!).
Our plan is to have someone else living-in on reduced rent to provide
‘light touch’ support for Alex: It may be that this person could be employed
to undertake particular support work with your son/daughter if
they need it? This would be a personal arrangement as I stress we are
not providing a care setting or services.
We are thinking that a group of 3 or 4 young people together would work
well as if yours is anything like mine, having an immediate social network
‘on site’ is likely to be attractive. Alex attended main stream school and
college (with brilliant support – thank you, you know who you are!) and is
friendly sociable and caring. He cooks for himself, manages his own
money but we don’t like the idea of him ‘being on his own’. He is likely to
get a part time job in catering when he leaves College.
If you think your son or daughter might be interested in this kind of setting
and you’d like to explore this with us, please give me a call on 07789
967 417 or 01530 815 868 (after 6 pm) and we can arrange to meet up
for a chat. Once we have a group I will be going house hunting!
Alyson Hunter
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£5 per session, 2 places left at going to press but will start a waiting list

For up-to-date details on trips with Miracles to Believe In look at the
website—www.miraclestobelievein.moonfruit.com.
Please note whilst the trips are low in cost to you, M2BI pay the full
price. When you do not turn up we still have to pay for our bookings.
You must also turn up on time i.e. Bowling at 10am please do not turn up
at 10.45!
We also have children on the Spectrum and they do not appreciate
having to wait 45 minutes for mum and dad to organise everyone.
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April 2nd Phoenix Film Show
Film on a
bean bag
This is a opportunity to watch a large screen film, whilst relaxing with
your family on bean bags so no worry about children running around or
causing disruptions. An ideal start to going to the Cinema.
First performance will be 10am with a second performance at either
11.30 or 12 noon depending on the animated film chosen. Contact Rox
via email or the form below if you are interested in attending.
aysherox49@btinternet.com
Parent/Carer Name .............................................................................
Name of Child with ASD....................................................................
Address..............................................................................................
......................................................................Postcode......................
Mobile number....................................................... Email:..............................................................................
No of Adults in party........No of Children..........(max 6 per family)
Time of film showing you prefer. 10am or
11.30/12noon
Send the form to Mrs Dinsdale, 49 Crane Ley Road,
Groby, Leicester. LE6 0FD or email this information to
aysherox49@btinternet.com
Miracles to believe in

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Trip to
Cadbury World
Thursday 4th April 2013
We are running a trip to Cadbury’s World with 2
coaches picking up at Loughborough, Leicester and
Fosse Park. Our scheduled group time will be 9.50 so we will be arriving
about 9.30. We have been told that the tours normally take about 1hr
30mins to 2 hours to travel round and that there is a shop, restaurant and
play area but that with it being the Easter Holidays it will be busy. There
are also indoor and outdoor picnic areas.
We will return from Cadbury’s World between 1pm and 1.30pm.
Miracles to believe in
Please note there are only 80 places available so please respond to this
trip asap to ensure you have a place.
Please note if you do not send a stamped addressed envelope to receive
your confirmation reply you will not be allocated a place. We cannot reserve
places without receipt of money.
Cadburys World
Parent/Carer Name:...............................................................................
Name of Child/Children with ASD.........................................................
Address: ......................................................................................
............................................................Post code................................
Email: ............................................. Mobile number.........................
No of adults in party:________No of Children _______(max 6 tickets)
Please indicate where you wish to pick up the coach (times to be conf)
Loughborough, Amber Rooms ...................
St Margarets Bus Station ....................
Asda Fosse Park ....................
Please send this form along with £10 cheque or postal order made out
to ‘Miracles to Believe In’ to Please send this form to Carole Heubeck,
5 Grey Crescent, Newtown Linford, Leicester LE6 0AA
.

