Support Directory

The NHS website provides information on what autism is, coming to terms with the diagnosis, where to get help and support, information for school-aged children and young people, support for transitioning into adulthood, and recommended further reading.

We recommend the National Autistic Society as a guide for parents of autistic children and family members, partners and loved ones of an autistic adult. The National Autistic Society supplies valuable information and resources to support families and children following a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, including how to discuss the diagnosis with your child.

As a parent, you may explore the different bodies available to enable children to have a say in their development. Additional information is available on the Council for Disabled Children website. For parents and schools, further advice is available via the Autism Education Trust.

There are several organisations that provide information, advice, and guidance relating to ADHD:

• ADDISS: The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service (ADDISS) is a hub for information, training and support for parents, people with ADHD, and professionals in the fields of ADHD and related learning and behavioural difficulties, supported by expert advisors on their professional board.
• YoungMinds: YoungMinds provides details aimed at children with ADHD or related symptoms, reassuring them that their experience is nothing to worry about and offering coping strategies.
• The ADHD Foundation: The ADHD Foundation outlines the support available for children, teens, and adults in the UK living with ADHD.
• AADDUK : AADDUK is a website by and for adults with ADHD, containing items such as research articles, FAQs, and a forum.

Essex Local Offer provides the details of services and support for children with special educational needs and disabilities, including emotional wellbeing, entertainment and leisure, and preparing for adulthood.

There are several local and national organisations offering support to children, adults and families with ASD and additional needs:

• Autism Anglia is an independent charity that supports autistic children, adults, and their families in East Anglia.
• SAFE (Supporting Asperger Families in Essex) is a support group for individuals and families affected by Asperger Syndrome (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA) in Essex, including the unitaries of Southend and Thurrock.
• Little Heroes ASD Support Group is a parent-led support group for families of children who are on the autistic spectrum in the Southend-on-Sea area.
• St Christopher School in Leigh-on-Sea signposts to courses and support for children with Asperger’s and ASD, including SAFE, Healthwatch Southend, and The Unravel Room.
• Livewell Southend’s Early Help Family Support Service offers children and families, regardless of age, the assistance they require as soon as the need presents itself to prevent escalation and more intensive support later on. Support is available on 01702 215 783.

SNAP

SNAP is a voluntary organisation based in Brentwood offering support to parents and carers of children with any particular need or disability.

The Maze Group

The Maze Group in Ipswich is a support group that offers courses to help parents understand their child’s diagnosis and additional needs.

Young Minds

Young Minds is a UK charity committed to improving the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people, offering information for parents and carers.

MIND ED

MindEd offers online advice and support to help understand and support children through various issues and worries.

NHS Choices

• NHS Choices is a resource offering information for young people on mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and stress.

SenseToys is a company that stocks sensory toys for calming, sensory input and curriculum-friendly sensory education resources.

Rompa is a leading sensory company offering sensory room design, installation, and sensory toys and resources.

NRS Healthcare is a supplier to the NHS, with a range of mobility equipment and disability aids.

The Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Foundation offers books, resources and courses designed to expand knowledge, foster awareness and promote recognition of Sensory Processing Disorder.

Fledglings is a non-profit shop that helps children and adults with special needs by supplying products and equipment that help with everyday challenges.

• ‘Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Signals’ by Angie Voss is a practical reference book written for parents, teachers and caregivers to guide an understanding of their child’s sensory differences and needs. It contains over two hundred of the most common sensory signals and cues with a sensory explanation and inexpensive ideas to help.
• ‘The Anger Box: Sensory Turmoil and Pain in Autism’ by Phoebe Caldwell explores the sensory issues experienced by those on the autistic spectrum and their neurobiological roots to find new ways of alleviating the distress that can characterise adults and children on the autistic spectrum.
• ‘Raising a Sensory Smart Child’ by Lindsey Biel and Nancy Peske is a handbook for dealing with sensory processing challenges, providing insights, practical tips, real-life strategies and resources for various ages.