Type of service: Interventions and therapies

The Birmingham Centre for Arts Therapies (BCAT) is an innovative charity, which was set up in 1993 to provide an accessible arts therapies service throughout the Midlands. The centre is unique in that it brings together art, drama, music and dance movement therapy in one centre which can be accessed both here and in an outreach capacity. Clients come from all over the Midlands, being referred by GP's, parents, carers or through self. Everyone has the ability to respond to the arts in many ways. Sometimes the arts provide a different perspective in which to respond to difficulties. BCAT allows people the chance to explore these difficulties, no matter what they may be, in a safe environment with a registered therapist who has been trained to offer support or encouragement. BCAT's therapists have experience of working with people on the autism spectrum. BCAT provides an outreach service throughout the Midlands. This can take place in schools, prisons, hospitals, homes for the elderly, day centres for those with physical and sensory disabilities etc - anywhere in which a safe environment can be created for the individual. Referrals may be made through education, health or social services, by private organisations, by parents and carers, or by individuals themselves.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Adult , Child

Covers: East Midlands, West Midlands

Specialisms: Generic, Staff and volunteers get autism awareness training

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability