dash information directory of services
TRANSCRIPT
Directory of Services Adults with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC)
December 2012
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Acknowledgements
The publication of this Directory of Services was sponsored by Swindon and District NAS; the local branch of the National Autistic Society.The Directory of Services is an update of the online directory compiled by DASH (Discovering Autism Spectrum Happiness), which is a local registered charity for adults with ASC. Thanks to DASH for sharing the information that they gathered in 2008.Thanks to SEQOL who further resourced and supported the directory.This Directory is not sponsored by those services included, but thank you to service providers for time given to update service entries.
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We would appreciate updates and feedback from Directory users about services that you know who have knowledge and experience of working with adults with ASC, so that the Directory of Services
can be extended– please contact Directory Author.
Directory author: [email protected]
The photographic images included in this document were kindly provided by Chloe Grubb.
Contents pageAssessment and Diagnosis
Swindon Autism Team (SEQOL)Advocacy
DASH (Discovering Autism Spectrum HappinessSAM (Swindon Advocacy Movement)
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SUNSWiltshire Autism Alert Card
Benefits and Legal Advice
Care LineCommunity Care AssessmentThe Advice PointCitizens Advice Bureau (CAB)Wiltshire Law CentreThe Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust
Carers
Swindon and District NASSCAASSwindon Carers CentreThe Marriage CourseTime4US
Content page continuedEducation
New CollegeFarleigh Further Education CollegeSwindon College
Support Services
SamaritansLIFT Psychology
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Swindon Listening LineMental Health Crisis ServicePASHSWADSSwindon MindCreative TherapiesSolution Focussed Brief TherapySwindon Eating Disorder Recovery GroupDeveloping Health and Independence (DHI)Gamblers AnonymousNational Bullying Helpline
Employment Support
Job Centre PlusRichmond Fellowship and employment Service SwindonSEQOL Employment ServicesNAS Prospects
Housing
Supporting People
Content page continued
Social and Leisure
Learning for LifeSwindon Health Ambassadors
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Challenge SwindonHop, Skip and Jump
Volunteering
Wildflower NurseriesVolunteer Centre Swindon
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A ssessment and Diagnosis
Swindon Autism Team – SEQOLClarence House,Euclid Street, Swindon,SN1 2 JHTelephone: 01793 463333
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Email: [email protected]
Description of Service
The SEQOL Autism team are a team of professionals who have training and experience in working with adults with autism and also adults with learning disabilities.They provide a diagnostic service, to adults (those aged 18 and over) who may have an Autism Spectrum Condition, in Swindon, Oxford and Wiltshire.The team includes Speech and Language Therapists, Clinical Psychologists, Nursing, Occupational Therapists and a Social Worker with good links with other relevant services. The service provides assessment, a clinical report, diagnostic feedback, a follow-up support session, signposting and recommendations tailored to the needs of each individual.
Access to Service:
Referrals are made by your GP (Doctor), but if you want to talk to the team first, or if you want your GP to talk to the team about a referral and the benefits of assessment, contact Sue Smith (SEQOL Professional Lead) on the contact details above.
