Autism Family Support Service

About

This is an independent service, which is not run by the NHS or WSCC.

This service is not checked by WSCC and including it on the Local Offer website does not mean that it is a recommended service.

Before using this service, we recommend you make your own checks. Your checks should include being happy that: the service will meet your needs; staff are properly qualified; policies are in place to keep everyone safe and you know how much the service will cost.

Use this guidance for advice about what to ask to help you make sure that children and young people are happy and protected in clubs, groups and activities. Find out more on our terms and disclaimer.

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We offer a 'no charge' monthly online drop-in called 'You Are Not Alone'. Parenting an autistic child can feel amazing, confusing, and overwhelming, sometimes all in the same day. That's why we host our no-cost monthly online drop-in sessions for parents and carers. What these sessions are all about? We've created a safe, non-judgemental space where parents can bring their questions, share worries and connect with others who 'get it'. Topics often included: Understanding and responding to challenging behaviour Making sense of autism on a deeper level The ups and downs of family relationships and dynamics Working with schools and professionals Meeting like-minded parents and realising you are not alone What we would like parents to take away: Feeling heard, appreciated, and understood Knowing they are seen as the experts on their own child and family Feeling hopeful and having gained practical ideas Who runs the sessions? The drop-in is run by Erik Wagter, co-founder of Autism Family Support Service. Alongside being a social worker, trainer and Solution Focused family coach, he also bring over two decades of personal lived family experience of autism. From time to time he will be joined by me, Sally Wagter. I am a teacher, author and trainer. These sessions are a chance for parents to talk openly, learn, and connect. They don't have to do this on their own. I received this message from a parent after our drop-in on the 4th November: 'I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know how helpful I found last night's session. Erik's compassionate and knowledgeable delivery immediately made me feel recognised and validated - and without coming across as remotely patronising - provided a wealth of information that I didn't know or had forgotten in the pressure-cooker atmosphere when it's often hard to think clearly'.

What we do

• We host our no-cost monthly online drop-in sessions for parents and carers every first Tuesday of the month. Email us to get the zoom link.
• Our service is online.

Age range

4-18

Free to use

Yes

Our users say

I just wanted to drop you a line to let you know how helpful I found last night's session. Erik's compassionate and knowledgeable delivery immediately made me feel recognised and validated - and without coming across as remotely patronising - provided a wealth of information that I didn't know or had forgotten in the pressure-cooker atmosphere when it's often hard to think clearly. It was lovely to see Sally also bringing in her expertise when required. I was also aware that I wasn't the only one who found the session healing and empowering - I was following a number of the comments, many of which were from parents who, like me, found comfort in realising they weren't alone.