Type of service: Respite and short breaks

Service URL: http://www.autismwessex.org.uk

The aim of Wessex Lodge is to enhance the quality of life of families of a child with autism spectrum disorder, and /or learning disability through the provision of a reliable, caring and flexible overnight short-break service. Services provided include regular overnight short-breaks, occasional short-breaks and emergency short-breaks.

This service is available to children and young people aged two to nineteen years who have a diagnosis of autistic spectrum disorder and /or learning/developmental disability. The service will accept referrals from young people who have severe challenging behaviour. It is provided by Autism Wessex who cater for autism and other developmental disorders, learning disabilities and associated mental health problems.

Wessex Lodge can provide short breaks for up to a maximum of four young people at any given time however the number of young people accommodated on any one night will reflect their assessed needs. Emergency referrals will be accepted subject to the service having undertaken a full assessment of need, being able to meet that need and for a maximum stay of three nights.

Wessex Lodge also has access to the facilities at Portfield School such as the sensory room, playground and therapy pool. Whilst at Wessex Lodge Young people also access a broader range of community based activities such as Moors Valley, Swanage railway, bowling, cinema, Paltons Park, and Wimborne market using our own people carrier.

Referrals can be either direct from parents/carers or through social services.

Aimed at: Adolescent , Child

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability