Type of service: Local groups, Social groups, Social skills

The ASD Helping Hands Teenage Groups (13-19 years) meet fortnightly. The Thetford group is provided by Helping Hands, while the Kings Lynn group is provided by Helping Hands in association with The National Autistic Society's (NAS's) West Norfolk Branch. The aim of the sessions are to address issues affecting teenagers and young adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and provide them with the support, skills and experience they can use to deal with everyday life. The benefits of the group we believe will be: To provide a different environment that gives new experiences and choice of opportunity through the club programme. An opportunity to meet in a safe and friendly environment to share and discuss ideas, concerns or fears with others; To gain confidence in life skills through group activities and specifically tailored programmes; To build confidence and self-esteem by allowing group members to join in with planning and assisting in the making of key decisions. We aim to work towards making each member feel they are a valued part of the group, aiding and developing team work and personal growth; We aim to build and encourage social and communication skills through group activities, tailored programmes and trips out; We aim to establish a level of independence, enabling a smoother transition into adulthood through group involvement and participation. We aim to encourage group members to make their own decisions and take responsibility for themselves and others around them; and The group will provide a safe and friendly non-judgemental environment in which personal development will be encouraged in a supportive manner..

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult

Specialisms: Exclusively autism specific