Cygnet: Parenting Support Programme
7 week programme (sessions lasting between 2.5-3 hours)
Dates and locations to be announced soon
What is Cygnet? A parenting support programme for parents and carers of autistic children and young people ages 5-18.
What is available? The opportunity to develop their understanding of autism and look at practical solutions to support their child/young person. It is also an opportunity to meet other people in a similar position.
What topics will be covered? Sensory processing and thinking differences, social interaction and communication differences, understanding and supporting behaviour.
How do I register? Contact awtistiaeth@gwynedd.llyw.cymru to put your name on the waiting list or hear more.
Support for children and families
Cyngor Gwynedd works in partnership with BCUHB to provide sessions for parents of children with additional learning needs to come together for a cuppa and a chat. Anyone can attend the session, and no diagnosis is required. There will be an opportunity to discuss with professionals and to meet other parents and to share experiences. For more information contact:
Support is also available from:
- Supporting families
- Autistic Girls | Autistic Girls Network
- Resources for autistic teenagers
- Autistic Parents UK
Further support for adults
The Autism Integrated Service provides information, advice and support to autistic adults and to parents of autistic children:
General support
- Cyngor Gwynedd Social Services
- North Wales integrated Autism Service: Support and resources to help autistic people understand their diagnosis of autism, as well as running drop-in sessions and training courses for adults recently diagnosed with autism.
- Dewis Cymru
- Disability Rights UK
- Asking for reasonable adjustments (autism.org.uk)
- Citizens Advice
Living independently
- Gisda: Opportunities for young people to live independently
- Cyngor Gwynedd: Help to live independently: Information about the support available
- Cyfle
Sensory
Processing everyday sensory information can be difficult for autistic people. Any of their senses may be over- or under-sensitive, or both, at different times. These sensory differences can affect how they feel and act, and can have a profound effect on a person’s life.
To learn more about sensory differences see the information below:
- Sensory differences (autism.org.uk)
- Sensory overload and autism: a guide for parents | Ambitious about Autism
- Create a sensory diet for your neurodivergent child | YoungMinds
Autism and communication
Many autistic people have difficulties associated with social communication and social interaction. Such difficulties often stem from others not having the understanding or experience when it comes to communicating with autistic people.
To learn more about communication and Social interaction see the information below:
- Awtistiaeth a Deall Sut i Gyfathrebu’n Effeithiol - Awtistiaeth Cymru
- Communication (autism.org.uk)
- Autism and communication - BeyondAutism
- Communication tips (autism.org.uk)
Support for parents and carers
- Carers Outreach Service North West Wales: Find out about the support for carers and parents of autistic children.
Mental health
- Cyngor Gwynedd mental health service
- CALL Helpline: Offer a listening ear to neurodivergent individuals, their families and carers.
- I CAN Community Hubs: Local mental health support drop-in sessions across Gwynedd.