Great new initiative for West Berks autistic and neurodiverse adults, children and their families to enjoy an active social life

ASD Family Help has set up a great new initiative for autistic and neurodiverse people and their families to support them in an active social life with sessions at Riverside Centre, Turnpike. And it is keen to spread the word, said West Berks activity leader Rosie Flower.

ASD Family Help is user led charity that offers support, advice and activities for autistic and neurodiverse individuals or those with learning disabilities (plus their parents, carers or professionals). The group of individuals and families have come together to build a supportive community in West Berkshire, and in Wokingham and Pembrokeshire.

The charity is open to all autistic individuals or those with associated conditions, for example dyslexia, dyspraxia, OCD, anxiety, PDA and ADHD.

The group provides a listening ear and shoulder to lean on and enables individuals to connect with other autistic or neurodiverse adults or parents and carers at drop-in sessions, to share experiences, find help and know that they are understood.

Teen clubs at Riverside (Turnpike) run from 4.45pm to 6.15pm on the fourth Tuesday of the month and cost £4 per child per session, which is payable half-termly. This inclusive monthly club is for young people aged 12 to 18 years who are neurodiverse or have additional needs (such as autism, dyslexia, anxiety, OCD, ADHD or learning difficulties). No diagnosis is required.

“Our main aim is to encourage socialising, making friends and getting out of the house for a while,” said Ms Flower.

The free Fun Club is on the second Tuesday of every month Riverside. No need to book in advance and no diagnosis is required. A monthly term-time session for children with additional needs and their families, it provides inclusive fun for the whole family. Children of all ages welcome – supervised by a parent or carer at all times.

“Our aim is to offer a safe, welcoming space for families to connect and play together,” Ms Flower explained.

“ Join us for fun craft activities, games, LEGO, and books! Our friendly staff and volunteers are here to guide you through our simple craft activity or simply enjoy time chatting with others.

“Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are provided for free.”

Active Club for fives to 18s, which meets every Thursday, from 5pm to 6pm at Riverside, costs £4 a session, payable half-termly.

This weekly fun sports/ games session is for children and young people with special educational needs (such as autism, dyslexia, anxiety, OCD, ADHD or learning difficulties).

“No diagnosis is required and siblings can attend. No serious sporting skills required and there are often no winners or losers!

“Our aim is to encourage having fun and being physically active together” added Ms Flower.

More information can be found at https://asdfamilyhelp.org/