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Friday 31st May 2013
HOLLYWOOD BOWL
Meridian - Leicester
Friday 31st May 2013
£5 per family
Parent/Carer Name:...............................................................................
Name of Child/Children with ASD.........................................................
Address: ......................................................................................
............................................................Post code................................
Email: .............................................Phone Number ........................
Mobile number................................................................................
No of adults in party:____________No of Children _______
£5 enclosed - payment to be made at time of booking
Miracles to believe in
A Charity for Children with Autism
We have booked 20 lanes for families of up to 6 - which must include
the child under 19 with ASD (or waiting diagnosis). This offer will be
limited to the first 20 families for 2 games each. These lanes are
booked for when Hollywood Bowl opens so it will be quieter than at
other times and better for our children and siblings.
Please note that as we book for 9am/10am whichever is the opening
time - you must be there then. Hollywood Bowl does gets very
busy and they cannot reserve our lanes if we turn up late.
Please reserve places by filling in and sending the form to Peter
Holdridge at the address below, along with a cheque/postal order for £5.
If you are not able to provide an email address on the form then please
also send a stamped addressed envelope. Please do not contact by
phone. If you wish to get in touch with Peter email
barmyarmy@barmyarmy.free-online.co.uk
or at the postal address below.
Please send this form along with £5 cheque or postal order made out to
‘Miracles to Believe In’ to Peter Holdridge, 25 Linden Avenue, Countesthorpe,
Leicester, LE8 5PG. Please do not phone Peter.

£10 per family (max of 6)
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National Space Centre
Wednesday 29th May
Please book places by filling in and sending the form to Mrs Dinsdale at
the address below, along with a cheque/postal
order for £10.
10am start - families to make their own way there.
Please note it is important that you are there for
10am as everyone needs to go in together on the
group booking. It is not fair to keep children waiting
who have arrived on time.
If you are not able to provide an email address on
the form then please also send a stamped addressed
envelope so that she can send you information.
Please do not contact by phone. If you
wish to get in touch with Mrs Dinsdale, email
aysherox49@btinternet.com
or at the postal address below.
Wednesday 29th May 2013
Parent/Carer Name:...............................................................................
Name of Child/Children with ASD.........................................................
No of children and age of them............ ............ .......... .............
Address: ......................................................................................
............................................................Post code................................
Email: .............................................Phone Number ........................
Mobile number................................................................................
No of adults in party:____________ No of Children _______
£10 enclosed - payment to be made at time of booking
Miracles to believe in
A Charity for Children with Autism
Please send this form along with £10 cheque or postal order made out to
‘Miracles to Believe In’ to Mrs Dinsdale, 49 Crane Ley Road, Oadby,
Leicester LE6 0FD .

Do you remember the feelings you had when you first discovered
your child had a disability or special need?
Did you need someone to talk to, was someone there to listen?
Might talking to another parent have helped?
Face 2 Face is a one-to-one parent befriending service developed by
parents to help deal with the emotions parents feel when they discover
their child has a disability or any special needs.
Many parents feel confused, saddened and angry when their child is
diagnosed. Although some will have access to professionals who can
help, many feel the need to talk to someone who they think will truly
understand – someone who has been there before – another parent.
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If you have a child with special needs and are interested in becoming a
Volunteer Befriender to help other parents please contact:
Fiona Burton, Face 2 Face Co-ordinator - Tel: 07736 730 978
email: fiona.burton@scope.org.uk
Parent Participation: Your Opinion Matters!
Menphys Special Outreach Service, Parent Partnership and the Parent
and Carer Council are working together to ensure Parent Participation
is working for families in Leicestershire.
What is Parent Participation? Parent Participation has two main
goals:
• Making sure families receive relevant and accurate information
about what is happening in the County including activities, events and
consultations.
• Making sure your voices are heard about services in your area. This
is achieved through the Leicestershire Parent Carer Forum and Local
Focus Groups.
We have a regular Newsletter and email updates containing information
on activities, news and consultations.
If you would like receive these, please email your name and address to
Kirsty.Neale@menphys.org.uk or call 0116 282 3659.

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STATEMENT ON SENSORY PROCESSING DIFFICULTIES
AND SENSORY INTEGRATION THERAPY
FAMILY, YOUNG PEOPLE AND CHILDREN CLINICAL SUB-GROUP
The Family, Young People and Children Clinical Sub-Group has considered
a request to commission sensory integration therapy from the Children’s
Occupational Therapy Service within Leicestershire Partnership
Trust. The Group has investigated the research evidence for this therapy
and received representations from clinicians and parents.
The Group has concluded that there is insufficient evidence that sensory
integration therapy is a clinically effective intervention. This is based on
an analysis of research evidence including analysis conducted by the
American Academy of Paediatrics in 2011.
Sensory integration therapy has never been commissioned by health
services in Leicester City, Leicestershire or Rutland. Based on the guidance
and the financial constraints facing all health services, sensory integration
therapy will not be commissioned for the foreseeable future.
November 2012
Contact:
Leon Charikar
Joint Commissioner for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
NHS Leicester City, St John’s House, 30 East Street Leicester. LE1 6NB
Leon.charikar@leicestercity.nhs.uk
FOR INFORMATION