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Advocacy
Discovering Autistic Spectrum Happiness (DASH)Registered office: 284 Marlborough Road,
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SwindonSN3 1NRTel: 01793 692596 or 07796 530 560Email: [email protected]
Description of Service:DASH is an independent local charity whose mission is to improve the quality of life of adults of working age with Asperger’s and high functioning autism (HFA) living in Swindon.Our primary aims are to:Raise awareness and understanding of Asperger’s/HFA;Promote and enhance access to assessment and diagnosis, post diagnostic support, welfare and care, housing, education and employment;Research, promote and help to deliver a local model of support and services.And in this way, help people with Asperger’s enjoy safer, healthier, more sociable, more productive and happier lives.Services currently available from DASH are: Information and advice, Advocacy, Social groups Volunteering opportunities. We can also support individuals to access other services and opportunities in the wider community. Access to Service:Application forms for DASH social groups and volunteering opportunities are available to download from www.dashswindon.com
SAM – Swindon Advocacy Movement
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Area 5, Second FloorTemple House115-118 Commercial RoadSwindonSN1 5PLTelephone: 01793 [email protected] of Service
This is an independent advocacy service for people with learning disabilities and Autism (including Asperger’s syndrome). SAM empowers people to take control of their lives and to enable people to communicate the things that they want and need. This can include liaising with services, helping people to understand letters and information and challenging situations that are not appropriate.The service includes a Transition Advocacy Project, a men’s group and a Buddy scheme.Access to Service:You can either telephone or visit SAM offices (details above). There is also a referral form on the SAM website for referral to the adult service
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Service User Network Swindon (SUNS)161 Victoria RoadSwindonSN1 3BUTel: 01793 436174 (plus answering service)Email: [email protected] of Service:
SUNS is a local registered charity and independent voluntary organisation managed by mental health service users for service users. It is a founder member of DASH.SUNS aim is to support, train and encourage mental health service users to speak out about their experiences of the local mental health services. SUNS increasingly has a role in the performance monitoring of local services and sends representatives to strategic planning groups and service improvement / development forums. SUNS is also involved in the recruitment of staff into mental health services, staff induction and other training.Members of SUNS are encouraged to take part in the work of the organisation and are supported to do this.SUNS also offers: ●individual advocacy and sign-posting to other services; ●a range of social and leisure activities for service users.Access to Service:
SUNS has experience of supporting individuals with a diagnosis of Asperger’s, co-morbid with mental health
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issues and welcomes enquires about SUNS work and activities.
The Wiltshire Autism Alert Cardwww.autismalertwilts.comemail: [email protected] of Service
The primary aims of the Autism Alert Card are to:Help young people and adults with an autistic spectrum condition who come into contact with the criminal justice system and emergency services to receive appropriate support in difficult situations;Raise awareness and understanding of autistic spectrum conditions amongst professionals working in the criminal justice system and emergency services.The card is designed to be carried in a wallet or purse at all times.The person carrying a card should show it to people when they find themselves in a difficult situation and are feeling stressed. The police and other services / organisations should respond to the card by contacting a named person listed on the back of the card. This will to help the professional to respond appropriately to the card-holder and at the same time enable to card-holder to receive support from someone they trust.The card has been produced by a partnership of Swindon and District Branch of the National Autistic
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Society, DASH (Discovering Autistic Spectrum Happiness) and Wiltshire Constabulary.Access to service If you, or someone you know, would like a card please complete an application form. This can be downloaded from the website or you can email: [email protected] or you can call 01793 770079 for more information.As you will see from the form you are required to include some evidence that you have an autistic spectrum condition or provide contact details of someone who can confirm this.All personal details requested in the application form will be held in accordance with the Data Protection Act and will not be passed to any third party without seeking your explicit consent.The card is free, but please note that if you lose your card there is a fee of £1 for a replacement card.
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Benefits/Legal Advice
Care line15
Swindon Borough CouncilFreephone: 0800 085 66 66 (note it is not free from some mobile phones)Email: [email protected] of service
Care Line is a local service providing information to older people, adults with physical disabilities and carers.Care Line will help you to get information that you need and access appropriate services, such as:Equipment and Adaptations for Daily LivingHelp at homeSupport for carersResidential and Nursing Home CarePaying for Care ServicesSafety at HomeConcerns about abuseSocial activitiesBenefit agenciesSignposting to other agenciesAccess to Service:
Opening Times:Monday-Thursday 08.30-5.00pm Friday 08.30-4.30pm (Closed weekends and Bank Holidays)
Community Care AssessmentSocial Services
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Swindon Borough CouncilThe Civic officesSwindonSN1 2JHTel: Free phone 0800 085 66 66Customer services: www.swindon.gov.uk/socialcare
Description of Service:Care Assessments A care assessment is an opportunity to discuss your circumstances and needs; find out about any problems you are having; help you find solutions to these; and arrange community care services if these are needed. There is no cost for the assessment.Who Completes the Assessment It will be completed by a professional such as a social worker, care manager, occupational therapist or district nurse.Who is Entitled to Receive Care Adult Social Care has to provide community care services to people in the greatest need. In order to decide if you are able to receive such help we have an eligibility criteria. This ensures that we are providing services fairly to all of the public.Cost of CareYou may be required to make a contribution to the cost of your care. Any charges are based on Swindon Adult Social Care charging policy. A financial assessment will be completed with you.
