Being an inclusivity first organisation
How we put this into practice within our Neurodivergent Programmes.
We are an inclusivity first organisation. Here’s how we put that into practice within our Neurodivergent Programmes.
To mark National Inclusion Week (14th – 20th September), we wanted to highlight some of the ways we make inclusivity a priority across our neurodivergent programmes, with the help of Emma, Project Lead of our Autism and ADHD Services.
Our aim is to create accessible, welcoming spaces where everyone can take part, feel supported, and be included. We are committed to learning and growing to ensure our support services are inclusive to everyone, because we believe every person deserves mental health support that is flexible and responsive to their needs.
Participants of our Autism and ADHD services can be very nervous about coming to a new group – totally understandable! That’s why we’ve taken steps to create an adjustable and responsive pathway to our support, to help people feel more comfortable and confident joining one of our programmes.
Here’s what to expect upon self-referral to our neurodivergent programmes and how we can help make your introduction easier!
– Planning ahead: We offer as much information about the venue, parking and bus routes – including maps and photographs – as you need.
– Get to know before you go: We arrange meet and group drop-in sessions before groups begin – an approach informed by former client feedback! This is an opportunity for people to find the building, plan in travel time, familiarise themselves with the building as well as meeting members and the group leader.
– Accessibility on-site: Every ensure every venue we use is accessible for all before booking.
– Accessibility online: We run groups online to accommodate people who would find it hard to join a group in person and stagger the times and days they run to accommodate working patterns.
– Working with you: People can contribute in whatever way they feel comfortable, cameras on or off, taking part in discussions through the chat function.
– Adapting resources: We want to ensure you can engage with every medium we give you, that’s why our workbooks can be adapted to meet your needs. Just let us know.
– Additional support: If people disclose medical information in the referral form, we discuss with them any accommodations we could put in place and risk assess required to enable accessibility. You’ve just got to ask!
We hope this has helped make self-referring to our neurodivergent programmes feel less daunting. If you have any questions please reach out.
Email emma.herdman@tynesidemind.org.uk
Inclusivity doesn’t end in our neurodivergent programmes. We regularly review and update our approaches within our other support services, informed by lived experiences. We are committed to learning and growing with our communities.
Could one of our neurodivergent programmes be right for you?
AAA programme is comprised of two support services, available in Gateshead and Northumberland. Find more information below.
Adult Autistic & ADHD Service
Our Adult Autism and ADHD Service (also known as Triple A, or AAA Service) is designed by and for neurodiverse adults and aims to support those awaiting a diagnosis.
Our Autism and ADHD Service supports Gateshead residents with five week courses, named ‘Autism and Me’ and ‘ADHD and Me’, developed to support the person, help you learn about yourself and enact coping strategies to help in your daily life. As a client of our Triple A Service you will also gain access to a monthly social group.
Whether formally diagnosed, or self-identifying, you are welcome to access this service.
To join our next available course please self-refer. Click here to get started.
We also accept referrals on someone’s behalf, with their consent, by health, charity and other practitioners from services.
Adult Autism Service
The Adult Autism Service is available to Northumberland residents waiting on an autism diagnosis – or recently diagnosed. Clients join a 5 week ‘Autism and Me’ course, encouraging individuals to learn about yourself, celebrate your differences and uncover coping strategies to help in your daily life, alongside a dedicated social group to connect with others.
We accept self-referrals for those currently awaiting a diagnosis- or recently diagnosed. Click here to get started.
We also accept referrals on someone’s behalf, with their consent, by health, charity and other practitioners from services.