Regular dance sessions for disabled
children and their families!
Turned on its Head
Returning to Embrace Arts on Sundays
once a month, these magical movement
sessions will bring an inclusive
approach to dance and disability by
enabling families to explore and take
part together.
Our experienced and supportive dance
artists Liz Clark and Oksana Tyminska
will tailor activities to enable everyone
to take part, have fun and get creative!
24 February and 17 March 2013
Times: from 3pm-5pm.
£5 per child per session, accompanying adults free
To book call 0116 252 2455 or visit www.embracearts.co.uk
Marianne Pape, Education and Outreach Officer, Embrace Arts
Richard Attenborough Centre, Lancaster Road , Leicester LE1
7HA
0116 252 3037 / mp422@le.ac.uk
22

23
RHIANNON ROBERTS
LEICESTERSHIRE
AUTISM OUTREACH SERVICE
INVITES YOU TO THE 2013 COFFEE MORNINGS
This is an event where those looking after a young person
with autism can come to chat with others, ask questions
and share ideas. We hope to attract people who
have children in a variety of mainstream and specialist
placements.
DATES
Monday 18 th March 2013
Tuesday 14 th May 2013
10.00am – 11.30am
at
The Glennister Room
All Saints C of E Primary School
Long Street, Wigston ,LE18 2AH
Hope to see you there…
Any queries please contact Rhiannon Roberts from the
Autism Outreach Service – on 0116 305 9400
To help us plan refreshments, e-mail or phone and leave
a message to the name and address below. Thank you.
Bess Gerard, Autism Outreach Admin, Room 600,
Specialist Teaching Services, County Hall, Glenfield,
Leics LE3 8RA
Tel: 0116 305 9400 Fax: 0116 305 5184
bess.gerard@leics.gov.uk

LEICESTERSHIRE EARLY YEARS
24
AUTISM OUTREACH SERVICE
Coffee Mornings
Friday 1st March
Wednesday 10th April
Friday 17th May
9.30 - 11.30am
Where: The Watson Room, Menphys Centre,
Launceston Road, Wigston LE18 2FR
COFFEE AFTERNOONS
All Thursdays
28 th February 2013
21 st March 2013
25 th April 2013
23 rd May 2013
1.00pm – 2.30pm
Where: Higham Way Baptist Church, Higham Way
Burbage, Hinckley, LE10 2PX
You are more than welcome to bring younger siblings along
Hope to see you there…
If you would like to come along then please call or
email Bess Gerard as soon as possible
0116 305 9400 bess.gerard@leics.gov.uk
For more information contact: Julie Spradbury
Leicestershire Autism Outreach Service 0750 800 2986

25
ASD Coffee Mornings
Are you a parent, grandparent, carer or family friend
of someone with Autism or Asperger Syndrome?
If so … why not come and join us for a cuppa and a chat?
Where? Kirby Muxloe Free Church, Main St. Kirby Muxloe
When? The last Friday morning of the month during term time
10-12am
Fri 22nd Feb 2013 - Puberty
Friday 26th April 2013 - Holiday Tips
Friday 28th June 2013 - Summer Survival Tips!
There is a ‘focus’ for each meeting where parents
can share their experiences and ‘top tips’!
Hope you can join us ... everyone welcome!
Any queries please contact Rox on 07939 253 124
or Autism Outreach 0n 0116 305 9400
Embrace Arts
My name is Claire Tidmarsh, and I work at Embrace Arts.
We are creating a Young People’s Advisory Board for young people
aged 14 - 19 and young disabled people aged 14 - 26 to have a say on
what they would like to see more of within the arts, and have a chance to
help organise some events at our centre.
We will then send them all the information along with free tickets to see
our show The Flying Machine by HandMade Theatre.
Our email address is arts-education@le.ac.uk,
Embrace Arts, Richard Attenborough centre, Lancaster Road, Leicester
LE1 7HA
Direct tel & Box Office: 0116 252 2455
For more information on Embrace Arts see page 22