The Advice Point
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George Hall CourtCavendish SquarePark SouthSwindonSN3 2LZTel: 01793 487934Email: [email protected]: 01793 619877
Description of Service:
The Advice Point offers free, confidential and non-judgemental help and advice on a whole variety of issues:●debt●employment●housing ●welfare benefits.The staff will help to complete forms and write letters on your behalf, and represent you at Tribunals, County Courts, etc.
Access to Service:
Call in to make an appointment : Monday – Friday 9.30am – 3.30pm Or Telephone 487934 for an appointment between 9am – 3.30pm Monday – Friday.
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Swindon & District Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Faringdon House1 Faringdon RoadSwindonSN1 5ARPublic advice line: 08444 994 114Fax no: 01793 613270Email: [email protected] guide website: www.adviceguide.org.ukCAB Outreach at North Swindon Advice Point is based at:Pinetrees Community CentreThe CirclePinehurstSwindonSN2 1QRTel: 01793 463226
Description of Service:
CAB offers free, confidential, independent and impartial advice on virtually any matter including: debt, welfare benefits, housing, employment, family and personal matters, immigration & nationality; consumer, taxes, health, education, legal issues / procedures.
We provide advice and practical assistance in addressing your problems, are able to negotiate on behalf of clients by letter or telephone and are able to assist you with the completion of forms and applications. We are able to assist you with preparing a case and may be able to represent you at a Court or
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Tribunal hearing.
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Wiltshire Law CentreTemple House115 – 118 Commercial RoadSwindonSN1 5PLTel: 01793 486926Fax: 01793 432193Minicom: 01793 611326Email: [email protected]
Description of Service:
The Wiltshire Law Centre is a registered charity established in 1981 to provide free advice in social welfare law to people in and around Swindon. 27 years on, the Law Centre continues to offer free legal advice in: ●welfare benefits●housing●debtThe Centre will assist with benefit appeals and offer representation at tribunals and court hearings.Housing advice is available to both council and private tenants and advice covers a wide range of housing issues – quality of accommodation, mortgage arrears, and repossession. All aspects of debt such as council tax arrears, loans, bankruptcy and dealing with bailiffs.Access to Service:Opening hours are Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm.Appointments can be made by telephoning 486926.
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The Wiltshire Bobby Van TrustChippenham Police StationWood LaneChippenhamWiltshireSN15 3DHTelephone: 01225 794652Email: [email protected]: www.witshirebobbyvan.org.uk
Service Description
The trust strives to help people in Wiltshire and Swindon by:Improving security of domestic premises occupied by the elderly, vulnerable or disadvantaged to prevent burglary, hate crime and abuseReducing incidence of repeat burglary and re-victimisationPromoting awareness of the safety, detection and preventionOffering reassurance and advice on crime reduction, and sign posting other agencies that may be of assistance to clients’ particular needs.
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Carers
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Swindon and District National Autistic SocietyBranch officerSally GrubbNAS Swindon and District BranchSwindon Wiltshire [email protected]
Service Description
The branch provides social events, offers information and advice, support and signposting to relevant services. The branch is run by a committee of representatives from different well established autism related groups, as well as professionals, parents and people with Asperger’s syndrome/autism.Families, adults and children are represented.
