Type of service: Play and leisure, Local groups, Social skills

The Empathy 'Friendship Group' is a group for and about families, where everyone is encouraged to socialise and play. As parents we understand how difficult that is for some of our special children, we therefore work hard to meet their needs first and pride ourselves on being autism spectrum disorder (ASD) friendly. We aim to provide a safe, supported, empathic and relaxed environment for the whole family to socialise, interact and share their experiences. Playleaders are always on hand to support the children and carers in a range of paly and sports activities; providing a valuable opportunity to practice those tricky social skills and communications. The regular visitors to the group provide an opportunity to try something new with the support of understanding adults. Whilst giving carers half an hour respite to catch a coffee and talk to each other, visiting professionals and charities about further support opportunities. Whilst particularly suited to those in mainstream education, we welcome all children with additional needs and as a regular group we do not ask you to book in advance. If, however, you feel that your child needs one to one support to access the group successfully then please get in touch before you attend, to ensure that we understand and meet your family's needs. The Craven Arms group meets fortnightly (2nd & 4th Saturday) from 2pm-4pm and the Oswestry group meets fortnightly (1st & 3rd Saturday) from 10am-12pm..

Aimed at: Child , Child/adolescent sibling, Parent/carer of a child, Parent/carer of a young person, Young person

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements