Cygnet Parenting Support Programme

A parenting support programme for parents and carers of autistic children and young people aged 5-18.

Parents of autistic children  face the usual positive and difficult challenges of parenting and quite a few more. Attending Cygnet gives parents and carers an opportunity to develop their understanding of autism and look at practical solutions 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.

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Cygnet Providers

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What can I get out of Cygnet?

Increased knowledge of Autism.

Further, understand your child’s perspective and view on the world.

Develop a practical toolkit 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.

Parents feedback

Testimonials

The Cygnet Parenting programme really helped me deal with Q’s behaviour and gave me coping strategies. I am now able to take Q out in public without being in fear of a major tantrum and having people judge me in how I deal with his behaviour

- (Parent attending Cygnet in Kent)

I know at the beginning of the course I wasn’t very positive and thought its wasn’t going to make a difference but it has, massively. I can now see a light at the end of the tunnel and feel so much more confident in dealing with ‘my son’. You have helped our family so much!

- (Parent attending Cygnet in Hampshire)

Cygnet didn’t change our autistic child, but it changed the way we understand and support our autistic child

- (Parents attending Cygnet in Grimsby)

As a trainer and parent of a child with Autism myself, I have really enjoyed seeing the progression the parents have made from the start of the course to the final session. Lots of emotions from parents including acceptance, relief, understanding and empathy.

- (Parent facilitator in Lancaster)

How can I access the Cygnet programme

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.

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Questions?

Read frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for email cygnet@barnardos.org.uk or phone 01274 513300

01

Why is it called Cygnet?

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.

02

What does Cygnet cover?

The core Cygnet programme is delivered over seven two and a half to three-hour sessions which include:

  • Introductory session
  • Autism an overview
  • Sensory needs
  • Communication
  • Understanding behaviour
  • Supporting behaviour
  • Choice decided by parents/carers.

Some organisations will also deliver additional sessions on

  • Supporting Siblings
  • Puberty, sexual wellbeing & relationships

03

How much does it cost?

Unless agreed with Barnardo’s Cygnet should be delivered to parents at no cost.

04

How many parents are in a group?

There should be no more than 12.

05

Where do groups run and how often?

This will be decided by your provider.

06

Does my child have to have a diagnosis of autism for me to access a group?

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.

07

How do I know that Cygnet will be beneficial to me?

Feedback from parents is overwhelmingly positive as well as independent evaluations by Northumbria and York Universities.

08

How can I give feedback about the delivery of a Cygnet programme in my area?

Either contact your local provider directly or contact Barnardo’s on the email and contact number provided.