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Support for Carers of Adults with Asperger’s in Swindon( SCAAS) C/o Swindon Carers Centre 1 Wood StreetSwindonSN1Tel: 01793 531133 Or contact Sally Grubb: 01797 770079Email: [email protected]
Description of Service:
SCASS is essentially a self-help support group and was formed to help those who are involved in the care of adults who have Asperger Syndrome (AS) residing within the Borough of Swindon (although members do include those residing in the nearby villages, including North Wiltshire). The definition of AS includes 'High-Functioning Autism' or HFA.SCAAS believes that each person with AS is an individual in their own right with their own strengths, difficulties, ambitions and dreams. We also believe that as a consequence of their condition they share common ‘areas of difference’.
Access to Service:For further information about the group please visit our website at:www.communigate.co.uk/wilts/scaas/index.phtml
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Swindon Carers Centre1 Wood StreetSwindonSN1 4ANTel: 01793 531133Email: [email protected]
Description of Service:
Swindon Carers Centre is there to help carers, by making their carer role more manageable. If carers feel supported themselves, they are far more likely to be able to support the person they care for.The service helps through:A registration processProviding informationSignposting to relevant organisationsOne to one support e.g. accessing servicesBenefits adviceAccess to Breaks and Complementary TherapiesTraining sessions and Self Help Groups
Access to Service
The Swindon Carers Centre is open Monday-Thursday 09.30-4.30pm Friday 09.30 to 12 pm
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The Marriage CourseGateway ChurchThe Trinity CentreStonehill GreenWestleaSN5 7ARInformation or for an online application form: www.gatewaychurchswindon.org.ukCourse Description
The Marriage course is a 7 week course suitable for any couple who want to invest in their relationship- whether you have been together for 1 year or 61 years, whether your relationship is strong or struggling. Course leaders have been trained to work with adults with ASC.
Course calendar available online.Time 7.30pm-9.45pm
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Time4US13 Milton StreetSwindonSN1 5JETelephone 01793 [email protected]
Service Description
Time4US is a service that is part of the Swindon and Wiltshire Alcohol and Drug Service and is just for carers of people with alcohol and drug problems.The service offers support, groups, information and advice to make things easier for people in their caring role. In addition there are guest speakers, one to one counselling and a non-judgemental place to meet and talk.
Access to Service:
Monday Evening groups- 6.30-8.30pm (apart from Bank Holidays)Use contact details provided above to learn more about the timetable of events and support available for individuals.
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Education
New CollegeNew College, Swindon
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New College Drive,SwindonSN3 1AH
Tel: 01793 611470Email: [email protected] or for specific enquiries with regards to additional support email [email protected] Service Description
Support for students with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) on full time programmesThe College can provide:
Social and communication skills – AD IDEM ‘meeting of minds’ provides a social curriculum that aims to improve self-awareness skills and prepare ASC students for the social world they live in. The group provides a safe and structured forum so that friendships can develop and issues can be discussed in a non-threatening environment.
1:1 specialist tuition from qualified and specialist teachers,
1:1 in class support – to support note-taking, understanding, organisation and appropriate social skills etc,
supported study – outside of timetabled classes,30
Independent Living Skills – home cooking skills and personal finance.
The College is also developing new qualification based programmes to be delivered during term holidays.The Baseroom
The Baseroom is equipped with PCs, laptops, games, a relaxation area and a small kitchenette. The Baseroom provides a social space and supported study area; there is trained member of staff on duty in the Baseroom to help with any coursework or anxieties students may have. The Baseroom also has four Pod Chairs which allow the students to withdraw and experience relative silence which helps to reduce anxiety.
Please be aware that if you are between 16 and 18 years of age and you feel that your additional needs cannot be met by your local college you must contact your school SENCo or the Education Department at your local authority for advice as soon as possible.