AYLESTONE MAC is a supervised space to play
sport and games and enjoy physical activity such as
Trampoline, Bouncy Castle and Soft Play.
On ONE monthly session trampolining will be offered
and in the OTHER monthly session the bouncy castle
will be offered.
Disabled changing & assistance facilities are available at the
pool.
Day: Sundays (2X PER MONTH)
Times(s): 1pm-3pm
Age Range: 0-19 years old
Cost: £3.00 per child/young person who attends the session.
Venue: Aylestone Leisure Centre, 2 Knighton Lane East, Leicester LE2 6LU
Feb 17 th 2013 Bouncy Castle
March 3 rd 2013 Trampoline
March 17 th 2013 Bouncy Castle
April 7 th 2013 Trampoline
April 21 st 2013 Bouncy Castle
Also, Swimming in all sessions. Small Pool 1-2pm only, and 1-3pm in large
pool. There is one support worker available, but a parent per child should
also be in pool.
Cost: £2.50 per child with discount over 3 children. £3.00 per child with discount
over 3 children for Swimming
Please pass the word on about this activity.
Due to lack of funding the sessions may stop after the May sessions. .
PLEASE CONTACT BECKY on 07966 844 308
For City and County Children- No need to book
Please note there is a height and age restriction for the soft play area
of approximately 4ft 9 inches /9 years old and parents will need to stay
with their child/ren but we will try and ensure parents can have a refreshment
break.
26

Communication Matters
27
OUR SPACE aims to provide a caring environment for
children (ages 0-12) with a range of special needs.
Come and enjoy a free, friendly and relaxing atmosphere,
coffee and newspapers whilst we provide a fun
playtime for your child.
We meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month,
10.15 -12.15
Come along to Crescent House on Regent Road,
Leicester. There is ample parking nearby, plus three
disabled spaces in the rear of the venue.
For more information contact Wyn and Susan Rees
0116 270 8738
This initiative is run by Holy Trinity Church. Please note
that one carer must remain with their child on the premises
of Crescent House
They have a great web-site: http://www.communicationmatters.org.uk
You can join their organisation free for a year, then there is a small
charge payable but that includes them sending you lots of information
and their newsletter that anyone with a child with communication issues
would find very useful.
The parent and carer forum now has a Facebook page …
https://www.facebook.com/LeicesterCityParentAndCarersForum
• In the short time we have had the page it has already had far more
activity than the Website. Forum events and useful information on local
and national issues can be found on there for anyone who cannot make
the forum in person, or if anyone has a Facebook page they can ‘Like’
the site and they can then ask questions and post their own (relevant
and tolerant please!) information.

Facebook Pages
Leicestershire Support for Families Caring for Special Needs
Young Adults.
Set up by parents . “We created this Group as we felt there was a need
for support for families as they go through Transition and into Adulthood."
Search “Leicestershire Support for Families Caring for Special Needs
Young Adults” on Facebook to post anything of interest, questions, your
experiences etc..
Leicestershire Support for Families Caring for Special Needs Children.
This group was set up for Leicestershire families of children with
special additional needs. It is used as a forum for anyone to post questions,
advertise or share an event - anything which is helpful and a
chance to make new friends too
Miracles to Believe In facebook page - an alternative to the website -
usually has info about trips and activities for children and their families -
Charity for children and teenagers on the Autistic spectrum in Leics and
Rutland
Leicester Autism Parents Group facebook page
This is a group to help parents and carers of children with Autism or
suspected Autism in Leicester to connect and share stories and tips etc
Support group for those with siblings on the spectrum
Specturumsiblingsupport.webs.com
The above site was recommended and was also originally posted and
shared on the Leicester Autism Parents Group site
http://talkaboutautism.org.uk/
talk about Autism is an online community and discussion forum for
everyone interested in autism, including parents, carers, family members,
people on the spectrum, and professionals.
Talk about Autism is provided by Ambitious about Autism, a national
charity for children and young people with autism.
28
Know any good websites you want to share with us ?
Send Carole the info to be posted on this page

29
USEFUL WEBSITES
http://www.leicestershireautism.org.uk/ LAS
http://www.leatleicester.org.uk/ LEAT
http://tap.leicester.gov.uk TAP
http://www.themondayclub.co.uk/ MONDAY CLUB
http://www.autism.org.uk/ NAS
http://www.newdawnfamilysupportservice.org.uk/new/ NEW DAWN
http://www.norsaca.org.uk NORSACA
http://www.claspthecarerscentre.org.uk/ CLASP
http://www.miracles-to-believe-in.co.uk/ M2BI
http://www.translate-asc.org.uk/ TRANSLATE
http://sensorysmart.co.uk/ Sensory Clothing
Council for Dis-
http://www.councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk/
able Children
CDC has a wide variety of books, tools and resources available for professionals, parents
and young people. Many of these resources are available free of charge. See website
above
http://www.edcm.org.uk/media/8260/using_the_law_to_fight_cuts.pdf
The above website is called “Using the Law to Fight the Cuts to Disabled
Children’s Services” A practical guide for campaigners - parents, carers
and local groups
This interesting paper is intended to help campaigners – including parents
and carers - understand how the law can be used to help fight cuts
to valued services for disabled children in their area. Although the focus
is on disabled children’s services, many of the legal principles set out in
this paper will apply to services for disabled adults and other groups. The
paper is intended to be read by those who do not have a legal background.
This paper has been written by Steve Broach. Steve is a barrister
at Doughty Street Chambers specialising in cases involving disabled
children and others who need care and support from public bodies. Before
becoming a barrister Steve worked for a number of organisations in
the voluntary sector supporting disabled children and adults and their
families and was most recently Campaign Manager of the Every Disabled
Child Matters campaign. (Continued on page 30)

