A support programme for parents and carers of children and young people, aged 5-18, who are autistic.
Parents of autistic children face the usual positive and difficult challenges of parenting and quite a few more. Attending a Cygnet autism support programme gives parents and carers an opportunity to develop their understanding of autism and consider ways to support their child.
It also provides the opportunity to meet other people in a similar position and hear about their experiences in an informal but supportive atmosphere.
Facebook: CygnetAutismSupport
Increased knowledge of Autism.
Further, understand your child’s perspective and view on the world.
Develop a practical strategies that can be beneficial to your child.
Direct you to relevant support and resources, locally and nationally.
Provide the opportunity to meet other parents and create a support network.
Provide the opportunity to explore specific topics e.g. supporting siblings; Puberty, sexual wellbeing & relationships; Sleep
Barnardo’s have developed the Cygnet in partnership with young people, parents and practitioners to enable a variety of organisations to deliver programmes under license to parents in their locality.
To find the nearest programme provider to you put in your postcode to find relevant contact details. Please note that each organisation will have its own referral criteria, particularly related to geography, diagnosis and age.
Read frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for email cygnet@barnardos.org.uk or phone 07596 569702 Mon – Wed or 07729 116214 Thurs
This is because it has historically followed on from the NAS Early Bird Programme for under 5’s. Hence we are following the bird theme.
The core Cygnet programme is delivered over seven two and a half to three-hour sessions which include:
Some organisations will also deliver additional sessions on
Unless agreed with Barnardo’s Cygnet should be delivered to parents and carers at no cost.
For most providers this will form part of their referral criteria but there may be some exceptional circumstances where this is not the case. Your nearest provider will be able to provide you with this information.
Feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive as well as independent evaluations by Northumbria and York Universities.