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Farleigh Further Education College (Priory Group)Fairview43 Bath Road,Old Town,Swindon,Wiltshire,SN1 4ASTelephone: 01793 719500Email: [email protected]
Service DescriptionFarleigh Further Education College is an Independent provider of education for students aged 16-19 + years with Autism spectrum conditions and other associated diagnoses.The College providesFurther education in academic and vocational coursesIntensive programmes (1-3 years)Prep for employment and Higher EducationSupport to develop strategies for dealing with anxietyEducation, social and development programmesIndependent living skills
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Swindon CollegeNorth Star CampusNorth Star AvenueSwindonSN2 1DYTelephone: 0800 731 2250Online contact form available at www.swindon-college.ac.uk
Service Description
Swindon College offers courses for mature students interested in part time study for hobbies and interests and gaining professional qualifications through their Part time course guide.Swindon College have skills and support for learners with Autism Spectrum Conditions.
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Support Services
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SamaritansSwindon & District Samaritans6 Curtis StreetSwindonSN1 5JUOffice tel: 01793 512490 Helpline: 01793 537373
Description of Service:
Samaritans are there to offer you confidential support when things are too much and you feel desperate and alone. They will listen to how you feel, no matter what the reason is. They say that they won't tell you what to do and won't tell anyone about you or about your call unless that is what you want. You don't even have to give them you name. They will call you back if you prefer.
Access to Service:
24 hours a day every day of the year.National helpline: 08457 90 91 92 Email: [email protected] telephone helpline: 01793 537373; or Drop into your local branch at 6 Curtis Street to meet with a Samaritans volunteer face to face.
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LIFT Psychology in Swindon and WiltshireSwindon2nd FloorOld Town Surgery,Curie AvenueSwindonSN14GBTelephone: 01793 836836
Service Description
Support through GP surgeries to people with common emotional, communication and mental health difficulties. LIFT (Least Intervention First time) offers a range of services from self-help therapies, to psychoeducational courses and one to one support.
Access to Service: GP (Doctor) referral.Opening Times: Monday to Thursday 9am-5.30pmFriday 9am-5pm
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Swindon Listening LineOpen from 6pm – 12pm, 7 days a week
Description of Service:
We are a free and confidential listening service offering a friendly ear and emotional support.Feeling stressed or worried? Don't know who to turn to? Call us before it becomes a crisis!We will talk to you about whatever is troubling you – work, family, stress, depression, your mental health, money worries etc.We are a free and confidential listening service and whilst we cannot give advice, we will offer a friendly ear and emotional support.
A ccess to Service Call us on 01793 836871Call or text us on 07850 708317. (If your phone credit is low, we are happy to call you back).Email us at [email protected]
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Mental Health Crisis ServiceSandalwood CourtHighworth RoadSwindonSN3 4WFTelephone: 01793 836807
Description of Service:
The Crisis Service is for people experiencing acute mental distress for the first time and existing mental health service users.The service can be contacted for:●advice over the telephone about what to do; ●access to an assessment of a person's mental health needs; and ●follow up treatment at home;●access to Oak Lodge (Crisis respite house); and if necessary ●admission to Sandalwood Court Psychiatric hospital as a place of safety.
Access to Service:
Telephone: 01793 836807
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PASH (Preservation around Self Harm)14 Milton RoadSwindonSN1 5JETelephone: 01793 649510Mobile: 07796 196459Email: [email protected]
Information at : www.pashswindon.org.uk
Service Description
PASH offers a free and confidential service directing people away from self-harming/injuring behaviour towards self-help.There is a wide range of information, advice and professional support in a support in a safe and comfortable environment or by telephone.Access to Service:Appointments Monday-Friday 09.00-3.30pmOffice Hours (Phone Calls) 09.00-5pmOne to one support by appointment only.
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SWADS13 Milton RoadSwindonSN1 5JETelephone: 01793 [email protected]
Service Description
Swindon and Wiltshire Alcohol and Drug Service (SWADS) offer a wide range of advice and professional support in a safe and comfortable environment or by telephone. The service is designed for people aged 18 years and over. Services include Uturn, Stepping Forward and On Trac (youth counselling)
Access to Service:Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9.00-5.00pmEvening Counselling Appointments 6.00pm-9pm; Saturday counselling appointments: 10.00am-2pm
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SWINDON MINDRegent Circus,SwindonSN1 1PNTelephone: 01793 432031Email: [email protected]
Service Description
The aims of the organisation are to provide accessible services to anyone from Swindon who experiences emotional distress, to reduce stigma and discrimination and to raise awareness of mental health issues.Services include Advocacy, solution focussed sessions to identify strengths and skills to aid recovery from emotional distress.