Useful links.
http://www.mind.org.uk/assets/0000/8587/Police_Guide.pdf
Really good leaflet from Mind re Police and Mental Health
SEN Code of Practice (Education Act 1996)
Get yourself a free copy by contacting the Department of Education
on 0845 602 2260 quote ref number DCSF 581/2001
Www.education.gov.uk
It was reported in the Times Magazine 9.2.13 that in May this year the
American Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM5),
the go-to publication for all international clinicians, will abolish Asperger’s
preferring instead to use the broad term “Autistic Spectrum Disorder”. It
says Britain and Europe are set to follow with their equivalent in 2015.
Meaning that effectively Asperger’s will no longer exist as a label.
It was a very interesting article about “Are you on the Spectrum?”
30
Directory of Adult Services
The Directory is available by post or online at
www.leicestershireautism.org
Lindy Hardcastle (Helpline 0116 2916958)
www.newdawnfamilysupportservice.org.uk
New Dawn is a family counselling service run by David Brindley who
has worked in this field for many years before establishing this organisation
to ensure ‘affordable’ ... free, advice is available to all.
David explained that his service helps families understand and manage
the stress in their life of having an additional needs child; it is not just
available to parents/carers but can also help the siblings of the child.
The contact details for this service are:
Glebe House, 190 Forest Road, Loughborough, LE11 3HU
Tel: 0116 287 7335 Mobile: 07887 750 890
Email: davidbrindley435@btinternet.com

31
Youth Club
For children and young people
Age 10 -18 yrs old with
Autistic Spectrum Disorder
The club aims to give children social opportunities away from the family
and the school day. We will do our best to make the club fun and support
the children to make friends with each other. The club will be
geared towards the interests of the children within a safe and structured
environment.
The club will always be run by members of staff from the NAS, with
supported volunteers who are trained to have a high level in regard to
Autism. All staff and volunteers are enhanced CRB checked and have
committed to this club.
Venue: Grovebrook House, Brook Street, Whetstone, LE8 6LA
5pm – 7pm every 1 st Tuesday Evening of the month.
Cost £10 for 2 hours.
PLEASE CONTACT:
Zoe on 0116 284 3900/07983 883 649
or Alasdair on 07766 487 933
ASD Family Swimming Sessions
Saturdays at Bosworth Community Sports College Desford
3.30 - 5.00pm
Everyone welcome
Swimming Sessions every Saturday of the year;
apart from Bank Holiday weekends.
Sessions paid for by Miracles to Believe In
New families would be most welcome to join in – just turn up.
Any questions? Contact Sue Cox, the Sports College's Pool Manager,
by telephone (01455 822841 ext.207) or email at
suec27@boscol.leics.sch.uk for further details.

32
A S D COUNTY YOUTH CLUB
Also Known as
THE FRIENDSHIP CLUB
For young people in Leicestershire aged 11 – 19 years
with ASD & moderate learning difficulties.
Held at The Salvation Army, Leicester South Corps
Ladysmith Road, South Wigston
Leicestershire, LE18 4UZ
2 nd & 4 th Tuesdays of each month
Registration required as places are limited
We are also asking parents if they can volunteer their help in the youth
club on a rota basis
Contact Diane Madelin 07722914124
S.P.A.C.E.
(Support and Play for Autistic Children with Energy)
10am – 12noon
1 st and 3 rd Saturday of the month
(reduced rate for Leisure Link members)
Castle Donington Community College, DE74 2LN
(Tel: 01332 810528)
Come along and join us for a friendly welcome. We aim to
offer support and advise along with a cup of tea, cake and a
chat. For further information contact
Julie Truman 07988934446
Sara Goodwin 01530 461660
Space also offers swimming at Ibstock community College on Sundays 3 -
4pm

