Aspire

Options ProgrammeDiscover more about yourselfDevelop future goals Learn practical ways of managing your autism

Aspire deliver the Options programme for adults with Asperger Syndrome or Higher Functioning Autism. The programme is funded by Birmingham City Council to support people who are struggling to know what to do with their future. The programme offers 6 months of support to learn more about yourself, develop future goals and learn practical ways of managing your autism.

Your support whilst on the programme will include: • A personalised action plan • A personal profile • One to one sessions at the start and end of the programme to help you identify

and then move towards your goals • Group training sessions on personal development topics including:

• Planning for change • Volunteering • Social skills • Personal relationships • Employment • Confidence building • Team work • Health and wellbeing • Understanding autism • Managing anxiety • Managing anger • Personal safety

The support aims to empower service users to make decisions concerning their future life choices and wellbeing, promote independence, increase confidence and support individuals to go forward and work towards their future goals.

Outcomes can include increased travel confidence, volunteering placements, accessing social activities and support groups, referrals to colleges and employment programmes.

Why choose us?

Across the West Midlands we are the only autism specific provider of support. We have over 10 years experience in helping people with Asperger Syndrome to gain and sustain employment.

Our team’s expert autism knowledge means you and your disability will be fully understood. We take a person centered approach and embrace special interests. We adapt to your support needs in order to help you through the journey of gaining paid employment. We can provide further information and access to other Autism West Midlands services and events.

Our autism centre offers private and confidential meeting rooms, spacious training areas, an Autism library book facility and a fantastic sensory room.

Am I eligible?To be eligible to access the Options Programme with Autism West Midlands you must:

• Be 18 or older • Live in Birmingham • Have Asperger Syndrome or another diagnosis at the higher functioning end of the

Autistic Spectrum • Be willing to look at opportunities for your future • Able to commit to attending once a week for a period of 6 months • Be willing and motivated to engage in the programme

We will meet with you prior to starting the programme to discuss it in more detail, cover any questions you may have and to ensure that it is the right programme for you before signing up.

How to I find out more or access the programme?If you would like to find out more about what Aspire can offer you through the Options Programme please contact us.

We are happy to answer any questions you have.

By email: Aspire@autismwestmidlands.org.uk By phone: 0121 450 7582

About Autism West MidlandsThere are more than half a million people in the UK living with autism; an invisible, misunderstood and lonely disability. 60,000 live in the West Midlands.

We are the leading charity in the West Midlands for people affected by autism. We exist to enable all people with autism and those who love and care for them to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities, providing direct support to people affected by autism.

Contact usAspireAutism West MidlandsRegent CourtGeorge RoadEdgbastonBirminghamB15 1NU

Email:Aspire: aspire@autismwestmidlands.org.ukGeneral enquiries: hello@autismwestmidlands.org.uk

Telephone:Main reception: 0121 450 7582Information helpline: 0303 03 00 111

Website: www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk

Find us on Facebook: Search “Autism West Midlands”

Follow us on Twitter: @autismwestmids

Our vision is a world where all people on the autism spectrum have the specialist care and support they need to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.

Registered Charity Number: 517077Registered Company Number: 1953344 (England and Wales)