Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition affecting how a person’s brain works. It can affect people in different ways, so it’s often called a “spectrum” disorder, meaning that autistic individuals can have a wide range of strengths and challenges.
Autistic people may have difficulty with social interaction and communication. They might find it hard to understand and respond to social cues, like facial expressions or body language. This can make it challenging for them to make friends or have conversations.
Autism can also involve repetitive behaviours or interests. Some individuals may have specific routines they like to follow and become upset if there are changes to their routines.
They might have intense interests in certain topics and want to learn everything they can about them.
Sensory sensitivities are also common in autism. Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain sounds, lights, textures, or tastes. For example, a loud noise that doesn’t bother most people might be very uncomfortable or overwhelming for an autistic person. It is important to consider sensory stimulations in a person’s environment.
Positive behaviour support (PBS) is an approach that can greatly benefit autistic people by promoting their well-being, reducing challenging behaviours, and enhancing their quality of life.
How does Autism Support work in practice?
Our Autism Service Care Manager will come and visit the person requiring care in their home environment.
They start with an in-depth assessment, which is completed with each person and their circle of support. We look at individual routines, activity support, sensory needs, behaviours of concern, communication, nutritional needs, and the environment. From this, we create a personalised PBS care plan, activity timetable, communication passport, and nutrition plan. We also look if any environmental changes would benefit the person’s sensory needs.
Transitions can be difficult for autistic people, and we use all the information gathered to plan a gradual and smooth transition when our support is introduced, considering individual needs.
MedUKCare will put in place a small team of well-trained and supported staff, who are inducted specifically with the individual.
We consider continuity of care and consistency to be vital components in providing the best support for autistic people.
Our Care Managers have 15+ years’ experience of working in specialist autism support services and work closely with the staff team to ensure that the right support is in place.
To find out more about our Autism services, call us today on 020 7993 4807