Siblings After School Support Groups (8-14 years)
www.sibsservice.co.uk
What is it?
Support groups for children between 8-14 years of age who have a
brother or sister with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Asperger’s Syndrome.
The groups offer emotional and peer support through interactive,
fun and relaxed group activities facilitated by qualified, friendly
and enthusiastic staff.
The groups are about:
Fun
Relieving Isolation
Acknowledging Feelings
Modelling Coping Strategies
Enhancing Knowledge
The service is provided by Ruach Care Ltd a charity that specialises in
supporting individuals with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Asperger’s
Syndrome.
Why has it been set up?
Sometimes it’s hard having a sibling with special needs and good to
have people to talk to who have some idea what it’s like. It’s nice
knowing that you’re not the only one who has a brother or sister who’s
a bit different. It is widely recognized that siblings of someone with
ASD can sometimes miss out on doing the things that other kids get to
do because of the needs of their sibling. This is where the Siblings
Support Groups come in.
Where can I get involved?
There are currently groups at Braunstone, Coalville, Hinckley,
Loughborough, Market Harborough and Melton Mowbray.
How much will it cost?
There is a small charge of £2 contribute towards drinks and snacks
and resources.
Where can I find out more?
If you would like to know more please contact us at:
33
siblings@ruachcare.co.uk
Or telephone:
Catherine Gallagher – 07980 624 494
Sherralyn Coleman – 01530 245 922

REALITY
Supporting Parents/Carers & Individuals with Autism
C/o Leisa Smith Email: leisa_smith3@hotmail.com
Tel 07912 850 517
Venue:Braunstone Sure Start, Gallards Hill, Braunstone, LE3 1QR
We will meet from 10.30am till 12pm. This venue has many facilities
available to us including the use of a super crèche where workers will be
available to look after the younger ones & use of their sensory room
throughout the session.
Looking forward to seeing you all Leisa
34
Child & Family Support Worker
Our Charity is currently able to fund (part-time) a Child & Family Support
Worker - Leisa Smith who acts as a resource for families of children aged
0-19 yrs who are suspected of having an autistic spectrum condition or
have a diagnosis of ASD. The types of support that Leisa provides include,
help obtaining a diagnosis, providing guidance and information
post diagnosis, help obtaining a Statement of Special Educational Needs
(SEN), and being present at meetings with Schools.
The Child & Family Support Worker contact number is 07958 235 015
S.N.I.P.S.Hinckley
Helping children to be themselves, to make new friends & try new experiences.
SNIPS is a small charity in Hinckley. We provide weekly
clubs and summer holiday play schemes at local schools. Our aim is to
reduce isolation for disabled children by giving them a sense of belonging.
By using volunteers to befriend our youngsters we create a better
understanding of disability and as a consequence of our work, we reduce
stress within families. Last year we celebrated our 25th birthday.
Special Needs Integration Projects, Amity House, 6 Holliers Walk,
Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1QW, 01455 440 660,
info@snipshinckley.com

LEAT
Over time we have expanded our services according to the needs of
young people and adults with Asperger syndrome and are now able to
offer a wide range of holistic and person centred services.
LEAT are looking for people interested in their charitable work to join the
Management Committee
We currently also have vacancies for Bank Support Staff.
If you are interested in either of the above positions and would like more
information please contact:
Carol Hunt - Manager Direct Line: 0116 2857822
LEAT
186a London Road, Leicester, LE2 1ND
Tel: 0116 2857822 (dir. line)
Spectrum Market Harborough
Spectrum is a support group for parents of autistic children that meets
monthly for coffee, support and chat in Market Harborough . We also arrange
occasional leisure activities for our children.
We meet at the Congregational Church Hall in Market Harborough If you
would like more information please contact us on 07831349574
35
New Befriending Service
LEAT is a local charitable organisation providing specialist support to
young people aged 16 plus and adults with Asperger syndrome. A new
addition to our already comprehensive range of services is the Befriending
Service, funded by Lloyds TSB, Foundation for England and Wales. It
complements the existing Consultancy Service and the Aspergers Aspirations
project (funded by The Big Lottery Fund).
The aim of the Befriending Service is to provide regular social companionship
for people with Asperger syndrome and assessed with ‘moderate
needs’ who are not entitled to a personal budget but still need some support.
The Befrienders will have an up to date CRB check in place and be
trustworthy, reliable and friendly volunteers.
If the Befriending Service is of interest to you or anyone you may
know please contact:
Gill Keeling on 07864 267219
or email Gill at gkleat@gmail.com