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Creative TherapiesThe Mer Ka Barn, Sindles FarmEmsworth Common RoadHampshire PO10 8QS0785 7733880
Service Description:
Internet Skype service providing online counseling. Perry is experienced in working with people with ASC, Carer’s and support staff. It is a suitable approach for people with Autism, anxiety, low self esteem and relationships.
Access to Service
Email [email protected] is free to installSessions cost £40 for 50 minutes, via a paypal account.
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Solution Focussed Brief Therapy (SFBT)Claire McNeillTel:Email:
Service Description:
SFBT; provided by Claire McNeil, a qualified Speech and Language Therapist with a postgraduate diploma in SFBT, is a solution focused approach to working (rather than focusing on problems). It is goal directed, future focused and is increasingly being used with success with adults with ASC.
Access to Service:
Contact Claire McNeil on the above contact details.
Claire is an independent Practitioner and sessions incur a fee.
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Swindon Eating Disorders Recovery GroupThe Health HydroMilton RoadSwindonSN1 5JATel: 01793 511064Email: [email protected]
Description of service:
The Eating Disorder Recover Group supports men and women wishing to recover from an eating disorder. We also welcome family, friends and carers of people with an eating disorder. The group is for adults over 18 or young people 16-18 accompanied by a responsible adult each time they attend.
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Access to service:
Tel: enquiries 01793 511064Email: enquiries as above.
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Developing Health and Independence (DHI)The Old School HouseMaxwell StreetSwindonSN1 5DRTelephone: 01793 617177 Freephone: 0800 9704830Email: [email protected]
Service Description
DHI is a local charity that was set up in 1999 to help people out of the cycle of homelessness, social isolation and drug or alcohol abuse.DHI deals with health and emotional wellbeing, as well as practical issues such as housing, social isolation and lack of basic education and employment skills.Specialist services available including: Advice, Outreach, Day Care, Group sessions, Counselling, Resettlement, Supported Housing, Criminal Justice Services, Aftercare, Alternative Therapies, Employment and Social Enterprise Available.Access to Service:
New clients can now drop-in to our premises at The Old School House on Maxwell Street anytime between 10am-2pm from Monday to Friday or they can setup a formal appointment with our triage worker by calling 01793 617177. Team Leader
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Mike Strathdee manages the DHI Swindon team. [email protected] Mobile: 07917 738 250
Gamblers Anonymousc/o Gorsehill Community CentreChapel Street GorsehillSwindonSN2 8DATel: 020 7384 3040 or 0121 233 1335Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org.uk
Description of service:
This is a service for anyone who has a desire to stop gambling. The 12 step programme offers a simple guide to living life without gambling which can be used or interpreted in any way the member chooses.
Access to service:
Meetings are open access and there are no fees. Meetings take place in Swindon at Gorsehill Community Centre at the following times:Tuesdays 7pm – 9pm;Wednesdays 7pm – 9pm;Sundays 2pm – 4pm every 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month.
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Alternatively you can call a Gamblers Anonymous helpline 24 hours per day and your call will be answered by someone who has been a compulsive gambler: London 020 7384 3040 / Birmingham 0121 233 1335
National Bullying HelplineHelpline: 0845 22 55 787Open:Monday – Friday: 10am - 4pm.Saturday: 10am - 2pm.www.nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk
Description of service:
A free and confidential telephone helpline dealing with bullying in any context.Set up by a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development in response to the incidence of bullying in the workplace.
