Autism Information Hub drop-ins – suspension of service due to Covid 19 pandemic
In light of continuing government guidance regarding the Covid 19 pandemic, the Gateshead Autism Information Hub remains closed until restrictions are lifted and the service is allowed to resume. The situation is under constant review and when we are allowed to reopen, updates will be issued here and through other media.
The Autism Information Hub is available to anyone with an interest in autism – parents/carers/family members, professionals, practitioners, or individuals with autism, with or without a diagnosis.
The Autism Information Hub monthly drop-ins offer:
- an opportunity to speak with a professionally trained autism specialist and seek advice about any concerns you might have
- guidance on autism assessment and diagnosis in Gateshead
- access to a wide range of books, information and resources on a variety of autism topics, including training, social events, group activities etc
- a relaxed refreshment area where visitors can meet people and share experiences
- guidance and signposting to appropriate support services and voluntary and charity organisations operating locally
- free exclusive access to the sensory room for parents and carers attending the drop-in (children must be supervised by an adult at all times in the sensory room)
- representatives from outside agencies who can advise on the help available from their services
Gateshead Autism Hub Facebook Group
Gateshead Autism Information Hub now has a Facebook Group for information sharing. The Hub welcomes parents and carers of autistic children, professionals and practitioners, autistic individuals and anyone with an interest in autism. You do not need to be a Gateshead resident to join.
Please join the group to access our resources, and feel free to share widely.
You can find the Facebook Group here:
www.facebook.com/groups/387109345806360
Autism Hub Parent Support Groups
The Autism Information Hub has two spin-off support groups for parents and carers of autistic children and young people. The daytime group meets between 9.30 and 11.30am on the first Friday of each month. The evening support group meets between 6.00 and 7.30pm on the Friday evening before the monthly drop-in session. Both sessions are at Elgin Children’s Centre.
These meetings are not open to professionals and practitioners.
All parents and carers are welcome to join the groups for mutual support and information-sharing about their autism experiences. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate children at these meetings.
For further details please contact karen.thirlaway@blueyonder.co.uk
Drop-in and support group dates 2021
Hub drop-in
Third Monday of every month 9.30 -11.30am.
Dates will be available when the service resumes.
Day time support group
First Friday of every month. 9.30 – 11.30am.
Dates will be available when the service resumes.
Evening support group
Fridays before each Autism Hub drop-in 6 – 7.30pm
Dates will be available when the service resumes.
Free car parking is available for the Autism Information Hub drop-in sessions and support group meetings.
Directions to the Elgin Centre can be found here: The Elgin children’s centre.
A guide to claiming Child DLA (Disability Living Allowance) is available, either digitally by emailing karen.thirlaway@blueyonder.co.uk or in person at the Autism Hub drop-ins or support group meetings.
For more information about the Autism Information Hub, contact karen.thirlaway@blueyonder.co.uk or lynne.kilford@gateshead.gov.uk
The Elgin Centre also has a community cafe, a sensory space, play areas and toy library on site.
Click this link for more details about what’s on at The Elgin children’s centre.
For more information about services available at the Elgin Centre, contact Elgin Children’s Centre, Elgin Road, Gateshead, NE9 5PA, phone 0191 433 6300 or email gatesheadchildrenscentre@gateshead.gov.uk