36
RNIB College Loughborough extends services into respite care
RNIB College Loughborough has announced that it will be extending its
services to offer a range of respite care options for young people with
disabilities. The College, which currently supports young people to access
further education, independence and employment, will be utilising
one of the flats in its residential facilities to provide for the growing demand
for respite opportunities within the Midlands.
In addition to offering a range of day time and evening activities, the
residences will be available 38 weeks of the year to provide flexible
respite options including, weekend and overnight stays, short and long
term breaks. Operating as a full-time residential College means that the
purpose-built accommodation provides the perfect mix of support and
independence with plenty of activities for young people to get involved
with alongside other young adults. This will provide a significant resource
for carers, giving them the peace of mind to relax knowing that
their young person is accessing a safe and enriching environment.
Just like the College provision, the respite services are available to
young people aged 16-25 with a wide range of disabilities. Staff are
highly trained and experienced in supporting people with Autism, mild,
moderate or severe learning difficulties, mobility problems and managed
chronic illness.
Graham Owen, Head of Care at the College says: “This is an exciting
development which will provide much needed breaks for parents and
carers, whilst ensuring that young people are safe, supported and have
a good time whilst they are with us”.
For more information about this service please contact our admissions
team on 01509 611077 or email enquiries@rnibcollege.ac.uk

Jigsaw provides support for parents and carers and their families and
activities for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
Parents and Carers are welcome to join us over a hot drink in the
lounge at the Salvation Army Centre, Ladysmith Road, South Wigston,
LE18 4UZ from 7.00 to 9.00pm alongside the A.S.D. County Youth
Group held on the 2 nd and 4 th Tuesdays of the month.
Monthly Informal Meetings
7.30pm on the First Monday
of the month
Offering
Talks and Tea.
Support Information Advice
Moira Centre, Moira Street, Loughborough LE11 1AX
For further information see www.translate-asc.org.uk
Or telephone Jo or Paul on 01509 554797
Or email: translate_as1@ntlworld,com
37
For any further information on Jigsaw and its activities please contact:
Dave Nutting.
Tel: 07582197173
E-mail: sumkindasyndrome@hotmail.co.uk
For further information on the County Youth Group contact Diane;
Tel: 07722914124

38
Helpline
Leicestershire NAS Helpline
Tel: (0116) 291 6958
e-mail lindy@flaxfield.demon.co.uk
New NAS Phone Numbers
Education Rights Service 0808 800 4102
Autism Helpline 0808 800 4104
Parent-to-Parent Service 0808 800 4106
Help lines are now free from landlines and most mobiles: 3, O2, Orange,
T-mobile, Virgin and Vodafone.
AS well as the LAS & NAS helplines above, families in need of support
can visit our 'Signpost' service www.autism.org.uk/signpost
or contact one of the following organisations:
Citizens Advice: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Contact a Family: 0808 808 3555
Mencap: 0808 808 1111
Mind: 0845 766 0163
The Samaritans: 08457 90 90 90
Young Minds: 0808 802 5544
Contact a Family, New Service – Special Education Needs Advice
The SEN National service is part of our integrated Helpline/Online service
for families. It is now up and running with three dedicated and experienced
Special Education Needs advisers. The advice line is a one
stop shop for parents and other family members who are caring for a
child with SEN, on all education issues.
The telephone helpline will enable parents and carers to get one-toone,
in-depth and personalised advice from fully-trained SEN advisers.
So call our helpline today for specialised advice, just select SEN from
the menu when you call:
Helpline: 0808 808 355, Mon–Fri, 9:30am–5pm.
The Children's Disability Helpline (formally the Specialist Health Visitor
Helpline) is 0116 225 6560 open Monday to Friday 12noon to 2pm.

