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Autism Service

What is the Autism Service?

A support service for people who are on the waiting list for an autism assessment or for people who have a confirmed diagnosis of Autism. The service uses the the Five Ways to Wellbeing model and the Outcome Star tool to explore a person’s journey in relation to autism through one-to-one sessions and group support.

Autism Service

Pre-Assessment

  • You will be allocated to an Autism Practitioner who will offer you 8 one-to-one sessions to go through how we can help you to move forward as you wait for your assessment. Appointments can be held in person, over the telephone or virtually.
  • Your support will be tailored around the Outcome Star tool, which enables you to explore certain areas in your life, e.g., relationships, communication, physical health, etc.
  • The sessions involve exploring the thoughts and feelings you may have about your potential diagnosis of Autism. The sessions are designed to help you implement strategies and tools to help you overcome any barriers in life you may be facing or any anxieties and concerns you may have.
  • The Outcome Star tool is used to measure your initial score about the above and then is reviewed at the final session. Onward signposting has been identified to help you on your journey.

Post-Assessment

  • If you already have a diagnosis of Autism, you can access our monthly (in-person) peer support groups, run as a closed group over 8 monthly sessions, which offer a psycho-educational element whereby you and the other group members can decide on a relevant theme that is significant to you for each session (e.g. communication, employment, managing emotions, etc.).
  • You will then use the session to explore your personal experiences, coping strategies and self-help tools, barriers, and positive experiences.
  • This offers an opportunity for shared experience, connecting with new people, learning and self-development which can result in feelings of empowerment and confidence.
How Can I Access the Autism Service?
What are the Opening Hours of the Autism Service?

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

 

How Do I Contact The Autism Service?

Tel: 01793 547150
Email: [email protected]

Our Groups:

Neurocircle

We are now offering a Family and Carers support group offering advice, support and guest speakers to those who are caring for someone who is neurodiverse.

Our group is a space for the friends, family, and carers of neurodiverse people to learn more about neurodiversity. It is an opportunity to expand your understanding of neurodiversity and talk to other people who have a neurodiverse loved one.

The sessions will vary from month to month, including guest speakers and open discussions. All are welcome to drop-in. Guest speaker sessions will require you to register via Eventbrite.

When

The sessions run on the third Friday of every month during term-time, 10 – 11:30 AM.

Where?

Our support group meets in person at The Junction, Town Hall, Regent Circus or online via Microsoft Teams.

More information

Tel: 01793 547150
Email: [email protected]

Neuro-Inclusive

A welcoming, calm space for neurodivergent people to connect, express themselves, and enjoy shared activities at their own pace.

Led by specialist practitioners with lived and professional experience, this social group offers understanding, support, and a sense of community. Whether you’re awaiting a neurodiversity assessment or already have a diagnosis, you’re invited to join us.

Each session includes a mixture of arts and crafts, games, walks, quizzes, and opportunities to choose or design your own activity – all in a relaxed,

When

We meet on Mondays from 11:00am to 12:30pm and Thursdays from 1:00pm to 2:30pm.

Where?

The Junction, Town Hall, Regent Circus.

More information

Tel: 01793 547150
Email: [email protected]

Watch Our Neurodiversity in the Workplace Video

 

This video explores the importance of creating neurodivergent-friendly workplaces and shares practical steps employers can take to better support, retain and empower talented employees.

At Swindon and Gloucestershire Mind, we’re committed to helping organisations build a greater understanding of neurodiversity and create inclusive workplaces where neurodivergent people feel valued, supported and able to thrive.

Visit our webpage to learn more about creating neurodivergent-friendly workplaces and access additional resources.

Our Partners:

Service Feedback:

"The support has been very helpful in understanding myself better and building confidence in who I am living on the spectrum. I never felt judged in the support sessions which in the past I have struggled with. I was able to open up about my difficulties and build on a sense of acceptance and hope." - Jane

I feel as though I know more about who I am. I struggled with self-identity and just talking through things helps build understanding in my difficulties and how to live with them." - Paul

"The overall support given to me is helping me to formulate in my mind the practical things we need to do to arrive at healthy state of wellbeing and also how to maintain this. The support given has been excellent." - Hannah

"The post-assessment group has helped me to meet and talk to others that experience similar difficulties. I look forward to coming to each session because the environment is laid back and I never feel judged." - Anna

"I feel more confident to share my views without being judged by others or sounding silly. I do not feel as anxious about meeting and connecting with others as I did before joining the groups." - Rob

"I was anxious about attending groups because I struggled with connecting with others but after a couple of sessions I felt more comfortable sharing and talking with others and this has massively improved my confidence and self-esteem." - Nina

What people ask about the most…

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What ages can access the service?

People aged 16 years +.

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Can the referral come from outside of Swindon?

The service is for Swindon residents or for people who are registered with Swindon GPs.

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Where can I get a referral form?

You can make a referral form via our referral form – https://sgmind.co.uk/services/referrals/. If you have any issues completing the form, you can contact us via email: [email protected]. 

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Can I access one to one support if I have a diagnosis of Autism?

The current model means that people with a diagnosis of Autism can access group support only at S&G Mind. 

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Can I receive counselling with the Autism Service?

Unfortunately, we do not offer a counselling service within the Autism service. However, we can offer signposting to our own or local counselling agencies as appropriate.

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Can I bring a carer or support worker to the peer-support group?

Unfortunately, due to the nature of the group and the sensitive issues people may wish to discuss we only allow those who are registered and have been assessed as appropriate to attend. Your carer or support worker is welcome to drop you off and pick you up and they can always leave a contact number should we need to get in touch with them.
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If I don't have a diagnosis, what support can I get?

At the moment we are only able to offer support to those who are on the waitlist or diagnosed with Autism. If this is something you would like more information about, you can contact the team for more information or speak to your GP.

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Will the support help with my assessment?

Unfortunately, due to the nature of the group and the sensitive issues people may wish to discuss we only allow those who are registered and have been assessed as appropriate to attend. Your carer or support worker is welcome to drop you off and pick you up and they can always leave a contact number should we need to get in touch with them.

 

We’re proud to be accredited with the following certifications: