Person-centred. Strengths-based. Solution-focused.
Inclusive
Groups
Supporting neuro-inclusive social groups in North Devon. Offering peer support and social connections.
Person-centred. Strengths-based. Solution-focused.
Supporting neuro-inclusive social groups in North Devon. Offering peer support and social connections.
Inclusive Groups
We offer enjoyable activities with peers in a safe and well-supported space. See what is currently running below:
The AFAB Group
Peer support and social connections for 14-19 year old girls and those assigned a female gender at birth.
What is the AFAB Group?
This is a small social group for 14-19 year old autistic girls, and those assigned a female gender at birth (AFAB). These young people might be in or out of education, home educated or working – all are welcome.
Facilitated by specialist staff who are trauma-informed, the group offers these young people:
- peer support
- fun activities
- social connections
- personal development discussions
- visiting speakers with lived experience
- occasional outings
Our AFAB Gallery
Here is a collection of pictures, artwork, outings and other creative things we get up to on a Wednesday.
What are the benefits?
- a calm and accessible space.
- a sense of belonging.
- fun and enjoyment.
- solidarity.
- improved self-knowledge and self-acceptance.
- shared problem-solving and the comfort and reassurance that comes with that.
- friendship.
“The AFAB sessions have helped me by giving me more confidence to socialise with new people, and helped me grow as a person.”
How does it work?
- We meet on Wednesdays during term-time, from 1.00 – 2.30pm.
- Our venue is a calm, low sensory space in central Barnstaple.
- There are up to 10 people in the group, plus two specialist staff:
- We are immensely grateful for the funding we have had for this project to date from a range of grant-making bodies.
What are the costs?
There is a voluntary contribution of £3 per week.
There may be an additional charge for outings. These happen very occasionally and by agreement of the group.
What participants and caregivers say about the AFAB Group
The acceptance and shared experience of being with those my age who also struggle with some things and are able to excel in others.
I rarely get to talk to others my age or get to share my more personal interests and hobbies with others, the AFAB group gives me that opportunity
As someone who does not have a lot of opportunities to be social with people of my age group in my village, one of my favourite experiences with AFAB group is being able to talk with people my age and feeling welcomed.
This is the only place she feels comfortable being with other young people.
AFAB Frequently Asked Questions
Can I try the group out before I commit?
Of course you can. Please get in touch first, and you will be very welcome to drop in for all or part of a session to see what you think.
I’m feeling quite anxious: what if I’m not ready to join in?
There’s no pressure to speak or to participate in activities until you feel ready.
There is even an adjacent room to our main room: you are welcome to sit and listen in from a short distance first if you prefer.
It takes each of us a different amount of time to feel comfortable, so there’s no rush.
We also have mini whiteboards and pens if you prefer to communicate with us that way.
Do I need a diagnosis to join this group?
No! No diagnosis is necessary. We believe in meeting needs, more than labels.
Our latest blog posts
We are delighted to feature writing from our autistic service users, published quarterly with our newsletter.
There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in
Title quote by Leonard Cohen. About the AFAB Group We are a small social group of 14-19 year old autistic girls, and...
My journey – altruistic, non-directed living kidney donation
On December 13th 2022, I did the best thing I’ve ever done and maybe will ever do: I donated my right kidney to a...
Love, love the bright star you are
Poem and Artwork by Diane Melanie. @dianemelanie_I am sure life is more wonderful and precarious than we should ever...
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