Useful Contacts continued from back page
ICT Assessment Service Tel: 0116 305 9400
Learning and Autism Support Team: Maggie Brookes Tel: 0116 225 4800
Rutland Autism Outreach: Tel: 01572 758 496
CLASP (Carers of Leicestershire Advocacy & Support Project)
Tel: 0116 2510999 email enquiries@claspthecarerscentre.org.uk
ADHD Solutions Tel: 0116 261 0711
Menphys SOS Tel: 01455 899111
New Dawn Family Support Service Tel: 0116 287 7335
www.newdawnfamilysupportservice.org.uk
Rutland Parent Partnership Service: Sue Flather, Rutland Citizens Advice Bureau, 56 High
Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AL Tel: 01572 757 420
Parent and Carers’ Council: Tel.07968 857 598
e-mail enquiries@parentcarercouncil.co.uk .
Jane Hall Tel: 07870 688973
Services for Adults with Autism in Leicestershire:
Fosse Autism Service: Chris Howell, Leicester Frith Hospital, Groby Road,
Leicester. Tel: 0116 225 5335
TAP Disabled Children’s Services Enquiries for City Carers:
The Access Point Tel 0116 294 6096
Text 07890 320 322 email TAP@leicester.gov.uk
Leicester City Parent and Carers Forum Contact Dave Nutting 07582 197173
LEAT Asperger Support Services 186 London Road, Leicester, LE2 1ND
e-mail: carolhunt@btconnect.com leat@btconnect.com Tel 0116 254 1664
Face 2 Face: Fiona Burton Tel: 07736 730978
Saturday Swimming Sessions at Bosworth Community College: Sue Cox
Tel: 01455 822 841 ext 27
If you have a contact you wish us to include on this page - please contact the Editor, Carole
Heubeck on 01530 244790
Apologies if you have been missed out of this quarters Link-Up - please get in touch and I
will try to put you in the next edition. Again if you are aware of a Group folding please let me
know so I can remove them - it causes great disappointment to new parents who are trying
to make contact with the Groups.
The next Link-Up will be published in June 2013 - Anything you wish to
submit for publication should be sent by Middle of May 2013 to Carole
Heubeck via email at
heubeck111@btinternet.com & also Heubecks@googlemail.com.
Alternatively please post to 5 Grey Crescent, Newtown Linford, Leicester,
LE6 0AA
39

40
Useful Contacts
Leicestershire Autistic Society
Chair Vacant
Vice Chair /fundraising Jenny Cornwell, 9 Kingston Way, Market Harborough LE16 7XB
Email, cornwells@hotmail.co.uk, Tel: 07775 777 524
Editor: Carole Heubeck, 5 Grey Crescent, Newtown Linford, Leics. LE6 0AA
Email Heubeck111@btinternet.com Tel: 01530 244 790
Secretary, Helpline & Membership: Lindy Hardcastle, . Tel: 0116 291 6958
e-mail lindy.hardcastle@hotmail.co.uk
Treasurer: Peter Holdridge, 25 Linden Avenue, Countesthorpe, Leicester, LE8 5PG.
barmyarmy@barmyarmy.free-online.co.uk Tel: 0116 277 1974
Family Support Worker: Leisa Smith Tel: 07958 235 015
Jigsaw Contacts: Chair Dave Nutting Tel: 07954 172 913
email sumkindasyndrome@hotmail.co.uk
Loughborough ASD Group : Carole Heubeck, Tel: 01530 244 790
Market Harborough Spectrum Support Group: Tel: 07831349574
SPACE-Castle Donington Support Group
Sara Goodwin 01530 461660 and Julie Truman Tel: 07988 934 446
National Autistic Society (NAS),
Helpline Education rights service Tel 0808 800 4104
Regional Contact. Ester Vickers, Regional Officer, East Midlands. Grovebrook House Resource
Centre: Brook Street, Whetstone, Leics. LE8 6LA Tel: 07787 526 184
Reality Support , Contact Leisa Smith Tel: 07912 850 517
Monday Club : email themondayclub@hotmail.co.uk
Contact Monday Club Project Manager Mobile 0787 3311 610
Translate Adult & Partners Group - Paul & Jo Sandford Tel: 01509 554 797
Miracles to Believe In.
Secretary Julian Heubeck, 5 Grey Crescent, Newtown Linford , Leicester LE6 0AA
Email heubeck111@btinternet.com Tel: 01530 244 790
The Parent Partnership Service: Tel: 0116 275 2097
County Parent Participation Coordinator-Kirsty Baylis Tel: 0116 288 5353
Aspire: Email aspirelifeskills@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07854 918 575
Children’s Services
Leicestershire Psychology Service: Tel: 0116 305 5100.
Leicester City Educational Psychology Service: Tel: 0116 221 1200
Leicestershire Autism Outreach Service: George Thomas: Tel: 0116 305 9400
Leicestershire Pre-school Support Worker: Tel. 0116 305 9400
Continued on previous page (39)