Agincare Enable, supporting World Autism Week
Monday marked the start of#AutismAwarenessWeek!
It is estimated that there are 700,000 people in the UK who have autism – a life long condition that presents itself in different ways for each person. Our Agincare Enable service provides support for those who have an autistic spectrum condition, particularly where this presents in a complex way, such as Ashley.
Ashley first came to Napier Respite in 2019, before joining Napier Day Service in 2020.
Ashley thoroughly enjoys his time spent at Napier Day Service. When he is not fulfilling his (self-appointed) role of head of recycling, Ashley enjoys dancing, singing and joking, writing stories and playing bingo with support workers – in particular Michelle. Ashley asked Michelle to write about him, and after reading what she had written he said ‘you know me so well’ and gave a thumbs up.
Michelle said:
I started my job in the Day Service in September 2001 with Medway Council and was Tuped over to Agincare in 2015.
My favourite thing about supporting Ashley is that he has a great sense of humour and great banter. He can tell you everything about recycling. Ashley is always willing to help. He loves to play bingo especially if the prizes are good.
Some of the service users at Napier are non-verbal and express their feelings by body language. When I get a smile at the end of the day it makes my job worthwhile, knowing I have made them happy.
At Agincare Enable, we specifically focus on supporting those aged 16+ with a range of needs, particularly where these co-occur and present in a complex way. We support people with a range of needs such as learning disabilities, autistic spectrum conditions, mental health issues and physical disabilities.
Our specialist support is delivered in a variety of settings, including supported living services, community support, respite and day services. Being part of Agincare, a well-established support provider, we’re able to draw on experience built up across a range of services since 1986.
All members of the Agincare Enable support team receive comprehensive training that covers the key areas and has a specific learning disability and autism focus. In addition, they receive specialist training including Positive Behavioural Support, plus training in the latest de-escalation and communication techniques.
We also train our team to use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) techniques, such as Makaton, Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Proloquo2Go.
Our specialist training is externally validated and is central to our commitment to develop person-centred best practice, supporting you to achieve what’s important for you. We are proactive in the use of assistive technology.