Access to service: Telephone helpline: 0845 2255 787
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Swindon Living OptionsCONTACTTelephone 01793537588Former Even Swindon School, Hugh Street, Swindon
Description of Service:
Living Options is a managed unit of Scope, the national charity for people with Cerebral Palsy.We support disabled adults with any physical disability residing in the Swindon area to identify and achieve their personal goals.We help by providing:Social Inclusion
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Mentoring Support Sport & Leisure Activities Training Courses Consultation with statutory agencies re disability issues Signposting to other agencies Partnership Working Volunteering Opportunities Fundraising If you would like to contact us, learn more about our history, find out about our funding, donate towards activities, or refer someone to us please click on the appropriate link.
Access to Service:Disability Information ServicesWe operate a telephone helpline for anyone with a disability related question, including:Specialist equipment and adaptations Disability benefits such as Incapacity Benefit or Disability Living Allowance Disability rights Accessible travel and holidays Employment legislation for disabled people
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If we cannot provide the answer we signpost the caller to the appropriate agency. This section also offers a directory of organisations that may be able to help, and a resource library providing information on a range of impairments.
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Employment Support
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Job Centre PlusSpring Gardens HousePrinces Street,SwindonWiltshireSN1 2HYTelephone: 0845 604 3719www.dwp.gov.uk
Service Description
Jobcentre Plus is part of the Department of work Pensions. It provides services that support people of working age from welfare into work.
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Richmond Fellowship Swindon & Wiltshire Employment Service2 Little London CourtAlbert StreetSwindon SN1 3HY01793 433571
Email: [email protected]: www.richmondfellowship.org.uk
Description of service
Richmond Fellowship (RF) is a specialist provider of mental health services, and one of the biggest voluntary sector providers of mental health care in England.We help people with mental health problems to look and apply for paid work or other job-related opportunities such as voluntary work or training. For those in employment we can provide assistance on managing workplace stress and staying in work.
We also give guidance and advice to employers of people with mental health problems, including tools on avoiding workplace stress.
All our help and advice is impartial and confidential.Employment Advisers will work together with service users to help identify employment needs and goals then agree the way forward, which might include individual Support Plans. Every Support Plan is different but might include:Preparing a CV
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Practicing interviewsKnowing your skillsWriting a return to work planHow to communicate assertivelyUnderstanding unhelpful thoughts or building resilienceWe also offer our Service Users group training sessions, IT courses and a weekly Jobclub
The service is for people who:
Are 18 years of age or overLive or work in Swindon or Wiltshire (services may vary by area)Have a mental health problem - including stress, anxiety and depression (we can provide support to people who also have Asperger’s Syndrome) who want to look for work opportunities (paid or unpaid) or want help to stay in their current job
How to applyYou can refer yourself. We also accept referrals from GPs, Community Mental Health Teams, Primary Care Psychology Services, employers, voluntary sector services and many more.
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SEQOL Employment OpportunitiesEnergy2work Enterprise worksCatering
Service Description
SEQOL supported employment services seek to provide training and support for people with disabilities in Swindon.Energy2work is an award winning support and training service. SEQOL Catering trains people for opportunities in the Catering industry.Enterprise works is a factory, trade counter and shop, offering timber, packaging, assembly and signage amongst other products.
Access to service:Unit 1a Gipsy lane,Swindon,SN2 8DTTelephone: 01793 616288
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Prospects Employment support (National Autistic Society)LondonTelephone: 020 7704 [email protected]
Service Description
Prospects are an employment and training service for people with an autism spectrum condition who wish to work. The aim is to provide the same training and employment opportunities as non-disabled people. Prospects also work with employers to help with recruitment, training and retention of staff with ASC.
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Housing
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Supporting People Swindon Borough CouncilCivic OfficesEuclid StreetSwindonSN1 2JHwww.swindon.gov.uk/housing-supportingpeople.Tel: 01793 464472
Description of Service:
Supporting People aims to make sure people get the housing related support they need to live more independently. It is for anyone who needs more support to live more independently, for example:Difficulty coping because of ageBeing homelessDrug/alcohol related problemsMental Health problemsPhysical or sensory disabilityThe service covers housing related support services, such as help with cooking skills, paying bills and budgeting
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Social and Leisure
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Learning for Life Ground Floor1 Milton RoadSwindonSN1 5JE01793 422964email: [email protected]: L4L Facebook page
Description of Service:
Personal Development Courses (life, work and therapeutic) continuous personal development reviews, counselling and guidance.Available for individuals that have a disability and carers aged 18 + Options and choices include:Communication SkillsUsing numbers in everyday lifeIntro to internet and emailLife skills, stress management and relaxationTai Chi and Pain reliefOne to One CounsellingImproving your Personal EffectivenessArts and CraftsManaging your EmotionsImproving Your Relationships
Access to Service
Visit our website to find out about current workshops and courses: www.L4Lswindon.co.uk or telephone 01793 422964
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Swindon Health AmbassadorsTelephone: 07824 868437Email:[email protected]
Service Description
The Swindon Health Ambassadors can help you with:Healthy eating and working towards a healthy weightBecoming more physically activeStopping smokingSensible drinkingImproving your sexual healthReducing stress
Access to service:Venues across Swindon at various times for “drop in sessions”. Contact Peter Kent on the mobile number above for a location that is convenient for you.
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Challenge SwindonTelephone: 01793 465404Mobile: 07557 197226Email: [email protected]
Service Description
Challenge Swindon is a programme of initiatives and events that have been developed by Swindon Borough Council Leisure Services.A range of community based sport and leisure activities including cycling, disability sports, sports coaching for young people and exercise for older age groups. Programmes are also designed to assist people to improve health and well-being, from weight management to cardio care.
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Hop Skip & JumpUpper Shaw Ridge FarmRidge GreenSwindonSN5 5PUSwindon contact: 01793 077175Mobile: 07557435012
Description of service:
Play and Respite Centre providing flexible, immediate and sustained day care for children and young adults who have life limiting illnesses, disabilities or any additional needs
Access to service:Service for people aged 0-25 yearsOpen Monday to Saturday every week, offering respite sessions throughout the day.
Email: [email protected]
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Volunteering
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The Wildflower NurseryThe Wildflower Nursery is a social enterprise set up by DASH for the production and sale of wildflowers. It provides opportunities for volunteering.The Nursery currently produces about 30 varieties of wildflowers from seed and seedlings provided by our on-site neighbour and partner – FAB (Wildflowers And Butterflies) and we have already provided plants for several areas in Swindon. We share TWIGS Open Days in April, June and September and sell direct to the public.Volunteers are needed to work 'hands-on' sowing seeds, pricking them out, planting and watering. No horticultural experience is required although patience and care is needed to handle the seeds and small plantlets. There is no 'heavy' gardening but we do sometimes get involved in planting up a site with the wildflowers. Knowledge of wildflowers isn't necessary but this is probably something that you will learn about as you go along. DIY skills could be useful as there may be some opportunities to help construct wooden boxes and trugs in which to market the wild flowers; and even 'origami' skills – to help make our own seed packets! Marketing skills would be a bonus to help sell the concept of growing wildflowers not just in open spaces but also in our herbaceous borders!!
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Access to Service:
Further details contact DASH at the details at the start of this section.
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Volunteer Centre Swindon 1 John Street SwindonSN1 1RTTel: 01793 420557Email: [email protected]: www.swindonvolunteers.org.uk
Description of Service:The Volunteer Centre Swindon is a registered charity that provides free guidance for anyone looking for volunteering opportunities.They promote volunteering as a great way to: ●learn new skills;●meet new people;●boost your confidence;●make a difference;●have fun;Volunteering can also provide you with a reference for work if you are hoping to move into employment.Their staff will help match your interests, time available and distance to travel to local volunteering vacancies.
Access to Service:Volunteer Centre Swindon offers a drop-in session between 11am – 3pm Monday to Friday, or you can make an appointment for outside of these times. We can meet with you in our confidential interview room and offer you a selection of volunteering opportunities to suit you.It is also possible to search the national do-it.org.uk website for a volunteering opportunity in your local area.
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